It’s really worth listening to:
And here is a bloggingheads response:
These are two of the best discussions about race I’ve heard in a long time. Like you probably do, I loathe the media’s inability to recognize the depth, importance and fragility of these ideas, and their tendency is to place new ideas into the old ideas (and such partisan ideas at that).
Then again, it’s not wise to expect much more than that from major outlets.
Obama has dug deep, taken great risk and been very honest, so honest, in fact, it’s a little unnerving. I may not agree with what policy plans he has put foward, nor even vote for him, but I admire him.
Addition: Ross Douthat at the Atlantic has a piece from the conservative point of view.
I agree with Obama’s speech; his speech is like most Black ministers. There is nothing unusual about Wright’s sermon, also. Being Black and in America, I have the realization of racism. Our ministers/pastors keep us informed and up to date of the injustices of racism; racism is ugly and spreads like a cancer. Not only do our pastors keep us informed as far as racism, they make sure we, as a congregation, come full grips with love, righteousness, empathy, and understanding for “all” people.
Comment by Victoria Patton — March 26, 2008 @ 2:28 pm
Victoria,
Thanks for reading.
I agree that racism is deep, and widespread, but also would like to point out that its sometimes embraced by blacks in response to the constant stream of pre-judgment and racism that comes from whites. Obama points out the limits to racist thinking in general with his depth and honesty.
The way I see it, Obama stuck his neck out and tried to appeal to those who don’t have any time for what they see only as anti-nationalist, bitter racist rhetoric in black churches(but have little understanding of where it comes from).
So, it may cost him politically, but under pressure, he’s staying true to his commitment to his wife, pastor and the black community…but mostly staying true to thinking and acting honestly.
It’s for voters to decide if they want him as the Democratic candidate, and maybe President…
Comment by chr1 — March 26, 2008 @ 5:21 pm