Wow! Last night Michelle and I watched Obama’s victory speech in South Carolina. Wow! I felt like I was in church. His words stimulated my thought and soul in a deep way. It moved me to tears, literally. I must admit that I am getting a bit tired of critics who assume that he is just about rhetorical flare. First of all, what is wrong with good, hope-inspiring rhetoric? Would that all of our country’s leaders could speak in such a way that a nation could be stirred. Second, I believe that he is speaking effectively to a generation who is still finding its way past post-civil rights racial discourse. This form of speech (and life) is not motivated by the same thought patterns of the previous generations. It is not ignorant or naïve about race. It is hopeful. It rejects cynicism. It is speech that is willing to act and willing to do the hard work necessary to accomplish its ideals. It is the “audacity of hope.” I am believer not just because I like Obama—and I do like Obama—but because supporting him actually gives me hope that I’m doing something right with my political voice.
Posted by Frank Yamada at January 27, 2008 09:45 PM