God Bless America - Viewpoint by Mr.
Vibert Parvatan - November 13, 2008
- Vibert
Parvatan: Profile
The
Presidential Elections in the United States of America 2008
stimulated worldwide interest, provoked debates, arguments and
conflicting expectations in the pre-election period. At an
early stage it was generally recognized that the Presidential
Elections would be one of historical significance with the
potential to bring about many changes.
However, the most significant change in the political landscape of the USA
which surfaced was the emergence of Mr. Barack Obama, a non
white American from a minority group emerging as the first
African American to represent the Democratic Party in the
Presidential contest. At that stage, it was already obvious
that the traditional status quo was giving way to major changes
in the socio political framework of the USA.
America has always been regarded as the land of opportunity. Many Guyanese
who arrived in the States with very little to show, would attest
that their achievements academically and financially were
attributed to the USA providing a platform for those who are
prepared to set goals; to strive to achieve those goals; and
grasp the opportunities.
Many descriptive terms are used to portray what the USA symbolizes.
Some writers speak of democracy and the rule of law as great
attributes. Some speak of its military strength being the only
super power. Others speak of the employment and educational
opportunities. However, there has been a history of racial
division particularly exhibited by some groups which encourage
discrimination.
With that backdrop, many observers may have envisaged that it was
impractical for an African-American to win the Presidential
elections in the USA, to hold the highest office in the land and
have the most powerful position in our world.
That Mr. Barack Obama clearly won the Presidential Elections is an
obvious signal that the American people have lifted their
country to a higher level in which greater meaning is brought to
such words as equality, freedom and liberty.
The Presidential Elections of the USA have wonderful lessons for
many other countries. Lessons which can bring about greater
objectivity, with focus on programmes, plans and fundamental
issues rather than blind affinity, racial cleavages and
jaundiced emotions which are obvious in some countries. Let
freedom lovers of the world try to understand the pride and joy
which the Americans must feel in their people rising above
racial politics.
Had not white Americans supported Mr. Obama, victory at the polls could
not have been his. Congratulations to the American people. It
is a positive step forward in the advancement of the people of
America and for America as a Nation.
Other apparent lessons in which political leaders, political
aspirants, include that quality of magnanimity which quickly
replaces political fighting when the contest is over.
Look at the Hilary Clinton/Barack Obama relationship after he defeated her
to be the Democratic Party's presidential candidate. In many
lands, they would have been enemies for the rest of their
lives.
Observe the meeting between President Bush and President elect Barack Obama.
Mr. Obama attacked George Bush in every speech, yet as two
mature people regarding the country's national interest as being
more important than their personal egos, they met. Their wives
embraced each other. They exchanged their views in a cordial,
polite and gracious manner. This is another lesson for many
countries wherein enmity flourishes.
Let us look at another lesson, Mr. John McCain's speech conceding defeat; He
paid compliments to Mr. Obama and immediately pledged his
support in the challenging task of nation building.
Another lesson would be in the statement made by President Elect Mr.
Obama (obviously intended to unite people) that he will be
President for all Americans.
Mr. Obama's life should certainly be a lesson and inspiration to many young people who so
often live in the past and who are inclined to blame others
including history for their failures.
The Presidential Elections debates were useful. It gave viewers an
opportunity to look at leadership styles and to identify how
these contestants proposed to deal with issues affecting their
lives. Will such debates be relevant to other countries? I
would say yes.
I join with well wishers and admirers of the USA in congratulating the
electorate and President Elect Barack Obama and wishing all
Americans, the country and its leaders continued progress in
strengthening the social fabric of the nation. We wish the
President Elect and his team success in rebuilding the economy
and enhancing the image of America in every land.
THE AMERICAN
DREAM AND SPIRIT ARE KEPT ALIVE. AMERICA MARCHES ON CONFIDENTLY
AND UNITED AS A PEOPLE INTO THE FUTURE. GOD BLESS AMERICA AND
ITS PEOPLE!!
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