President Obama promised to bring change to America. Everyone who voted for him believed that he would bring change. We clung to his promises. Now after only 18 months in office, many Obama supporters are disenchanted that the change they anticipated has not come. Has President Obama reneged on his promise of change? The short answer is no.
President Obama knew it would be an uphill battle to effectuate change. Although, even he may not have foreseen the degree of difficulty for change. Sara Palin questioned Obama supporters at a speech in February, 2010 about how’s that hopey dopey change working for you. Sara Palin and others, including Obama supporters who expect an overnight overhaul of our system, are in for a bumpy ride. Melissa Harris Lacewell says you might also want to take a civics 101 lesson along with the ride. For those expecting immediate change, please take note that our political and electoral process is neither swift nor speedy.
Years ago, I learned a lesson from my mother who tirelessly worked in local community politics to improve our community in Baltimore. She fought to make changes in the Park Heights community of Baltimore. Small changes were relatively easy to come by. Yet, larger ones like building a healthcare center took years. No one can wave a magic wand and make sweeping change over night. That applies to President Obama, too.
Many young voters and older ones that are new to the electoral and political process expect instant change. Our system doesn’t quite work that way. I urge those voters to pledge to do more than cast a vote. Often times, we hear complaints that I cast my vote and nothing changed. I challenge those persons, who are becoming disenchanted with the pace of change and President Obama’s commitment, to get involved in an organization. I challenge you to take action in an organization on the local, state or national level that supports your cause. Voice your opinion but also take action. In the words and lyrics of Michael Jackson, if you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and make a change. That’s how change comes about.
Debbie Hines blogs on race, law, women and politics. Please click on Res Ipsa Loquitur for the Best of Legalspeaks.
White House photo courtesy of Pete Souza.
home jobs says
President Obama have a lot of work. but he can’t forget promise. i am sorer bring change to America.