Barack Obama's speech about race, in response to comments made by his pastor, Jeremiah Wright, and Hillary's Clinton's staff member, Geraldine Ferraro, was needed if only to show Americans the character of the man they may elect in November. Unlike others in the media, I hesitate to call this speech "historic." The speech itself will not change how many think about race or how the media report about it. But it draws a stark contrast between Barack Obama and other politicians in regards to how they respond to criticism and attacks. While others will strike back or immediately denounce lifelong friends based on a few comments made, Barack again showed his better judgment and ability to forgive people for their faults and accept them as friends despite their failings. Apparently what he learned in church went beyond Wright's animosity toward those who persecuted African Americans. Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.
Beyond the content of the speech that shows Obama's ability to rise above the mud-slinging of Washington, he delivers it in such a way that you feel as if you're sitting with him in your living room having a discussion. An intelligent discussion. Perhaps it will be his ability to seem approachable that will appeal to voters. After all, many said they voted for Bush because he seemed like a "guy they could have a beer with." But after the beer is gone, it's nice to know that Obama won't denounce you the following day for getting on stage and singing kareoke.
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