Halls Of Power

 When we think of black history, we often think of the civil rights movement, John Brown's violent protests, the Underground Railroad.  But dark history does not end with a single event.  It is produced continuously every day.

  Even in the last ten years, there have been great advances in the highest government positions thanks to remarkable and highly skilled black Americans who make us all proud of how they contribute to America.  Colin Powell was an excellent general who demonstrated with quiet dignity and authority that he could lead many men into battle.  He was rewarded for his heroic efforts, eventually rising to the highest positions in government, serving as President Bush's Secretary of State in his first administration.  In all the halls of government and wherever Secretary Powell served, he was treated with the same respect that he deserved after Powell's distinguished service to serve his country so well.  A black woman named Rice.  It was a proud day when she walked into that office and showed how far America has come from the days when blacks couldn't eat in the same restaurant as whites.is preparing to be considered for the very highest office of President of the United States.  And as with General Powell and Dr. Rice, Barack Obama will not be understood as a black man or in the context of the racial struggle in this country.  He is already admired and admired for his leadership, eloquence and ability to bring a new vision to this country.  It was a proud day for all black America that Barack Obama was considered for this position.  He has to work hard and be tested on his abilities, skills, experience and leadership ability.  But it is a testament to how far the country has come that he has as good a chance of winning this election as any other candidate.  And if he wins, he'll remove another barrier against black people, and kids in the African-American community will be able to say, 'I can't do anything if I try hard.'  And that is the vision that every civil rights leader since the Civil War has wanted for black people in America.