Over the last four days the Democrat's have convened in Denver and we have seen the first African-American nominated to a major political party. This candidate, Barack Obama, is not just a figurehead of some racial equality movement, but a qualified individual who is leading in the polls. Obama accepted the nomination 45 years after Martin Luther King delivered his "I have a Dream Speech". Whether or not this was a symbolic gesture, I am not completely sure; but as you listened to the words of his near 1 hour speech you came to realize you were experiencing a historic moment. For those of us who have seen the devastation brought on by the Bush Administration over the last eight years we finally saw a beacon of light last night. Not only does Barack Obama offer hope for a nation heading in the wrong direction, he represents the fulfillment of a true American Dream; A dream where a mixed raced child raised with no Father and living on Food Stamps attended two of the most prestigious Universities in the world and went on to be editor of the Harvard law review, Professor at the University of Chicago while subsequently representing and assisting the disenfranchised peoples of the South Side of Chicago. In a nation that has historically disadvantaged those outside of the WASP classification, Barack Obama has shown that diligence and audacity mixed with his true vision and intelligence can overcome all barriers.
I enjoyed watching and was inspired by the convention. On Monday night Michelle Obama showed her true colors as a loving mother and wife, with true poise and intelligence. An accomplished Ivy-league graduate and former Associate Dean of the prestigious University of Chicago, Michelle makes McCains "mistress-wife" Cindy appear laughable. All former caricatures of a radical race activist ala Black Panthers was quickly eliminated.
Tuesday night brought forth Hillary Clinton where she addressed a crowd which contained some former supporters still upset over what they viewed as an unfair primary campaign. All of the pundits were watching to see non-verbal cues of Hillary Clintons "true intentions" as she addressed the delegation. Many felt that she did not truly support Obama and is instead preparing for her 2012 run on the hopes of an Obama loss. Despite such presumptions, Clinton pulled off a powerful convincing speech that should have swayed even the most discontent of her supporters. She properly pointed out to her supporters that they did not just vote for her gender but for her ideals...therefore if they followed her true beliefs from the beginning they would now be...as her...supporting Barack Obama. While there were some overshadowing discussions of scorned Clintons and the possibility of them 'stealing' the show, it was none of the sort. The Clintons were gracious and supportive and I saw not one non-verbal clue showing that there was any personal doubt in their words being delivered.
Now to the big speech.....admittedly I originally had doubts over Obama....I was a proud Clinton supporter. However, unlike some vengeful Clinton supporters I immediately threw my support behind Obama when it became clear Clinton would not receive the nomination. Clinton said it best during campaign season when she noted that the differences between her and Obama pale in comparison to the differences between herself and McCain....now to the Obama speech.....so perhaps as a Democrat and Obama supporter I am a smidge bias, nonetheless, Thursday Night's acceptance speech was utterly awe-inspiring. Republicans have continuously pointed out flaws in Obamas rhetoric, saying it's unsubstantiated ideas that have no way of being achieved. He pointed out everything he planned to do, and how it would be accomplished. He catered to nearly every type of Democrat, Independent and even liberal Republicans. He noted the importance of gender equality including equal pay, 2nd amendment rights yet smart gun control, security yet responsible foreign policy. I don't know if I can even put into words how exquisite this speech was. He addressed every weakness he has been accused of and easily refuted those claims (i.e he will raise taxes, has no experience, no foreign policy knowledge) in addition he tactfully reminded us of all the mistakes of the last 8 years and that Mccain will only be a continuation of it. Furthermore, he countered the concept that McCain equates to change...if McCain has voted with Bush 90% of the time do you want someone who only offers a 10% chance of change? Well said Obama....
If Obama doe's not win this election I will be ashamed of America for once again falling for traditional Republican attack tactics. Obama not just showed his oratorical skills last night, he presented perhaps the best political speech since the one 45 years ago to the day by none other than Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
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