Obama, Race and the Future of US Politics
Barack Obama's victory is indeed an historic breakthrough for US politics. In a country that enforced a system of legalized racism until just 40 years ago, and that was founded on white supremacy, Black slavery and Native genocide, the election of the first Black president is cause for jubilation.
Off and Running: Opportunity of a Lifetime
I was standing on the Washington Mall on Inauguration Day, alongside nearly two million other people on Inauguration Day, and proudly watched the first African American take the oath of office in our nation’s history.
Support for Stimulus Bill Heats Up
Capitol Hill telephone lines have lit up. Tens of thousands of voters across the country have been calling their US Senators demanding passage of President Obama's economic recovery package without any more delays.
Our Responsibility Regarding the Bush Era
The Obama era began in earnest last week, with bold action such as closing the Guantanamo Bay prison camp and promising to end torture. In its very first days, the new administration has begun to lift the veil of secrecy surrounding executive branch operations, and has made great strides forward.
Time to Set Okinawa Free
It’s way past time for the US to get out of Okinawa – and, for that matter, to take its Tokyo good buddies with it. Before Japanese warlords annexed the Ryuku islands in 1879, Okinawans enjoyed more freedom than they do today.
