I would be remiss not to dedicate this issue’s editorial to President-elect Barack Obama. As many others, I was ecstatic when I heard the news reporter across the screen announce Barack Obama had won the presidential race and will become the United States of America’s first African-American president. An immediate, overwhelming joy filled my spirit as I fought back tears of memories, pride, and hope. The surreal moment made me grateful to be alive to witness the day, November 4, 2008.

I shared my excitement with many others who either felt like I did or were disappointed. But one gentleman’s disappointment made me realize why this election was important, and why Barack Obama is the best man for the job. When I expressed my pleasure at Obama winning the race, this man, who is Black himself, asked if I only voted for him because of his race. He asked that question with discontent and went on to say, sarcastically, “Did you even do your research on Obama before voting for him?”

At first, I was taken aback by his comments and mostly his tone. I was sure another Black man would be happy that a fellow Black man had won the race. However, this was not the case. He was upset that Obama had won the popular vote and election, and thought he did based on the mere fact of his race. Quickly, I gathered my thoughts and began to communicate my position.

In essence, my response was this: “Not once did I let color transcend the issues that I cared about most in this presidential election. Indeed, I did my research. I researched all of Obama’s policies and what he stood for. His health, education, economic, and war policies were more aligned with what I believe in than his opponent’s. In addition, I thought he ran the best campaign I’ve seen since I’ve been alive. It was flawless in galvanizing people of all colors and ages to get out and vote and believe that they can make a difference in politics. It crossed all multicultural and multigenerational boundaries and was inclusive of everyone. Because of this man’s charisma, honesty, intelligence, calmness in nature, and ability to lead and inspire, like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Nelson Mandela, I would have voted for him if he were any other color than Black. Barack Obama earned my vote because he is best qualified to do the job.”

As Obama’s inauguration date draws near, I pray that all those who reside in our country rally behind our new leader of the free world. I pray that we support his endeavors and aid in his success. I pray for the safety of him and his family, and that he leads America to a place where our past Black leaders tried so earnestly to take us. But, the onus is not only on Barack Obama, but all of us who make up the 50 states of America. ¶