In the new “Obamerica” how will we respond? Can we expect to “cash the check” of economic justice? What, if anything, will this “phenomenon” teach us? With an African American president-elect and democrat majorities in the House and Senate will Black America demand and defend an actual agenda? Will all “progressives” – who clearly will not develop politial parties to act on their claimed principles – now move to pressure the new and developing Obama administration? Perhaps we can begin by simply encouraging that this new day new deal begin with support for the Employee Free Choice Act where the right of workers to unionize will be protected, expanded and guaranteed. Perhaps now we will see new support for movements wanting to abolish the prison industrial complex. It is now the time for those supporting mainstream politics to meet the burden of proof that these are the politics of real change.
A Discussion: On November 5, 2008 in Richmond, VA community members, activists, scholars and artists gathered to discuss issues of agenda and movement-building in an Obama era. The panel featured Dhoruba Bin Wahad, Sa’ad El-Amin, Ana Edwards, Mark Bolden and Jared Ball. The gathering was convened by Dr. Shawn Utsey of the African American Studies department at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Part 1:
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Part 2:
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I appreciate Dr. Shawn Utsey for his forethought and courage to host such a necessary and timely panel discussion. And I appreciate each of the panelists courage, deep reflection, and passionate contributions. When will we hear Part @?!
I think the Obama election has given us yet another opportunity to capitalize on newly-generated energy and momentum toward revolution. Our Black youth continue to show that they are ready to be directed and guided in any direction. I think it is up to those of us that share in the like-minds of the panelists and the host to do the work to direct and move them in a more genuine, productive and liberatory direction.
I have never been more proud of the work the folks behind Voxunion.com are doing.
Great convo!