Changing the Complexion of the Presidency

What If Obama Wins?

From Black Power Radical Politics and African American Identity by Jeffrey O.G. Ogbar, “The two most significant organizations in the Black Power movement, The Nation of Islam and the Black Panther Party- though by no means the only important organizations leading to the rise of radicalized black nationalist discourse, symbolism, and activity of the 1960s- were essential in shaping the contours of the Black Power era. This book has built on this thesis and grows around this interpretive framework, while also giving attention to other organizations. The rise of radical politics and African American identity owe a great deal and may have been inextricably tied to the Nation and the Panthers.”

Assuming the above is accurate, and it seems easy to do so, we might be able to extrapolate some influences on the “New President's” thinking and direction for the country. We've heard ad infinitum about Reverend Jeremiah Wright. From his harsh rhetoric we can establish that he has a parallel agreement with the rantings of Louis Farrakan, leader of the Nation of Islam. He even awarded him a lifetime achievement award. So called “black liberation theology” pioneered by Wright seems to parrot the Nation of Islam's separatist persuasion, but it was conveniently stripped from the website of his church. Obama has tried to distance himself from Rev. Wright, but considering their lengthy association, can anyone really think that the private telephone in the oval office will not have participation by both?

If a lasting relationship with Rev. Jeremiah Wright, including being a 20 year member of his church, basically was to endear Obama's presence and bona fides in the black side of his birthright, what has he done to ingratiate himself to the liberal stalwarts. Well, at least locally in Chicago, it has been to maintain a “friendship” with William Ayers and his wife, Bernadine Dohm. With this couple's current positions it might not flag danger. However, we must look to some of their history. They were once active members in the Weather Underground. This organization was linked to bombings in the United States in the 1960s and only by improper FBI surveillance were they not tried for related charges. If this, even limited fraternization, is a test of judgement, it appears to be a failing grade. Will they perhaps be on a conference call with Wright and the “New President”?

Of course, the guesses can be endless of who might also be in on these lively conversations. Should we include Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson and Obama's wife, Michelle? Will Senator Mitch McConnell and Senator Jim Inhofe be in the loop? Will they be on separate calls or all on one, as candidate Obama has promised all inclusiveness? We really don't have a clue at this point. That scares the hell out of some of us!

Mark Harris