If you live in the United States, you should read this, or better yet, watch it. If you live in Memphis, you should read it and watch it.
Barack Obama’s speech on race in America today was quite simply the most important speech on the subject since the death of Dr. Martin Luther King in Memphis, 40 years ago next month.
I urge you to put aside any preconceptions, to forget that the speech is being made by a candidate for president. Forget about whether he is Republican or Democrat. Take it in as you would a lecture from a gifted professor or a sermon from the pulpit. I urge you to simply think about the content — and rejoice in the very idea that a modern politician is capable of such a thoughtful and brave speech.
For the record, my opinions do not reflect the official stance of the Memphis Flyer — only my opinion. Now read it or watch it. Please.
–Bruce VanWyngarden
