The old saying, "There is nothing to fear, but Fear itself" should be amended to state, "There is nothing to fear, but Fear of a black man in charge". Many people in these tumultuous times would concur I'm sure. The question I put forth begs to understand: what is this fear when considering Senator Obama (the 'Other') in a position of great power? It is only fitting that I should attempt an answer within the context of Othello.
As the Other, Othello was feared because of his difference; namely his skin tone. While he professed in his address to the Senators that his speech was "rough", he was articulate. His military expertise was highly valued and gloriously utilized by the country. And yet, Othello's relationship with Desdemona was a source of intense consternation to her father, and his authority and judgment were despised and envied by Iago.
In regard to Obama, or any other black in America, it is highly evident that this man is just as capable of running this country as any white man. Throughout American history, many blacks (male and female alike) have more than dispelled the various myths which early on abounded regarding the supposed inferiority of blacks. Countless blacks have excelled in the fields of medicine, military, education, business/finance, athletics, etc. And yet, the fear remains.
Obama's intellect is unquestionable. His ambition falls in line with that of any white male of his stature. The only obvious, yet highly illogical, reason to fear Obama's possible leadership of these supposed United States would be his skin color.
His skin represents a drastic change; a magnanimous shift in the assumption of just who is to have ultimate control in America. This nation was not founded by black and white men together, unified in the fight against oppressive English domination and manipulation. This nation was not constructed by the collective idealism of black and white men together, unified in the pursuit of freedom of idea, religious belief, and prosperity. White men started it and by God, they're supposed to be in charge of it regardless of the numerous sacrifices, contributions, and advancements of every marginalized Other who has tread the soil of this land. What a crock!
The bottom line - Obama's skin, like Othello's, represents the Fear; the fear that many in white society would be hard pressed to ignore. He would be the "head N***** in charge". He would be calling the shots and passing the laws. So are they afraid that there will be a Chicken and Waffle House and a liquor store on every suburban street corner? Are they afraid that he'll pass a national law requiring all black men to have their way with pure, virginal white girls? Are they afraid that the National Anthem will be rewritten into a rap? Of course, if any would think these far-fetched suppositions, then they are resoundingly ignorant; PERIOD.
Obama has, in numerous declarations and presentations, stated his intentions as president of this country and while he may not achieve them all, they are far from involving liquor stores or rap music, and echo the dreams and aspirations of any white male Democrat in pursuit of the highest office of this land. That said, I ask again , what is this Fear of a black President of the United States of America? Or of a woman? Or of a Jew? Or of any other aptly qualified Other who has assisted in the growth, development, and maintenance of this nation? Is white-protestant-male dominance so perfect and great that none Other can match or succeed it? Perhaps if I were steeped in an illogical irrationality of the persistence of ignorance, priviledge, and tradition I'd understand. Thank goodness I'm not.
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2 comments:
Great post that supports Loomba's argument that the "nation" is constructed mainly through Othering. It's interesting that despite Mr. Obama's obvious qualifications, he is still constructed in the media as the Other. We need to talk about this issue on Wednesday. Bring it up.
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