For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Jake, San Diego, CA — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:20:30 GMT

So Ali..."it proves that racism is on the wane" does it? Is that why 96% of African Americans voted for Obama? But I'm sure they all voted because of his policies though...and not the color of his skin...right? It's laughable how the 96% reflects how much racism is still very much a part of this nation. It goes both ways.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

MARYANNE, LARGO, FLORIDA — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:21:24 GMT

OSAMA TURNED THE WORLD UPSIDE DOWN, NOT BUSH. PLEASE PEOPLE GET WITH THE PROGRAM!!!!!!!!!!

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Zee Brown, Columbia, SC — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:41:39 GMT

African Americans are minorities in America so even with 96% of the black vote Obama could not have won without the 65% of the white vote he received, so maybe racism IS waning. What's laughable is that people focus on the color of his skin as the reason for his winning and ignore the real advantage that he had over McCain - he's a Democrat. Even if Hillary Clinton had been the nominee McCain still would have lost. Look at the other elections that took place last night and see how the democrats fared on a whole. Democrats gained even more seats in the house and senate because people are tired of the way Republicans run the government. And if Osama turned the world upside down, why the heck are we in Iraq?

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Marissa, Boulder Creek, Ca. — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:42:04 GMT

I am so happy to hear that the world is finally going to be able to see America as something more than just a bully who wants to go to war with everyone. The world is rallying with us right now; how amazing that is!!! I am such a proud American today!!!

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

W. Goin Chicago, IL — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:43:07 GMT

Obama brought many diverse groups in America together. I was in the crowd at Grant Park Tuesday evening and was proud, as a 40 plus, white woman to be part of history. How sad that Jake and Maryanne cannot let go of their prejudices to recognize the importance of this day for our country. And, Maryanne, if you don't realize how much damage Bush has done to our country's credibility, you just aren't paying attention!

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Bill R., Tacoma, Wa. — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:45:39 GMT

Bin Laden anticipated Bush's over-reaction and it has worked perfectly to his advantage. He has, with Bush's help, weakened our economy and increased recruitment into the ranks of Al Qaida. Bush and his cronies have isolated us and weakened our standing in the international community. We now have the chance to repair ties with our allies and seek their help in going after the terrorists where the live while getting at the root cause of the terrorism: a foreign policy which has treated Arabs and Muslims with disdain as we greedily grab after the oil and blindly back Israel at all cost.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Kc the Parts Guy,Porterville,ca — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:46:45 GMT

Thanks For the Kind Words Ali.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Tanya, Gulfport, MS — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:49:42 GMT

The thing is, he WAS the best canditate. It was not the color of skin. It was not just African Americans who put Obama in office. Osama Bin Ladin DID turn the world upside down. It was BUSH who siezed upon the opportunity to SELL an un-needed war to Americans who were frightened and grieving. YOU get with the program, MARYANNE from FL. The days of fear-mongering are over.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Zeeshan Alam, Somerset, New Jersey — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:50:05 GMT

First of all, African American’s are not the majority in the US. It is a sad fact in history that racism lasted up to late seventies in the US. Racism still exists in the US, especially in the southern states.

Another sad fact is that before African Americans were seen as terrorists and now it is the Muslims. There are over 2 billion Muslims in the world. The world would have exploded many times over if this was the case. Actions of few people should give us the right to show off our military ambition. If one does a little research, Osama use to work with the CIA, back during the Cold War days to help defeat the Russians.

Few important things I learned since my elementary schools years in US:

1. Don't judge a book by its cover.

2. Don't stereotype people.

3. Its ok to be different (African, Asian, Christian, Muslim, etc.)

I pray this change that Obama promised us is good for the humanity.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

BL Colorado — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:56:44 GMT

Gee, here's a nice report about people who share this planet with us, commenting that perhaps we Americans are going to be a nicer neighbor and the only two comments from readers (in CA and FL) are negative. I still have hope for America but we need to move into the 21st century and become responsible fellow citizens of the planet. We're on our way - I hope Jake and Maryanne join us with President elect Obama.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Kayce James, Spencer WV — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:00:46 GMT

I'm white, WELL over 21 and I voted for Obama because I felt he was the best qualified candidate - as did MANY others....don't think racism is why the election turned out as it did - it's not the color of the skin, but the content of character.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

LORENZO, PHOENIX, AZ — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:02:17 GMT

To bad Jake and Maryanne. You just dont get it. It appears that you are in the minority now.People who believe our best years are behind us instead of in front of us.
It's amazing that you cant see how great it is that people of other countries will believe in us again.
Maybe you havent traveled outside of your own neighborhood.
You should, then you'll realize that the world is not made of us and them.
We are all children of God.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

opinionater — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:13:58 GMT

I hope he lives up to the world's expectations and ours. This would do a lot to alleviate racism and make this the country I once thought it was. Congrats to Mcain on accepting Obama as president and asking to country to come together for him. That shows some of the man that he was before he got lost in this election. I hope that we can follow his lead and put all of this petty bickering behind us and all work together to fix the very big problems we have right now. Good points Zeeshan.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Alex, Austin, Texas — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:24:20 GMT

Jake,

I think you're being quite harsh. I understand that racism still exists in America, but I don't believe that the 96% of blacks voting for Obama is evidence of that. "Obama ran his campaign believing that America is good and fair" - David Axelrod. I think that those voters believed in change, and you must admit that a black president is a symbol of change! I think we should rejoice that the world is smiling on us again. It makes me proud. Why are you so angry?

Maryanne,

Certainly the attacks on the WTC that were deemed the crimes of Osama bin Laden have shed a bad light on people of Muslim origins. However, Bush completely dealt with the "terrorism" problem in a blanket manner. He went into Iraq, where there were civil wars going on, not "terrorism". We should have invaded terrorist camps in Afghanistan in 2001, and concentrated attention there; instead, we went into Iraq - which had nothing immediately to do with our terroristic threats.

I think we should all come together as Americans, and allow ourselves to enjoy the positive light that Obama is shining around the world. What's wrong with being a force of good in the world?

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Lisa, Cleveland OH — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:33:32 GMT

That is a powerful thing when a president can bring so much promise to the White House. And restore America's image to the world. Last night showed that America no longer has just one face it has many. Omama's face speaks to those people here and around the world. No matter what people say...

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Michael, middle-of-nowhere, IN — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:35:02 GMT

People of the world...

Believe it or not, there is a core group of (us) Americans who refuse to be swayed by the politics of fear; who reject propetuating hate, indifferrence, and intollerance.

Fortunately we are now in the majority and have just elected Barack Obama as our next President - Because we believe whole-heartedly that President Bush's unilateral, "cowboy" approach to foreign policy has been utterly wrong, and has nearly destroyed our reputation in the world.

The age of global cooperation and diplomacy is back, and we must again lead by a good example. True supporters of Barack Obama are committed to this.

Having said that, all must understand that we too will stand united and never flinch or back down when wronged... Osama Bin Laden and Al Qaida MUST AND WILL PAY.

However, under President Obama, we sincerely hope to finally begin the healing process with the rest of the world as we embark on our journey to becomming a caring national family, a tollerant and cooperative international neighbor, and responsible global tennant.

OBAMA '08... US & THE WORLD...
YES WE CAN!!!

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Dave D., Olympia, WA. — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:36:07 GMT

First of all, G.W. Bush, didn't start it(Remember 9/11... I know I remember)! So I'm tired of hearing about how HE turned the world upside down. He did what he thought was best to protect us! Now if Obama can do all those things he says and not screw us over(taxes, hook up with bad nations, changing the Constitution, and so on), then more power to him. I'm willing to give him a chance (not that I have much of a choice right now). But I, like alot of Americans, will still have my guard up.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Uly old white guy, Florida — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:37:13 GMT

I am a displaced republican, I voted republican from the early 70's til George W ran. I then could not vote for an ex-drunk, born again christian who said he would enter into war in the mid east, even before he was elected. I voted for Obama because I felt that even within the spectrum of politics he seems trustworthy, loyal, brave and ittelligent enough to have gone after Osama Bin Laden and not Iraq, which even though it was under a dictatorship, was one of the most stable countries in the mid-east. Hundreds of thousands of Christians who lived in Iraq peacfully are now refugees pushed from their homes under threat of death and torture. I know what George Bush did for this country. I have owned my own homes since the 70's and when I moved I always made a profit. I now am being foreclosed on, have not worked in more than a year and am contemplating bankruptcy. Yes we need change. And I give thanks that enough Americans care for someone other than themselves felt the same way. Yes we can.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

matt g, jacksonville fl — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:42:11 GMT

Bill R. in Tacoma Was...Your a smart dude. i never thought of it that way before.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

ab Grand Prairie, Tx — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:56:52 GMT

I am a 74 year old woman (widowed) of Hispanic descent.
When Obama declared his candidacy for president, I did
not think he would be elected. As time went on, I realized he was not a black man anymore, suddenly he was the better man. That is why he won!

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Cindy, Croydon,Pa — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:19:07 GMT

For all you people hating on Maryann for her post:

OSAMA TURNED THE WORLD UPSIDE DOWN, NOT BUSH. PLEASE PEOPLE GET WITH THE PROGRAM!!!!!!!!!!
MARYANNE, LARGO, FLORIDA (Sent Wednesday, November 05, 2008 2:21 PM)

Read it again!! She said Osama! Not Obama! Everybody seems to forget that Osama Bin Laden led us to war by attacking us first! And if you think that Iraq was just an innocent bystander you really need to get your head out of your rear!! When the middle east realizes that they can not wipe a whole nation (Israel) off the face of the earth then and only then will there be peace in the middle east!!!

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Stefanie, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:36:14 GMT

Bill R. from Washington is right on and "with the program." There's no place for useless rhetoric in this complex world we live in.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Alejandro Madero, Virginia Beach, VA — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 22:18:15 GMT

I am happy that the world is looking at us and seeing us a people where anyone can, if they work hard, reach the highest post in this great country. I am saddened though to read about all the race issues that are still milling about. The race issue is not a factor anymore, it took whites and blacks and other minorities to elect this president. Sure blacks voted for Obama because for the first time they had someone they could rally around. In the coming presidential election when all the novelty has worn off they will vote for what is good for them just like everybody else does.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Breanna&Olivia Collins age 9,7 Killeen tx — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 23:40:24 GMT

We are so happy that we have a new president that look like me.We think that a change is coming and he is the better man.Thank u

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

american made — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:36:35 GMT

Just when white american born folk become the minority thats when Affirmative action will be ruled illeagal. But I still voted for Obama because of the "content of his character".

Deep down Bush was trying to insure a dictator like Saddam could not have access to such a large supply of oil that he can sell for money and run his dictatorship with. The UN sanctions were useless as most european companies were ignoring it and doing business as usual. He had enough of it and if it took our military to do the job than so be it. But he couldn't sell that war with what he really thought.

People will be sorely mistaken if they think Obama will not use force to solve problems. Sometimes the only way to solve a problem is with force. Supreme Force. And when he uses it they will change their tune to say how much he is like bush. lets all feel hopeful and hope for the best cause the real world is out there waiting.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Bugsy Mert — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 03:48:35 GMT

The disparagers of this election must feel as Custer felt at the Little Big Horn.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Student Seattle, Washington — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 05:49:01 GMT

Welcome to a new day. Our light will be soo bright that we'll set the world on fire. I support Obama, but if he messes this up I'll be the first to start the revolution.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

MCANN — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 06:25:20 GMT

I am a 50+ yo white woman who grew up in a moderately racist environment. Over the years, my old belief system was challenged as I met a lot of nice people who were minorities and as I matured, my conscience matured also. I watched with a full heart and teary eyes as America proved once again that it is the greatest country in the world. I pray that Obama will be able to bring his vision of change to this country and restore our reputation in the world, rebuild our economy and safegard our nation. I believe he can. And for the people who are predjiced against him for what ever reason, I pray they will find the courage to be tolerant and remember that almost all of us, especially Obama, love the United States of America and only wish to restore her to a newly defined glory that is appropriate to the 21st century.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Jake, Eugene, Oregon — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 07:32:40 GMT

ab... AMEN! Obama didn't win because he's black... he won because he represents PROMISE and a brighter future. I shake my head at all the people who, positively or negatively, say that Obama's race is a major contributor to his victory. He did not run on a platform of uniting the "rainbow" of diversity in America, it didn't work for Jesse Jackson in '84 or '88, it wouldn't have worked for Obama. That kind of attitude reveals the racist undercurrent running through our culture. No, he ran on a platform of CHANGE and OPTIMISM... HOPE for AMERICA... Barack Obama, as our President, is not an African American... he is an AMERICAN... no divisive prefix, just the ringing clarion call to ALL Americans: YES WE CAN!... He is an AMERICAN, plain and simple. Don't celebrate our first black President... Celebrate, instead, our President, our future, and our Potential for finally alloying our diverse population in this great melting pot that is The United States of America. "E Pluribus Unum." From Many, One... no matter race, gender, orientation, or ability.... ONE, period!

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Reality Check, Chicago, IL — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:12:27 GMT

I would like to see a survey of those who voted for Obama...if they voted AT ALL 4 years ago.

How easily you are swooned by a 11 year professional university lecturer. Judge ye by his actions rather than his words.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

ray spada,mount clemens.Michigan — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 11:47:46 GMT

Bush has Sown DISTAIN for America all around the world ----Obama's victory has opened up a window to let fresh air in a Dank smelling room.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

TR, Chalfont, PA — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:40:54 GMT

ab... as a white woman (early 40's)... I can't connect with the Hispanic descent (although there is a little Portuguese in there! ;-)... but I agree with your message. I do feel that Obama captured my attention with his DNC speech 4 years ago by being an African American male who spoke eloquently and in a way I could relate to. Over time, though, I came to the same realization as you did. Comparing apples to apples I found him and his campaign (and those he surrounded himself with) to be the superior choice. I believe McCain, had he been elected in '00, would have handled 9/11 better. But I don't feel that he is the right choice POST 9/11, Obama is. It's a new world and I'm proud that we've got a new leader to meet the challenges we're dealing with today who understands that and that he’s also someone who wants US to work WITH him. How empowering is that?!?

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

born supreme,allentown,pa. — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:52:33 GMT

I think obama will be a great leader,he is humble and honorable person.Im glad he won because if something didnt change there be alot more war going on and the same old lies to the people.I think there will be alot more peace and equality in america as well as the world now.so all those who read this should understand that we should deal with freedom,justice,and equality to make a change,and i think we did when we elected obama.peace!!!!

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Joe Davis Ca — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:02:04 GMT

MR Obama
please bring our soilders home (my son) from Iraq , and send ex president bush to Iraq and let him clean his own dam mess up he started. Our war was with Bin Laden not Iraq, More soilders had died in Iraq then the WTC or afghan and Bin Laden still is free.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

lynn Davis Ca — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:12:16 GMT

MR Obama
is half white too would he been elected if his skin was on the lighter said? YES he would of, because he has given the AMERICANS hope that we might be able to grasp that American Dream again, instead losing the shirt off our back that we worked hard for with our sweat and tears for the big banks to steal from us.
I chose him because I felt he would get us out of this mess Bushes admistration has brought to our country. For once in 8 yrs I can have hope again

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Henry G, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:45:24 GMT

What people are soon forgetting is that during the Clinton presidency we were continually getting hit by Al-Qaeda (1993- Basement garage bombing at the WTC, 1996- Truck bomb outside the Khobar Towers in Saudi Arabia, 1998- Truck bombs outside the Kenyan and Tanzanian embassies, 2000- The USS Cole attack). The Democratic party has shown they will not respond to such attacks. Allowing these people to continue their actions. It's now up to Obama to finish the fight against Al-Qaeda by moving troops from Iraq to Afghanistan. We must finish the job before troops can return home.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

David, Spartanburg,SC — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:29:55 GMT

I am a black man and I am proud to be black! I hope white people are proud to be white!Just remember the Future President of America, Mr.Obama, want all 0f us to be proud to be Americans! It is time for all of us to join hands and show the world that we can and will lead by example!

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Millie Farmingdale, NY — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:34:02 GMT

As a born Antiguan and became a US citizen, I am very happy to know that I can celebrate with President elected Obama. I admired his intelligent from the time he started to be a public figure in running for the presidency. Even though, I wasn't living in America during the slavery days, I am happy that as a black American that we can move forward in faith believing that The Lord will fix things up for us. Obama cannot get all that he promised accomplished without The Lord and the people of America whether white or black. My son is in college and about to be graduate in 2009. He admired Obama and I told him one day he can be the same. Yes he can.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

j.h. Boston — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:50:56 GMT

Thank you to the Egyptians quoted in this article who are happy about America's decision in this election.
We're pretty stoked too!

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

mrg holmes/ms nixson, Jamestown, Tx — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:58:32 GMT

Obama Is not " a black man", Call him the melting pot because he is a part of all americans.
**He is half white **(from his mom's side;his paternal white grandmother whom just recently died)
**He is half black of africian descent (from his father whom he hardly ever seen),
**His step-father is from Indonesia (Obama spent several years in school there)
**I've even read that his brothers and sisters are from other races.
He is a very culturally diversed individual and one who has a heart for all, no matter what country, state or nation you may reside in. Let's not forget that "Man is Not Perfect" only one is and Hopefully You know his Name. Obama knows the hurt, disgust and financial needs of this entire world. Remember, he is part of all of us and he with his staff will Make a Change. We Can Do It. Our New President is coming into a Hot Mess, and I believe he will do a remarkable job in improving our world as a whole. Let's all continue to Pray for Obama and his family. Review Obama's speech on last tuesday night, agree with him and remember his words as you pray for him and his family and our One Nation Under God. Keep sending up the timbers for the entire world. (u christians know what I mean about Sending Up the Timbers---Prayers) Let us All Stay with a Positive Mind.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

chris, cedar rapids, iowa — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 17:07:09 GMT

To think that people are stil able to defend GW and shift blame to others amazes me. Osama Bin Laden did not turn the world upside down, he turned America upside down. There was no direct impact on any other nation stemming from 9/11 until GW reacted. The national model was quickly shifted from addressing the issues we have here at home to blind rage and vengence. True we should have sought retribution from those who perpetrated such an act, but the innocent Iraqi people were not among them.

Race is still prevelant in this country, however not to the degree it once was. The black vote couldnt have elected Obama, it was the racial majority that sealed the victory. If you cannot understand the importance of this election, then you do not understand this nation's history, and more importantly you do not understand this nation's future.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Allen, Fort Worth, Texas — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:00:53 GMT

Is America back! I wonder because of what has gone on for way to long; will it stop? Republicans are right and the Demacrates are right. Who is right? When one is in Office the other does everything possible to make them fail. We have seen this with every President that I can remember. I am sick of both party's trying to knock off the other. If McCain had won that would be going on right now. So we have a new chance to start from this point in time. Obama has brought a sense of hope to us and the world. We need that lets keep our voices heard on what we want as Americans and stop the in fighting and come together as a Nation. I voted for McCain but I will support my President and pray he has great success. What has happened to America is not the responsibilty of one but both party's. Demacrates and Republicans need to stop fighting and we need to come together with clear direction and a sense of Honor and Integrity. Lets stay involved make our voices heard so our New President elect knows what we the American people want as a Nation. Freedom, Peace, Prosperity and Justice for all Americans. Let this Country's light shine bright for all the world to see! There is only one Country called America let's not ruin what others have sacrificed so much for what we have today. Respect her and Love her. Let's all as Americans show our support for this new President.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Craig in Alexandria, VA — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:03:55 GMT

Jake in San Diego. Obviously there will always be racism, whether it be toward the Irish a hundred plus years ago, the Africans more recently, or the current Mexicans.
But you are a little off on your reasoning being 96% of Blacks voting for Obama because 94% of Blacks voted for Kerry and Gore.

For Egyptians ‘It's a new beginning’

Devout Atheist, Mountville, PA — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:51:22 GMT

You know, so much of the animosity directed towards us from around the world is based on the perception of us as an arrogant, imperialist, White Empire, a perception that though undeserved we have not gone out of our way to dispell in the last 50 years. However, it is being erroded now. The election of a non-white man with an Arab-sounding name helps eliminate our image as an exclusivist White Empire. And being willing to talk with world leaders who disagree with us, even those who are hostile toward us, demonstrates humility instead of arrogance. I'm not saying that electing Obama was the right choice just because he helps improve our image and standing abroad, but it sure didn't hurt knowing what good it would do even on a purely symbolic level.