That historic night….
Posted on | November 5, 2008 |
I had intended to take a whole series of photos on election night, showing the reactions of people around me. By the time the actual event took place, however, I was so caught up in it myself that I no longer felt like an outsider looking in - and consequently failed to take many shots! Instead I was cheering, smiling and crying along with the rest of the party. The (rather blurry) shots that I did take can be viewed here.
It was a pleasure to see young Americans finally proud of their own country - and to feel proud of being here myself.
Category: Politics
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5 Responses to “That historic night….”
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Date: 15/11/08
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Ollie's visit!
Date: 08/11/08
November 6th, 2008 @ 8:13 am
On the other side of the pond, it was quite interesting to be an American expat during the election. First of all, EVERYONE of all nationalities was following this election closely–many admitted to following it more closely than their own national elections. Related to this point, several non-Americans admitted that they would give up the right to vote in their own national elections in order to be able to vote in this one.
This points to something that I am not sure the majority of Americans understand: the sheer power and influence of American foreign policy on the lives of millions outside of its borders. Pre-Bush, most (but certainly NOT all) would say that on balance, this intervention was positive. However, the last few years have seen intrusive and abusive (mis)use of American muscle against millions of mostly innocent people abroad. Through my recent studies and now work at an international security think tank in Geneva, I have become aware of many shocking instances of this misuse that have contributed to an outward perception of the US as a mean, stupid bully.
Closer to home is this telling example: upon learning that Obama had won the election, my 7-year-old son said, “Yay–that means that people won’t hate us for being American anymore.” Having been so focused on the election itself and its implications for the US, I had completely failed to consider what it would mean for us Americans living abroad. What Nick said is true–the image and perceptions of the US abroad have already greatly shifted. People are no longer so afraid, and the perception is that a very intelligent, sensitive and competent captain is coming to the helm. Sail Ahoy!
November 6th, 2008 @ 8:51 am
It feels good. It feels very, very good.
November 6th, 2008 @ 10:02 am
To echo Anne-Marie, I just sent an email to my Mom elaborating my view from England:
From this side of the pond, I can say that electing Obama has caused an almost complete immediate reversal of opinion towards America (and thus Americans) over here. Most people I talk to are amazed that the US could actually elect someone black, and someone who is so well liked by the people abroad. I felt a palpable lifting of an undercurrent of tension, even with my friends. . . like they no longer have to in some way dislike me because of my citizenship. I got a half dozen text messages yesterday, some from people I haven’t talked to in years, saying how happy they were that Obama got elected. That kind of global reaction will definitely have positive repercussions for US foreign policy. I don’t think it would be an understatement to say that at this moment, a lot of people in Europe are wishing that they could have a leader like Obama.
I’m not saying that Obama is going to be an amazing leader (though of course I hope he will be); what I am saying is that he has made it into the hearts of many of the world’s citizens, stirring the embers of the old perception that America is a benevolent force in the world that strives (and makes true) an ideal form of society. People here are happy, and even if that is grounded in a mis-reading of Obama, they are happy.
It’s fairly likely that that happiness will lead to disillusionment in the future, since so many have set the bar so high for him, but if he continues to manage his perception well, he has a massive well-spring of support from the populaces of many countries. That really shouldn’t be underestimated.
November 6th, 2008 @ 4:57 pm
Well, Naomi, you didn’t show up, so we had to consume a shameful quantity of Champagne ourselves and miss most of the workday Wed in a near comatose state. I’m glad to hear you were having a good time in Berkeley. Who woulda thunk?
I think that through his native intelligence and tone so far, Obama represents to the rest of the world an America returning to greatness not because the size of its military, but because of its spirit of freedom, of generosity, inclusion, can-do and will-do.
No doubt he inherits a dismal situation from a two term president, and honestly, I can’t wait to see what a man of his abilities and a team as formidable as his promises to be, supported by an inspired nation (at least half of one) can do! I’m hopeful and itchy curious! I pray we see the wonder of potential fulfilled!
November 6th, 2008 @ 10:43 pm
Sorry for not being in Geneva to help you consume that champagne, Daniel! Will have to make up for my absence before too much time goes by.
Thank you for all your comments. I too agree that the election of Obama has already transformed Americans’ standing the the rest of the world’s eyes. And I have great hopes for both him and the team he is currently picking, although I also acknowledge that his supporters’ high expectations will to a certain degree inevitably be knocked down within the present unstable climate. I liked my own mother’s thoughtful take on the outcome of the election: “But gosh, what a lot is now needed and expected of him - “handed a poisoned chalice” is the cliche commentators keep using. I hope his steady calm and intellectual ability can help him choose wise advisers, and I hope too that the desperate needs of the moment won’t swamp his wider vision, especially in the areas of extending diplomatic conversations with non-friends, rather than aggressive bullying tactics, and of healthcare.”
Let’s hope that things can only get better! But isn’t it wonderful to have genuine, optimistic hope again?