CS MONITOR: A new discourse is emerging in France and Europe that urges a focus on ability – rather than on race or skin.
PARIS AND FRANKFURT - The election of Barack Obama may have revolutionized the world's view of America. But for Africans and Arabs in Europe, he is much more – a liberator figure whose success and social mobility will help them one day crack open the closed doors of European politics.
In Paris's black neighborhoods, in the barber shops, the African boutiques, the crowded bus stops, the groceries, President-elect Obama's election is felt deeply and personally – creating a sense that it is time to push for more.
"Obama has restored belief in the American dream," says Pap Ndiaye, who is with the School for the Advanced Study of the Social Sciences in Paris. "But his election also has a direct social effect in France, because the black youth think it is possible there [in the US] but not here.
"Obama puts the political system in France on the hot seat," he adds. "Structures that are closed are being looked at, and it is time for that."
Few Europeans believe it possible anytime soon for a minority to be elected to high office in their countries. The Obama example highlights a sharp contrast between the ideals and the reality of what a young African or Arab in Europe can hope for as a participant in politics.
Obama's rise created a new discourse focused on ability here – rather than on race or skin as a rationale for change. >>> By Robert Marquand, Staff Writer | November 7, 2008
ISLAM ONLINE: US Muslims See Hope in Obama
WASHINGTON — The majority of American Muslims is believed to have voted for Barak Obama as the new president.
IslamOnline.net has interviewed several Muslims, including community leaders, on what issues should top the agenda of President Obama and the domestic and international implications of his election.
Ibrahim Ramey, Director of Muslims American Society, Virginia
Barack Obama was my first choice and the first choice of 90 percent of Muslims living in the US.
We supported him because he is an agent of change.
It is a major opportunity for American Muslims to advance themselves for equal opportunities under the law.
Muslim should capitalize on this opportunity and should now better organize themselves to get their voices heard and recognized.
Obama will help do away with the negative image of Muslims inside the US and in the whole world.
Obama will help resolve the lingering conflicts of Palestine and Afghanistan and will soon end the Iraq war.
He will create economic growth and stability in the US and will restore the country’s security and confidence. >>> By Mukhtar A. Khan, IOL Correspondent | November 6, 2008
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