When I heard that close to 95 % Afro-Americans voted for Obama, the question that crossed my mind was this, "Is this not racism?". For the record, close to 55% of whites voted for McCain. There will be more pointing fingers at those 55% of whites than the 95%.
Argument - 1
People may argue that Afro-Americans were oppressed for years and still are victims of racism. So when they had the opportunity to protest racism they voted to Obama. Hence it is not racism but more of righting a wrong.
Argument - 2
When someone chooses to vote to a person because he is from their race, irrespective of the merit, then it's got to be racism.
Argument - 3
We needn't see it from the racist angle. Obama is the right candidate and hence voted for.
Argument - 4
Yes, it is racism but so be it. For ages we have suffered racism and here is an opportunity that we don't want to let go.
Argument 1 & 4 are same things with different attitudes. Argument 2 sounds more valid while Argument 3 doesn't convince, unless empirical study supports such a huge support to one party by one section of people, based upon a candidate's credential.
To the naked eye, it is racism. But then could it be any different any where in the world, in different times and even with different races? I am afraid it won't be any different. It is natural of oppressed communities to stand behind their men when one of them rises to the limelight. It is racism yet expected and some what accepted. No white men were jumping on the streets to condemn it. There could be secret circles sulking, as one rumour on the net claimed, but there is none in the public. At least 45% of whites who voted for Obama are okay with it.
I do not know whether racism still exists in America but can be reasonably sure that Afro-Americans are no more an oppressed community in America. Other wise Obama could not have risen to the top in such a short span. I wish he serves the United States of America as a competent and successful president than as an Afro-American President. He has lot at stake. He has to tread a finer path. He could be mistaken easily. But he has nothing to worry as long as he is genuine.
Looking forward to an American President election where 90% Afro Americans vote for a white candidate, defeating an Afro American candidate. That will be the day of true victory for American democracy and there won't be Afro or White Americans on that day. There will just be Americans.
