America today was probably America when John F. Kennedy was president. The 1960s era was a period of social awareness, fighting for your rights, embracing youth and rebelling against and unpopular government. Our nation fought for its independence in 1776 and 1812. We fought to remain whole in 1861. We created our country from the blood of martyrs who believed in an America that treated all people as equals.

Our hero, in Kennedy, died from assassins’ bullets. A government, at war with itself, wanted him dead. Kennedy died because he sided with Negroes. Kennedy died because he chose peace than war in Vietnam. Kennedy died because the military feared him. Kennedy died because the South hated him. He died as Dr. Martin Luther King did. Our nation killed them both.

In 1963, we lost a great president. In 1968, we lost a humanitarian. In 2008, we have a third chance at a prosperous future. Senator Barack Obama has the charisma of JFK with the persistence of Dr. King. Obama has the opportunity to bring Americans back to being idealists, humanitarians and leaders of ALL OF THE FREE WORLD. However, rogue elements plotted against him.

Three, white bigots confessed to wanting to kill him. For three years, Obama lived under the fear of assassination. The KKK and anti-government militias placed contracts on the senator and his family. The FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) uncovered some alleged hits. Sen. Obama refused to back down. His increased visibility made them more vulnerable.

Obama’s bravery in the face of death inspired millions of Americans. He stood up for what is right in the face of death or dishonor. He stood for the American PEOPLE. Unlike, the other side who stood up for the status quo.

Republicans and the white media painted him as “unpatriotic” for wearing a turban. They called him an “extremist” for his alleged friendship with a 60s radical. These allegiations are malicious and untrue. They sought to discredit him. As they did so many others.

Southern newspapers called Kennedy a “nigger-lover” because he supported the Movement. They called Dr. King, “Martin Luther Coon”, “a Red Puppet” and a nigger because he wanted freedom and equality for blacks. They dishonored them both. They shot them both.

Great Americans stood up in the face of death or dishonor. Our generation and our children have to aspire to be like them.