Celebrating Black History Month: Barack Obama

Posted on February 16th, 2012

It’s February, the month where we celebrate conversation. It’s a month where we make the effort to talk about the people and events that have shaped who we are and who we hope to be. Some people might think this month is unnecessary. Well, I think good conversation is always necessary.

We can’t talk about Black History Month without talking about Barack Obama. The name alone strikes diverse reactions and heated opinions. Has he been a disappointment? Is he still the Great Hope he convinced the world he was during his campaign five years ago? Well, the Obama campaign has released a video that has quickly gone viral. It’s a video that reminds us that in spite of his faults, Barack Obama is a historical icon who inspired not just his country, but the world, to believe in change. Obama’s inauguration was arguably one of the greatest moments in black history so it’s seems fitting to relive that magical moment this month.

This video reminds us that Obama’s influence has spread beyond race, religion or sexual orientation. That’s what this month is about. It’s not just about remembering black figures but realizing what those people did to bring us all closer together, to remind us that we are one people.

As an African Canadian, just the thought of the most important political figure in the world as a black man gives me a weird sense of calm. In a climate where Twitter and YouTube comments seem to consist too frequently of racial ignorance, I think of Barack and I remember that we’re in 2012 and there’s a black president of the United States of America. We’re in 2012 and the basketball playing, Al Green singing, Arcade Fire loving politician has gained worldwide, universal appeal. Thanks Barack for reminding us that, yes, WE CAN.