During this weekend and the beginning of the week, I had seen a lot of Photoshop pictures of President Obama and Dr. Martin Luther King together. As we all know, Dr. King fought for justice for all and equality for African Americans. Many would say that Mr. President would be the ultimate reflection of the dream that Dr. King spoke on during his most well known speech.
President Obama's most recent inauguration, which also happened to be on MLK day has left a sour taste in someone's mouth. Specifically Dr. Cornell West. (Dr. West is an well known activist, philosopher, and author in the African American community. Almost comparable to Al Sharpton but in my personal opinion a lot smarter, cooler, and fashionable)
The reason why Dr. West is upset during this inauguration week when most have been enjoying the music and festivities could seem really minute to some. While taking the Presidential Oath and swearing, Obama placed his hand on Dr. King's Bible.
In this video, Dr.West explains his reasoning for why this action has left his blood boiling. I decided to post a blog because I want to know your opinion after hearing his. Do you think his reasoning for being upset has validity?
I have always enjoyed listening to Dr. West. He always is clear in his speech and very charismatic. I believe that Dr. West does have a reason for being upset. He is upset because it feels like a token gesture to the Civil Rights Movement and to Dr. Martian Luther King Jr. In defense to Obama though, traditionally the inauguration happens on the 20th of January, except if it falls on a Sunday. If it falls on the Sunday, the inauguration happens on the 21st. I would rather a nod be Dr. King, even if it just political in nature, than none at all though.
ReplyDeleteMe personally, I think the biggest issue goes beyond the bible but what it symbolizes. Dr. King felt so strongly about his beliefs that he died for them, and for them to some what be used as a token for inauguration seems offensive. I myself, did not feel offended in the beginning. After I reflected, I took into consideration my grandmother, and her mother, and the things that they had to go through.
DeleteLife, and perception coexist on a parallel line. Dr. West has seen things, that I believe gives his due conviction to be upset. You cant preach CHANGE and not really make huge sacrifices, then use the bible of one of a man who has been known to die for it.
I completely agree with you. I got out of politics because I hate the money, the back door politicking, and the empty politic gestures. But as I see it, sometimes you are screwed if you do and screwed if you don't. Some people liked the gesture and others did not. I was more interested in Biden being sworn in by Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor who is the first Hispanic in American history to administer an oath of office. I know some people will see this as a gesture, but others loved it.
DeleteI think what it boils down to is what Eleanor Roosevelt said, “Sometimes I wonder if we shall ever grow up in our politics and say definite things which mean something, or whether we shall always go on using generalities to which everyone can subscribe, and which mean very little.”