U. S. elections an opportunity for a new global dispensation

Nov 09, 2008 Clarence E. Pilgrim, Features / Columnists

By Clarence E. Pilgrim

When exit polls pointed to a change in the political compass and ultimately the leadership landscape in the United States, many people both inside and beyond that country’s borders felt that hope and optimism for the future had returned, and most importantly that the change they could believe in had occurred!

Around the globe the remarkable level of interest shown was aided by the saturated media coverage, which left a multitude of onlookers in many nations transfixed for hours to their computers, televisions, radios and even word of mouth, waiting for the final results. Everyone wanted to see history in the making that would surely transform the world’s perceptions of America.

Remembering the obstacles of both history and cultural diversity, President-elect Obama has given many the inspiration and belief that the US has reached a new level of maturity which includes building on the strength of the contents of its own character, and making the “American Dream” a reachable reality and not just a catch phrase for suggesting what might be possible.

Even within the realm of an impressive personal and party victory, as well as a very tangible show of popular support, the new man in the White House brought home the reality of what lies ahead when he said, “You understand the enormity of the challenges we face – two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century….. The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep.

We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America – I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there. I promise you – we as a people will get there.”

The deciding Electoral College gave the new president substantially more than the 270 electoral votes needed to win.

This is a very positive psychological and sociological landmark, since it shows that there is a clear and unmistakable mandate from the will of the electorate.

This should put to rest the ghost of the deadlocked elections of eight years ago, which was decided on hanging chads and a Supreme Court decision.

As the new man taking over from outgoing President George W. Bush, his transition team must be clear on the many priorities of this new administration.

This list may look like the following: Presidential Appointments; Health Care; Financial Stability; Food Security and Consumer Safety; Energy Security and Renewable Energy; Structured withdrawal from Iraq;
War against terrorism; Education Empowerment;
Scientific Integrity & Research; Global Warming;

Ecosystem Conservation and Restoration; Endangered Species Conservation. It was believed that government has been ignoring or avoiding critical issues for too long.

Many voters in this election cast their ballots not only for change from the status quo, but for a new era of hope for prosperity, opportunity, equality, justice, self-actualization, etc.

The victorious Democratic Party will control two of the three branches of the US government, putting them in a strong position to enact a new legislative agenda, especially as it relates to the financial crisis, energy security and the environment.

Despite the optimism, the new president can only make good on his promises if the people support and participate in the vision he has for his nation, and by extension the global village.

President-elect Barack Obama says it best when he asserted that, “This victory alone is not the change we seek. It’s just a chance to make that change.”

It appears that this new administration is willing to engage in dialogue and consultation rather than using confrontation and unilateral action, as first options.

If this is indeed the case, then it can be assumed that the United Nations and other international bodies will be given a greater role in conflict resolution and equitable arbitration settlements.

Many believe that this is a passing of the old order to a newer better one on many levels. I am offering my congratulations to President-elect Barack Obama as well as my well wishes for his governance stewardship through these challenging times in our global village.

Clarence E. Pilgrim is an environmentalist, advocate for human rights, educator, a senior officer in the Antigua & Barbuda Civil Service and volunteer for various non-profit organisations.