Amen. As a white person, I can say that President Obama has had several effects on white America and race relations. First and foremost, he obviously shattered the barrier — and did so in a way that will make it Much easier for the next black candidate. He showed white America that we can not only survive but thrive under a black commander-in-chief. In fact, I and every liberal I know would give anything to elect him again instead of the current options; we’d also be very happy with Michelle!
The other effect has had both pluses and minuses. Racism went a little under cover after the turbulent 60’s; it became more subtle and less discussed. As affirmative action hit, the world became somewhat more integrated, more blacks showed up in corporate America, etc., white America relaxed a bit. Otherwise good people weren’t forced to confront their own racism — would indeed be shocked to discover this side of themselves. All of this changed with his election, bringing the issue back to the forefront. Seriously racist people felt comfortable spewing their hatred. Otherwise good people have had to ponder their beliefs, and it hasn’t been pretty.
The short term result has been rough, more so for blacks, of course. Obama, as you note, couldn’t be as supportive as he probably wished to be, given that he represents the entire country. Ultimately though, I think — I hope — that resurfacing the issue will be better for race relations. White people had to realize that there was more to fixing the problem than throwing money at it and ignoring all the rest. Is it painful? Certainly. But we can’t fix something most people aren’t talking or even thinking about.
Racism has been a stain on our country for hundreds of years and we won’t solve it in our lifetime. We are making strides, but for every couple of steps forward there’s a step back. Hillary is a pragmatist and she’s not the towering figure that Obama is, but I do think she is equality minded and I’m hopeful that things will continue to move forward if she’s elected. If Trump is, God help us all. As a side note — it’s not getting enough press, but the three top positions in the DNC are now held by black women! Every little bit…although not fast enough, I know.
