There are two political races that, for me, are a barometer for the state of racism in America. DeVal Patrick for Governor of the State of Massachusetts a blue state and Representative Harold Ford Jr. for Senator of the State of Tennessee traditionally a red state. Both are democrats, African Americans and highly qualified for the positions that they are seeking. They are proven, intelligent, sensible, trustworthy leaders who will make a difference.
Clearly the obstacles are significant but, as of this writing they are ahead in the polls. But as one political advisor told me, when it comes to African American candidates, it is politically correct to say that you’ll vote for them, but when the curtain closes people generally vote their heart, which tends not to be for the Black candidate.
Well, things are changing (or we hope they are) in America and I strongly believe the candidate that demonstrates a commitment to making a difference will win. Both Patrick and Ford have demonstrated that they can and will make a difference. However, it would be a shamed if that political advisor is correct. If they win, will it mean that Americans have moved on, regarding race? Or if they lose, does it mean that, that political consultant is right and we’re stuck in this nasty maze of racism?
I, for one, say we’ve moved forward. It is not the color of your skin, but your ability to have a positive impact on the lives of Americans, resolve the war, fix our health care system, improve our education system, deal with crime and insure that people are working, just to name a few.
So, if you are in the key boards shout of this computer and are committed to an America as the founding fathers intended, then do what you can to elect these two individuals.