The Caribbean and Obama

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There is no doubt that Obama fever is now spreading all over the country. In fact polls from across the globe shows that this presidential candidate is an overwhelming favorite, compared to his rival John McCain  and even the current sitting president .The Caribbean has no less been affected. While earlier polls during the democratic primaries suggested that many Caribbean people living in the U.S., as with many African Americans initially, supported Hillary Clinton, this has dramatically changed. In the Caribbean he has been the favorite from day one. Spontaneous praises in songs , like the one from Trinidad's Mighty Sparrow and Jamaica's Coco Tea, are evidence that the excitment is not even yet reached its full peak.

Last month in Chicago, during Caribbean Heritage Month Obama Stated:

"During this Caribbean Heritage Month, we celebrate the many ways that people of Caribbean descent have strengthened this country we love -- from serving brilliantly and bravely in Iraq and Afghanistan to helping grow our economy to enriching our culture. What has drawn so many Caribbean men and women to America is the same idea that drew my own father to America many years ago -- that America is a place where our dreams for ourselves and our families can come true. But too often today, those dreams are slipping out of reach. So let's rededicate ourselves to putting them back within reach for people of Caribbean descent and all Americans. That means fixing our economy so it works for everyone, making universal health care a reality, and giving every child a world-class education so they can compete in our global economy. But it also means supporting a robust partnership between the United States and Caribbean nations -- a partnership that helps strengthen democracy in the region, ensure the security of America’s Third Border, and foster economic development to narrow the gap between rich and poor. Caribbean Heritage Month isn't only about celebrating the common past between the United States and Caribbean nations; it's about securing our common future. " Source: www.barackobama.com

It is not wholly clear what tangible things will happen in regards to the Caribbean during his administration, should he win, however his acknowlegment sends a clear message that he at least knows that the Caribbean diaspora represents and important demographic. This is also is suggestive that there is a good opportunity for much needed American-Caribbean foreign policy issues to be addressed. Issues in his campaign such as free trade, immigration, and criminal justice are key issues for Caribbeans people both back home and abroad.

souce: melafela.com

Disclaimer: This commentary does not reflect the official position of the Caribbean Association of Columbus (CAC) . The Caribbean Association of Columbus as is required, endorse any specific presedential Candidate.