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Barack Obama fulfills Martin Luther King's dream

by Amy Judd | January 18, 2009 at 11:12 am

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Martin Luther King, Jr had a dream for America, and on January 20th Barack Obama will make one of those dreams come true.

When Obama is sworn in as President, millions of people across America will see the echos of Martin Luther King as Obama stands at that podium and accepts the job as one of the most influencial people in the world.

The inauguration of Americas first black president is a moment pregnant with symbolism and possibilities but also redolent of the challenges that he faces. Recognition that his achievement in winning the election is immense is at once an acknowledgement that race remains the great fault line of American society.

Indeed, Mr Obama's ability to improve the lot of African Americans through his policies and provide a positive role model by his example will be a key yardstick of his performance in the White House.

The similarities between 1963 and 2009 are many and a little spooky.

A large number of people attending the Inauguration will be coming from the south, an area that heavily supported Dr. King, and just like Martin Luther King did, Obama will be making history.

Dr. King spoke on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and and Obama began his campaign in front of the Illinois capitol, where Abraham Lincoln made his speech about slavery.

Tomorrow, on Martin Luther King Day, Obama has declared it a day of voluntary service, and more than 10,000 events are planned across the country.

However, most importantly, what Barack Obama says on Tuesday will be so important to how he runs his Presidential term.

There is no doubt that he will be channeling Dr. King and Abraham Lincoln as he looks out on the crowd of people that made his dream come true.

Some previous coverage:

Our Obama Inauguration channel
Nostalgic trip into the future
Inauguration Lincoln Memorial Celebration - Preliminary Program
Opening Ceremonies Kick-off at Lincoln Memorial

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Pythiian1

at 11:23 on January 18th, 2009

Nice piece, Amy. Additionally, I think Mr. Obama is also greatly inspired by President Lincoln.

Historically, when Dr. King spoke, artists also came to hear and salute him. Today, the We Are One concert kicks off at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.

Barry Artiste

at 17:54 on January 18th, 2009

Most people I am sure will realise their dreams through Obama as well,

CJaye

at 21:22 on January 18th, 2009

Today was great, the beginning of the festivities. All the actors,singers were just awesome. There were so many people there they had the national guard every 2 blocks I think they said as security it was unbelievable. Thousands of people. Just wanted to fill you in. Amy your piece if great thank you for posting.