Senator Obama: Inspiration and Irony

May 8, 2007

I was simultaneously excited and dismayed when I learned that Senator Obama is receiving protection from the Secret Service. I was excited because I was reminded of the first season of the hit show 24, where the character, Senator David Palmer was on the campaign trail to become the first Black president. (Yes, he ended up winning)

On a more serious note though, I was dismayed because of the symbolic irony. Senator Obama raised $25 million dollars and boom, an elite Secret Service detail. But when I think about Black men in America, we are not safe from the government in the form of Driving While Black, higher insurance rates, inadequate health care, under funded schools, poor infrastructure, and in some cases, Breathing While Black.

I am thankful for the extra protection provided to Senator Obama and his family. I pray for his safety in his comings and his goings. Nevertheless, what does it take for a Black man in America to get basic protection from the government? Is the irony just lost on me?

Stay up fam,

Brandon Q.

Posted by Brandon Q.
Filed Under Issues and Politics
Tags: Barack Obama, Black Issues, Black Men, Government, Race