: Today is a great day for all Americans. What many didn't believe possible just a year ago happened last night.
But amidst all the celebration, we shouldn't forget that some of us did believe that this was possible. Before anyone was wearing "Change" T-shirts, when all of the Black politicians were telling Obama to wait his turn, and many of the pundits were questioning his commitment to Black issues, Oprah believed.
And she didn't just believe - she acted. She officially endorsed Obama (when it wasn't en vogue to do so) and she heavily campaigned for him in Iowa before the caucuses. She put her ratings on the line, her credibility on the line - and even her MONEY on the line.
Today as we reflect on Barack Obama's victory, we can't help wonder what would have happened if Oprah hadn't taken that courageous step.
So next time some fool opens up their mouth to ask what Oprah's done for the Black community - why don't you remind them of Iowa and all that it meant....
Good day and good night ....
TO THE RACIST" HAHA, A AFRICAN TOOK YOUR WHITE WOMAN AND MADE A BLACK SON WHO IS NOW YOUR PRESIDENT!!! THE MOST POWERFUL MAN IN THE WORLD IS BLACK!!! YOU ARE BELOW A BLACK MAN! A BLACK FAMILY IS THE FIRST FAMILY OF OUR NATION! NOW, THAT IM FINISH RUBBING IT IN, I WANNA CONGRATULATE OBAMA ON THIS HISTORICAL WIN! NO ONE DESERVES IT MORE. I CRIED MANY TEARS WHEN THEY ANNOUNCED YOU AS THE WINNER. I AM SO PROUD OF YOU, AND THIS IS A DEFINING MOMENT IN OUR COMMUNITY! GO OBAMA!!!!! WE LOVE YOU!!! YES WE CAN AND YES WE DID,!!!!! PRESIDENT BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA!!!!!!!!! =D
@SODAPOP...YOU ARE AN IGNORANT MF***KER...SO DUMB..DID YOU EVEN READ WHAT YOU WROTE..THIS IS NOT A TIME FOR RACISM..***..THIS IS A TIME TO UNITE..PLEASE DO NOT FORGET OBAMA IS THE BEST OF "BOTH WORLDS" NOT JUST AFRICAN AMERICAN..AND IF YOU KNEW ANYTHING YOU wOULD SEE THAT 68% OF THE VOTERS WHO VOTED FOR OBAMA WERE WHITE...YOU ARE SO FU*CKIN DUMB!!!!!!!
Im not a big oprah fan but I feel what MTO is saying to day. Only 2% of the registered voters in Iowa are black. And yet he won that state which is are really big state when it comes to picking the democratic nomination. With out that state he probably would have drop out of the race, hilary would have won, and someone else would be in his place right now. Oprah pull with white females was accredited to that win. With out her a lot of black people wouldn't even have a chance to vote for barack. So before black people start to sleep on her I think we need to give her a LITTLE more credit.
Yeah she donated time and money. But i won't dare say that he won because of her. Everyday is ordained by God. He won because God ordained him to win. Thanks to Oprah for her donations, but All glory be to God for creating this man and chosing him to be a major part of history. WE MADE HISTORY!!!! BARACK OBAMA!!! OUR FIRST BLACK ELECTED PRESIDENT!!!!!
I agree with THolmes and Redduck that yes, it is because of God. But we have to remember, God USES people to do HIS work. SO, in saying that, Oprah being a Gatekeeper in the media utilized what she had at her fingertips to raise awareness...that was priceless. Oprah is a force not only in the U.S. but worldwide...She was definitely an asset and helped folk who ordinarily wouldn't have paid attention to him to atleast see what he was talking about. SO, yes MTO as a person who works in the media, you are absolutely right!!! Thank you for this post.
Oprah is a great woman but i still say it was because of Obama that he won. She stepped completely out the spot light where his election was concerned.
WIN AN IPOD WHEN YOU PURCHASE "BLIND TEMPTATIONS" THE SEDUCTION OF ***, LIES & BETRAYAL FROM WWW.AMAZON.COM AND GO TO WWW.LESLEYHAL.COM TO LEAVE YOUR RECIEPT INFORMATION DRAWING WILL BE ON JANUARY 20TH SAME DAY AS BARACK WILL BE SWORN IN AS OUR NEXT PRESIDENT!!!
Everyone that voted help by voting and contributing................... HELP MAKE THIS HAPPEN.
WHATS IS MEANT TO BE WILL BE.................
This was written and ONLY GOD KNEW since Obama was born that he would be the chosen one for the President of United States........
HOW EVER HE GOT THE VICTORY, He got the Victory and once it was written, NO MAN COULD HAVE CHANGE THAT
MY GOD IS AN AWESOME GOD-HE REIGNS FROM HEAVEN ABOVE! JUST LIKE JESUS WAS BORN TO BE THE SAVIOUR OF THE WORLD-BARAK WAS BORN TO SAVE THIS NATION!!!
I am grateful to Oprah for her early support and all of her contributions as well as everyone else who campaigned and voted for such a distinguished gentleman!!
Oprah????? What the ***?
Are you seriously suggesting that with the economy *** up, foreign relations in the toilet, people losing their homes, jobs, 401K's, and businesses - and you seriously think that with all of THAT, OPRAH was the deciding factor?
I love Oprah, but she wasn't the deciding force in this election - didn't even come close - BARACK OBAMA did that! He ran his campaign with class and professionalism, he never lost his composure, no matter how hard "they" tried to make him - and with all the work he's done, you want to give the credit to OPRAH???
How about you give voters more credit than that, Fred? Do you think that I would vote for who I LIKE on American Idol, but who some CELEBRITY likes for the most important job on EARTH????
Proof that Fred is about as stupid as most of his stories!
WHAT DOOR GOD OPENS NO MAN CAN CLOSE AND WHAT DOOR GOD CLOSES NO MAN CAN OPEN...THERE ARE MANY PEOPLE WHO PAVED THE WAY FOR THIS MOMENT BUT THE IT COULD HAVE NOT HAPPEND WITHOUT GOD...JESUS CHRIST.GOD ORDAINED BARACK OBAMAM FOR THIS MOMENT AND HE WAS GOING TO WIN REGARDLESS.IT WAS SO STRONG IN MY HEART AS WELL AS MY FAMILY HEART THAT GOD HAD HIS HANDS IN THIS, THAT WHEN REV WRIGHT, HILLARY CLINTON, AND PEOPLE LIKE THE OWNER OF BET TRIED TO STOP HIM IT DID NOT FAZE US BECAUSE WHEN GOD IS FOR YOU WHO CAN BE AGAINST YOU...CONGRATULATIONS BARACK OBAMA AND ALL THE GLORY GOES TO THE ONE UP ABOVE. I LOVE YOU JESUS!
OPRAH did her thing - but I'm giving props to EVERY SINGLE OBAMA Supporter. Without us ALL - Black, White, Latino and Asian - it could not have happened. THANK YOU EVERYONE I'm even giving pats on the back to McCain Supporters for, at least, knowing someone who voted for OBAMA. Enjoy your day folks - you all deserve it and so does OBAMA
SODA POP GO AHEAD AND SHOW YOUR IGNORANCE AS WE CAN ALL SEE HISTORY WAS MADE AND ALL YOU CAN DO IS MAKE RACITS COMMENTS YOU SHOULD HAVE LEFT IT AT BEING HAPPY TO FINALLY HAVE A BLACK MAN IN OFFICE AND LEFT THE RACITS COMMENT OUT ABOUT TAKING A WHITE WOMAN DONT FORGET HE IS HALF WHITE QUIT HATTIN YOURSELF
We can thank Oprah, but we have to Thank Almighty God, Also we can not forget about our ancestors who paid to vote or even risked their lives to vote. We 4 get about the story he told about the 106 year old woman who voted. Mlk Jr. Jessie Jackson, Al *** and the Million Man March the Activist who fought to get us here. we have to remember wht we stand for and what we now have a chance to do. I pray we Unite.
YEA OPRAH WAS A STR8 SOLDIER IN THIS ELECTION.....HONESTLY IF IT WASN'T FOR ME SEEIN THAT ON TV OPRAH'S SPEECH ABOUT OBAMA, I WOULD HAVE BEEN VERY SKEPTICAL. I WAS ORIGINALLY A HILLIARY SUPPORTER, UNTIL I STARTED PAYING CLOSE ATTENTION TO WHAT THIS LIGHT SKINNED BLACK MAN HAD TO SAY. AND FOR AWHILE I THOUGHT HE WOULDN'T GET AS FAR AS JESSE JACKSON GOT.
SO A GREAT APPRECIATION TO MISS OPRAH WINFREY FOR PUTTIN THIS GREAT HUMAN BEING OUT THERE FOR EVERYONE TO SEE WHATEVER IT WAS THAT YOU SAW IN HIM......AND YES, YOU WERE SOOOOO RIGHT ABOUT HIM, OUR PRESIDENT ELECT BARAK HUSSEIN OBAMA!!!!!!
*******THIS IS A GREAT MESSAGE TO PASS ON*******
TO THE OBAMA SUPPORTERS I WRITE THIS SCRIBE
YES WE CAN AND YES WE DID
Today is one of the proudest days of my life and I have never been more proud of my people and our president elect, Senator Barack Obama. It’s a monumental accomplishment for our people because we have a leader that is in our likeness and he has provided hope for us and for our youth. What I love about this is that Senator Obama also unites the races and it’s vital that we not only have unity within our race but unity throughout the races.
I was also proud to see the supporters hugging and rejoicing. The faces were various shades of brown and an array of ethnicity spread throughout. It was beautiful to see everyone united for once cause. I have always been a proud black woman and pro-black for the most part. I love my people and I've always empathized with my race on the struggle and the injustices that we have faced from the very beginning. I know our history and see the present when some people choose not to. However; I have come to realize that in order for us to progress as a country we have to remain united.
Figuratively speaking, we have won the battle but the war has just begun. Today’s victory was just a small step in the right direction. “Yes WE can” means just that; Obama can not do this alone, we must collectively unite and strive to accomplish all of the plans that Obama has set forth. It’s vital that we help one another by being more involved in our families, communities, schools and our country. It’s important to continue to encourage our children and the neighborhood children. This means giving something whether its time, clothing or money. It’s just about being more loving, concerned and selfless. It started with us coming together to support this cause, lets not allow this journey, mission, milestone to be in vain.
Our children must remain optimistic and for once feel equal to their peers. We are not asking for African-Americans to have superior rights but to have equal rights. Let all children have the same education and opportunity and allow us the right to work for equal pay to commensurate with performance and PLEASE allow us the right to not be discriminated against based on color. We have had enough and we deserve the respect that we give.
I’d like to be able to teach my daughter a different way than I was taught. I would like her to grow up in a place that allows her more freedom than I had. Of course I know that this will take some time but I honestly feel that the more people that commit to a to this goal and at the very least try to be better people and help someone else to become a better person; the sooner we will reach this goal. This world has suffered so much damage but it’s not irreparable and if we believed enough to shock the masses by causing a landslide victory then I know that we have the power to BE BETTER and DO BETTER.
And in closing, the non-supporters that voted for McCain based on his beliefs and NOT just because you did not want to vote for a black man; you can also be included in making this world a better place. Being angry or upset that Obama was the victor will not make a better place for your children to live in. You may not agree with his beliefs but he is respectable and respectful and he is the new president. It would be in everyone’s best interest if we all were just tired of seeing this world in this state. We are all tired of fighting, and war, and racism, and various forms of discrimination and division.
It’s a good time to start getting along regardless of what we believe. What’s the harm in helping improve each others lives by improving our own lives? Let’s not feed into the ignorance and try to neutralize hostile situations when possible. There are so many options to creating a better you but the most important is to continually do your part in supporting OBAMA in his fight for change.
Thank you for taking the time out to read this letter and please remember if we go back to doing the things that we always did, we will only get the results that we always got. Do NOT let your vote fade into the hype, make your vote count throughout the entire term and throughout life. Now we see that we can accomplish any and everything once we come together, support and believe in each other and a common goal. ENCOURAGE CHANGE for the better.
BE AN ADVOCATE...PLEASE SPREAD THE MESSAGE...OUR WORK HAS JUST BEGUN.
Peace and Blessings to all
Love
P.S. You can not be disappointed by the outcome if you have made no contribution to the efforts.
Though I am sure she has been instrumental in his path to presidency to say it likely would not have happend without her is an exaggeration. Many have made their contribution but I think is is primarily Barack Obama's own drive and ambition that has broght him to today. This journey did not just start a few years ago;this is a goal to serve that Barack Obama was always working towards. I am just glad to have seen it come to fruition.
Oprah and many others supported Barack...And FYI, who was also at the Grant Park Chicago celebration by the Obama's side through the entire election and supportor before Barack was a senator was a long time friend,advisor and supporter..Bishop A Brazier..of the Apostolic Church of God...A well known heavy hitter in Chicago... This was also the church the J Hudson Family had the funeral services at...
Shaking my head at blackfolk.
YOU try and give a black woman, just a LIL' praise.. and *** lynch mob breaks forth everythime, lol. Run O.. run girl! lol. Sad. You same nyggaz probably couldn't STAND to hear your new BIRACIAL Mr. President shower praise upon and ackowledge his BLACK WOMAN wife as the FIRST LADY last ***, lol!!
Umm, I think for once we are giving Oprah too much credit. Actually, it's pretty stupid to say he wouldn't be here without her. This wasn't a new book club selection, this is people's future! I can truly say Americans voted because of their values. When people are losing their homes, their investments are disappearing, a celebrity's opinion at this point doesn't matter.
We have never given Oprah the credit she deserves. We critized her for not having this and that on her show, but we never took a look at ourselves and how we portrayed ourselves, and we never once thought about what we could do to improve our image to get on her show. We never thought about pulling our pants up, we never thought about taking out grill out, we never thought about sending a message that we are moving on up. We wanted to take our Agenda to the Oprah Winfrey show and promote our agenda, but she would not stand for it and I DON'T BLAME HER!!!!!!!!
Oprah supported Obama because she could see that this man was trying to make a difference. A difference that we all needed. He was not promoted negative influence, he was promoting positive influence.
Oprah see us in a better light than we see ourselves. Obama sees us in a better light than we see ourselves. NOW WE NEED TO SEE OURSELVES IN A BETTER LIGHT. WE NEED TO DO BETTER, WE NEED TO CHANGE OUR ATTITUDES, OUR APPEARANCES, OUR DEMEANOR, OUR EXPECTATIONS, OUR OUTLOOK ON LIFE........WE NEED TO BE A MORE POSITIVE PEOPLE.
LET US MAKE THIS START WITH PRESIDENT OBAMA, LET US PUT FORTH EFFORTS TO BETTER OURSELVES AND HELP OURSELVES. WE CAN NO BLAME THE OTHER PERSON FOR OUR FAILURES, WE CAN ONLY BLAME OURSELVES. THE PAST IS THE PAST. WHAT OUR PARENTS FOUGHT AND DIED FOR HAS BEEN FULLY RECTIFIED AND JUSTIFIED. NOW THE CHANCE HAS BEEN PRESENTED TO US.......AND IT IS UP TO US TO TAKE IT AND MAKE IT MULTIPLY....GOD IS SO SO GOOD, OBAMA IS AWESOME, WE AS A BLACK PEOPLE ARE READY FOR THE CHALLENGE AND OUR HOPES ARE ELEVATED TO THE HEIGHTS WE WILL ONE DAY RISE.
GOD BLESS OUR NEXT PRESIDENT: BARACK OBAMA!!!!!!!
atlantalibragirl - It's up to PARENTS (because they are the first and most important role models) to raise their children to go out into the world, act like they have sense in order to erase stereotypes, this is not Obama's or anyone else's job. This is that false hope I'm hoping most African-Americans will not have because he's in office. He will not erase all problems. The people have to take accountability fo themselves and their children. People don't need to get lazy like generations did after the Civil Rights movement because they feel WE MADE IT. There is always work to do and new measures to take as times change.
Sure I’ll give props to her…but also to all the volunteers who campaigned nationwide, the small donations that added up, and especially to the electorate that had the mind and ability to see beyond the rhetoric that is color and race and embrace the substance, understand the hope and actually elect the RIGHT CANDIDATE that had the right mix of qualities and qualifications to lead this nation in it’s most troubled times. Congratulations to everyone!
I think Oprah should be president. But she believed in Obama and knew in her heart he was the next president. She risked losing her entire white fans and audience for it.She played a big part in being the first mega celebrity to endorse him.
But the African American community is the one that should be givin props to. We came out and voted
If it weren't for Oprah??Are you *** kidding me??? Yes...she did show her support for Obama, but OBAMA won the election!!! Do you think that just because Oprah endorsed Jesse Jackson, he would have won??? Its all about what the candidate is all about. OPRAH did NOT have anything to do with the final outcome...she was just supportive....SHE even said that she in NO way was the reason for his presidential victory. Don't get me wrong...I VOTED for OBAMA because of OBAMA not because of OPRAH...get it right, MTO!
OPRAH???? You are out of your *** MIND. People believe. don't give all thanks to OPRAH. BULLLLLLLLLSSSSSSHII IIIIIIIIIITTTTTTTTTT TTTTTT. *** Oprah. She didn't make a difference by herself. All the Americans who voted for Obama did. HOW DARE U MTO say that ***? *Shots Fired* People voted for Obama because they believe. NOT because of OPRAH. *** Oprah.
THAT'S WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT. WE'VE GOT TO LOOK OUT FOR EACH OTHER, NOT JUST AS A RACE BUT AS THE "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" AND FROM THE TURNOUT WE DID! THOSE WHO ARE BEHIND THE TIMES HAD NO CONTROL OF WHAT GOD BROUGHT FORTH.
OPRAH DOES NOT GET ALL THE CREDIT. HE HIMSELF THANKED EVERYONE TO BE THANKED IN HIS SPEECH. THERE WERE NUMEROUS VOLUNTEERS. MONEY IS GOOD BUT HANDS ON HELP IS EVEN BETTER.
FIRST AND FOREMOST I WOULD LIKE TO THANK PRESIDENT BARRACK HUSSEIN OBAMA FOR CRUSHING THE STEREOTYPE....WOOOOOOOO....FOR HIS DEDICATION AND PERSERVERANCE...TRULY AMAZING....WITH EVERYTHING THROWN AT HIM HE HANDLED IT ALL WITH PRIDE , CLASS AND DIGNITY...BIG UPS TO THE PREZ......WOOOOOOOO...UH OH I FEEL THE CABBAGE PATCH COMING ON....AHHHHH SHUCKS....BREAK IT DOWN...***....*PHONE RINGS*....LOL
Please take down if it wasn't for Oprah this wouldn't have happen. That is a false statement, and she even said on CNN, that she is tAKING NO CREDIT FOR OBAMA WINNING. Oprah and USA the ppl made this happen. So please take this down for she sue yall butts. I help make a difference and so did everyone that went out and voted! Yes Obama! ALso Jesus was a reason for this 2 Don't forget Him! Amen
OPRAH IS NOT PERFECT, BUT WHO HELL IS???
GOTTA GIVE OL GIRL CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE. SHE ALONE DIDNT PUT BARACK IN OFFICE BUT SHE ABSOLUTELY USED HER STAR POWER TO PUT A SHINE ON THIS GREAT MAN...EVEN AGAINST THE "SENSITIVITIES" OF HER MAJORITY WHITE-FEMALE AUDIENCE WHO WANTED HILLARY.
SHE RECIEVED A TON OF HATE-MAIL AND FOLKS TALKING MESS ON HER SITE FOR ENDORSING BARACK BUT SHE STUCK TO HER GUNS THROUGH IT ALL. FOR THAT, GOTTA GIVE "O" HER PROPS!!
GO OPRAH!
That is not true! Obama was the best candidate, white or black, and America obviously knew that. I really thought he was going to lose because I see racism/ignorance everyday and I never thought some of these people would vote for a black man. I am so proud of this country right now. I do not think any of this goes to Oprah! Obama ran a wonderful campaign and he won 100% on his own!!
and why would "GOD" choose Obama over McCain? Could someone explain this to me? It kills me when someone says "God" made this happen or that happen, yet we are ALL sinners, including Obama. So what would make him special that God would get involved and choose him. He gave us all FREE WILL -- the choices we make and most things that come about are the result of hard work, dedication, education, etc., not that God favors one of us over the other...please know that.
This story is inaccurate. Oprah thought Obama was a very honest politician and asked him if he had ever thought about running when he appeared on her show. He said no. Oprah told him if ever ran she would do all that was in her power to help him.
She WAS the catalyst who got Obama into running for the presidency! That's how the article should've been titled.
Afterwards, Obama formed a team and viewed his chances of running and the rest is history. So Oprah DID play a role in America getting to know this unknown Senator from Chicago.
PLEASE, MAKE NO MISTAKE MY PEOPLE, OPRAH PLAYED A BIG PART IN THE HISTORY MAKING EVENT, BUT GUESS WHO SACRIFICED THE MOST:
- YOU, THE AMERICAN BLACK PEOPLE - YOU TURNED OUT IN RECORD MAKING NUMBERS - YOU CAME TOGETHER WHEN WE NEEDED TO COME TOGETHER - YOU STOOD IN LINES FOR HOURS - YOU WERE DISCRIMINATED AGAINST - YES WE CAN - YOU LOST MONEY ON YOUR JOBS- YES WE CAN - YOUR CARS WERE TOWED AWAY - YES WE CAN - YOUR HEALTH WAS PUT AT RISK - YES WE CAN - SOME OF USE DIED TRYING TO VOTE - YES WE CAN
BLACK PEOPLE ...YOU NEED TO HOLD YOUR HEADS UP HIGH, FOR YOU DID A "*** GOOD JOB" AND SHOULD BE COMMENDED FOR IT. - YOU PROVED ONE THING AND THAT IS......WE CAN PULLED TOGETHER FOR THE GOOD OF "US" WHEN WE NEED TO......YES YES YES WE DANM "SHO" CAN!!!!!!!!
I AM SO PROUD TO BE BLACK, SO PROUD OF MY BLACK BROTHERS AND SISTERS ...NO MATTER WHAT YOUR STATUS... I LOVE YOU.
I TOO AM SO PROUD.....LET THIS BE THE FIRST STEP!!!!!
Let's not get it twisted. Oprah Winfrey announced that she'd endorse Obama. And she is greatly commended for being one of many powerful supporters who would follow her lead, to support Obamas run for the white house. Obama held his own thou. There were moments when his middle name,hussien had created some unexpected controversey, as some sectors of the media, fox news in particular, was trying to parrellel or demonize Obama to terrorist. He fought and triumphed on the grounds of that challenge. Then there was the Rev. Wright fiasco, Also, Sarah Palin, the *** in lipstick, and Obama had to fight his way through these challenges on his own. Its nothing to say I support Obama, but its another thing to be out there in the trenches taking political ***, loosing sleep, and risking the possiblities of making history or your career, for the sake of trying to do something you believe in. This man has overcome immeasurable odds and has earned his position, in the white house. And while I credit oprah for being amongst the first to openly endorse Obama, he had to and has prove his case on why he should be the president of the united states; and we the people responded in agreement with his ideas, by casting our votes to elect him, the president of this great country.
Yes! Oprah played a big role in this rather yall believe it or not she has.......Change is to come!
As President elect, he faces three immediate challenges: Confronting the worst economic conditions, since the Great Depression, determing the next steps in two lingering wars, and leading his Democrats, including librals expecting that the change he promises will come instantly .......
On the heels of a campaign in which cash wasn't a concern, Obama must tackel all of those tasks with no room in the budget as the nation heads for a painful, prehaps long-lasting recession..
No new president has faced so much since Franklin D Roosevelt ...even he didn't have two wars on his plate..
I always knew Oprah was down for black folks. I've never questioned that fact...just look how she's uplifting black folks in Africa through education. She is true blue and that is why I ordered subscriptions to both her O magazine's. When whitey was talking about boycotting her show and magazines...I was right there throwing my full support behind Ms. Oprah. Much love to her and President Barack Obama. We need more soldiers out there lifting up the black race. Those who bring death and destruction to our black people...like William Balfour can burn in hell.
Words can't even express how stupid I think the people at MTO are right now. In one breathe they just negated the hard work, sweat, perseverance, and sacrifice of thousands of people. Yes, Oprah was a big help and she was an extremely visible figure but what about the people that went knocking from door to door (like me)to muster up just one more vote for Obama or the Harvard Law student (my sister) that went to Ohio to make sure that voters were not intimidated and their voting rights were still in tact, or the struggling single mom (my aunt) that continuously gave a minimum of $50 each month so that Barack Obama could continue to get his message across. My point is that this was an American movement. To solely pin the vast majority the credit to one person is widely naive.
MTO, this is by far the most intelligent and best posts you have done. Very well stated. She certainly helped Obama's popularity. All in all, Thanks for commending Oprah for who she is. She really does get a bad rap. She cannot help because downtown Chicago is full of whites who love her and respect her. She cannot help that they are suburban housewives who can attend her show because they are “housewives”. (Many of us love her as well, but the average sista has to work during the day, and can’t get a ticket to see her. )She cannot help because they respect the fact that she is cultured and diversified. For this reason , she has to cater to them as well. I have always said that this in no way takes away from her “blackness” . As a matter of fact, looking at their smiling faces everyday likely gives her hope. Let’s face it, not all whites are racist. The statistics today in the media show that 63% of whites voted for Obama. Color was not a barrier for them, nor has it been for Oprah as she works with them everyday. Let’s all please explore our horizons as we go into a new age of unity. Kudo’s to MTO today. Tomorrow, yall will be trifling again. Lol !
@ Ohmy Words can't even express how stupid I think the people at MTO are right now. In one breathe they just negated the hard work, sweat, perseverance, and sacrifice of thousands of people. ***************I don’t think this posts takes away anything from your struggle, hardwork and vote. I think that MTO is just pointing out that big endorcements, like Oprah’s(which got it started) “helped” him get things really going..which in turn, led people like me, to really start taking note. Before Oprah, many people, including blacks(except in Chicago) were like “who is this man?”. We were like,” just another black man trying to run for president.” oh well". Let’s be honest., now. I'm not saying ALL, but most of us felt that way. Maybe not even you, but the concensus in Atlanta was very low, until after Oprah and the Iowa Caucauses. Blacks were divided and many were supporting Hillary. Oprah’s voice and endorcement made many take note of him, it gave him more press and media, additional buzz , more popularity on websites, among youth, among other celebrities..etc. I’m sorry, but MTO does not know 'you" personally , they are just acknowledging someone that “we” do all know. And that is Oprah. Acknowledging her is totally separate from acknowledging the many people that gave and contributed. It’s a separate issue. all of your efforts are appreciated. He would not have made it across this hurdle without volunteers and without donations. I'm appreciative of everyone and everything that led to yesterday.
yall need to stick to the gossip and leave social commentary to the Times, this must be the dumbest statement ever made.
It would not have happened if it wasn't for Oprah? Really? The same Oprah who brought Pres. Bush on her show and endorsed him.
Barack Obama was Barack Obama before he met Oprah and would have been as great without her.
Whoever went into the booth saying I would not have been doing this if it wasn't for Oprah.
chill with the dumb ish
Okay first things first, MTO let's be real yes, Oprah's endorsement helped but I am one woman that doesn't care much for her show and he won because his footsteps were Ordered and Ordained by GOD she's Oprah because her footsteps were Ordered and Ordained by GOD so let's give GOD the Glory and the praise FIRST. Then we as American people came out and did what they said couldn't be done so we get the praise SECOND. and for this idiot whose post is at follows: Ore0Hearts I can't help but feel the election was stolen and that a recount is in order. My highly intelligent white boyfriend told me so and I believe him. Let wait until all the votes a counted. Be realistic when Bush stole the election what was your highly intelligent white boyfriend saying then? Get your own mind sweetie and unite to make this a great nation again.
GOD BLESS YOU PRESIDENT OBAMA: MATTHEW 20:16
Thank you MTO, because you are right. Oprah did put this thing on the map. She did put her credibility, ratings, and reputation, on the line to step this brother up. She did the same thing for a few other African Americans that she really liked. She Knew Obama was the man, and she gambled and won real big. Let's please do give Oprah props because Obama had so much money for his campaign, and where do you think most of that money came from? My guess is the big O.
I enjoy reading MTO, but 2 say Oprah helped President Obama win is the craziest thing I've ever read on this site. If anyone who works at this site saw Mr. Obama at the 2004 DNC knew then he was destined for greatness. To say that greatly minimizes what we all were blessed enough to witness last ***. He won on his own merit. Celebs never helped anyone win anything, ask John Kerry.
@OreoHearts: I'm pretty sure you posted your comment to encite an arguement, but I'm too grown for that. I just want to say to you: for the past eight years, this country has been divided, and for God knows how many years our people (your people, too despite who's piping you know) have been divided.
Please let us celebrate this victory without throwing salt on it. If you have to express those types of views, go to a website that is supporting McCain. We have waited over a hundred years for this, and we don't need haters like you and your boyfriend trying to drag this through the mud.
Why is Oprah being credited for launching Obama into his candidacy? He did it, his ideals, conscious thinking, hope for the betterment of the nation, and endless ambition launched him into the candidacy and ultimately the presidency with the help of his lovely wife ofcourse. Oprah among others endorsed Obama and supported him but he had the message that carried over to and inspired so many across a broader spectrum than anyone would've imagined and with that he earned the election.
MTO, yall really need to become a little more intelligent with these comments. That's completely ignorant to think that Barack would have probably not been nominated if it werent for Oprah. Barack had to fight every day for 2 years stumping, and we saw Oprah once. Women stopped watching her because of it. MTO, please, sometime your ignorance is sad... Don't post titles that aren't true. Barack worked hard for this, so say that please.
Oprah DID have something to do with Barack's win...When everyone who didn't even know who he was, what he stood for, doubted him and told him to WAIT, Oprah was there encouraging him and supporting him...She invested in him...So sit down saying she didn't have anything to do with it...Obama didn't have any funds in the beginning to make this happen...
Thank you God...Thank you Oprah...and Thank you to the American people who saw past this man's skin color and knew that he was and IS the TRUTH!
Tavis Smiley did NOT attack President-elect Obama on MSNBC...that is a LIE! I'll get back to this at the end of my post.
Where do I begin? Last ***, I sat and watched the election with my family, and held my breath as each state was called in favor of President -elect Obama. I am a 27 year-old Black woman, and I never thought that I would witness this day. My father is a college graduate and a retired school teacher, and my mother is a "domestic engineer" (housewife). My parents raised my brother and I to believe that we could accomplish anything if we worked hard and trusted the Lord. Both of us are now college graduates, we have a strong faith in God, and we are hard workers, but I didn't think this would happen in our lifetime. My parents were right! While we still have many hurdles to leap as a people, this is a step in the right direction. I am incredibly humbled by this experience and thrilled that I can now tell my future children and grand-children that I was a part of this historical milestone.
President-elect Obama ran a brilliant campaign from start to finish. He held to his platform, and refused to resort to the typical partisan games that have divided this country for far too long. I have NEVER seen a presidential candidate face the type of adversity that he endured day after day. Think about this: Obama's patriotism was reduced to a "flag pin" and a "flag salute," his integrity was questioned because of the church that he attended, and the list goes on. I am saddened by the fact that he had to severe ties with Rev. Wright, a man who he truly loved and admired. While Rev. Wright's comments were harsh, they were historically accurate and indicative of the anger that manifests when dreams are deferred, when folks are forced to accept the racism and bigotry that is at the core of our national policies and ideology. Rev. Wright spoke on behalf of many of our parents and grandparents. I pray that there is a reconciliation between the two, if possible.
It was mentioned in another post that Tavis Smiley was blasting Obama on MSNBC. That is FAR from the truth! Smiley gave one of the most passionate and intelligent responses that I have heard thus far. Please google it for yourself. He mentioned that President-elect Obama is now an iconic figure, and as such, he is under a tremendous amount of pressure. I TOTALLY agree with him. Unfortunately, there will be those who require that Obama accomplish "unrealistic" goals. There will be those who demand that he be TWICE as good as the 43 presidents who came before him. There will be the naysayers who accuse him of being too militant if he recommends laws that are favorable to ethnic minorities or those of lower socio-economic status. He will also have to face the hard task-masters in the Black community who will accuse him of being an Uncle Tom when he tries to be the president of ALL citizens; many have acquired this label over the years! There are MANY issues that we must resolve as a nation, domestically and internationally. I am glad that Obama reminded us of the days that await us, and the work-ethic that is required to endure these tough times.
Again, Tavis Smiley was on point! I am a nonpartisan, conservative voter who disagreed with Obama on a few issues. Nonetheless, I think that diversity and equality prevailed on Tuesday ***, and that is what makes his victory all the more special. Don't think for a minute that Obama's only supporters were Black, liberal, Democrat, or ***/***. Colin Powell said it best - Obama is a transformational candidate who crossed ALL boundaries. Let's pray for his safety, and for the protection of First Lady Obama and their beautiful children.
@OreoHearts
You sound like a dumb azz wanna be, and when your highly intelligent white boyfriend leave your black monkey azz because your a "DUMB DUMB" please dont come back to the black community with your fleabag azz looking for a man. It is people like you that will always keep the crab in the barrel syndrome still alive. GROW UP & LEARN TO LOVE YOURSELF. Did you know that you can love interracially and still love yourself?
MAN YALL CANT BE SERIOUS. OFCOURSE OPRAH DIDNT DO IT ALL BUT SHE PLAYED A MAJOR ROLE IN THOSE NUMBERS. YALL BETTA DO UR HOMEWORK, WHAT EVER OPRAH ENDORSES IT'S GONNA BE A WINNER.I DONT CARE IF SHE ENDORSES A PIECE OF GRASS, SHE HAS ACCESS TO A CERTAIN DEMOGRAPHIC GROUP THAT ALL OF US CANT ACCESS SO LETS GIVE CREDIT WHERE ITS DUE. YEAH OBAMA IS OVER QUALIFIED (COMPARED TO HIS OPPONENTS) BUT A LOT OF THEM OLD RICH WHITE FOLKS(REPUBLICANS) DIDNT CARE ABOUT THAT. IM JUST SO HAPPY TO SEE SO MANY IMPORTANT FIGURES (WHO WE FELT ABANDONED THEIR RACE)OPRAH, POWELL,RICE HAVE BEEN OVERJOYED BY THIS GREAT VICTORY.
No one is denying Oprahs contribution (espicially MTO which has so boldly choosen to exalt and inflate her contribution while concurrently neglecting to mention the hundreds of thousands of unseen voices of this historic campaing). We could debate this all day long but to say"Let's not forget that Obama's election would not have happened if it weren't for Oprah Winfrey" is shallow thinking at its best. Lastly, @fire4u Obviously I know MTO does not no me and for you to suggest something like that means you missed my point. This election is not just about my hard work, Opraph's hard work, or whoever. It's about the collective participation and to just sigle out one participant is unfair.
Everybody wanna bash Oprah but she played a very important role far as the MEDIA attention goes that BARACK needed! When he first started running I thought he was CRAZY and they was just wasting their time. That is BLACK on BLACK LOVE helping your fellow man achieve a higher GOAL much needed for us as AMERICAN PEOPLE!!!
I don't give Oprah all the credit but *** IT she pulled a lotta weight just showing face and being there she's known worlwide....
DID I MENTION Obama is sexy as hell with them black *** lips.....
We painted the Whitehouse BLACK!!!
MTO Imma need yall not to be given credit to her like she was the end all be all. She contributed just like millions of other people did, one person cannot take credit for this man’s great success. With or without her, I believe he would still be in this position. Furthermore, credit is first given to God, cause without him nothing is possible. So now all you MTO staff need to go read a bible scripture and rewrite this story like God gave yall some sense. Good Day and Good *** MTO
Yes Oprah was one of the few whom believed when not many others did. Earlier today I caught about 15 minutes of The View and there was a black political advisor whom knew both Obama and Hilary, whom was promoting his book. The ladies asked him something along the lines of "You told Barack that this wasn't his time" (when he was running for the senate, and both the presidency), and of course the author brought up statistics (excuses) for his reasoning. That makes me sad, I mean. If we don't believe in us...whom will? Why should we believe that we can't have anything we want? Why do we instill fear of society into our children? You don't hear whites "advising" their people whom are interested in running in a state position to "back down" and "it's not our time". First and foremost, we're Americans, then we're Black. If you are an American-of any race, then you can do it.
God Bless Oprah and President-Elect Obama. I've always loved Oprah and knew that she was always working to help blacks behind the scenes. Miss Winfrey has sponsored 100 black males at Moorehouse College (full-tuiton) for many years now. Those in the know, understand who Miss Winfrey really is and understand that her multi-media empire has given her the platform, the voice and the money to help all of us in enldess ways.
I can't believe people on other websites are calling Oprah a racist, saying she hates white people. I couldn't disagree more! This lady has bent over backwards for them, paying their tuitions, buying homes, cars, etc. I am so glad she wasn't afraid to speak out in this campaign regardless of what people would say. I have respected her before but, now I respect her much more.
I think some of ya'll are not getting the point of this article. Obama did his thing and ran one of the best campaigns anyone has ever seen in this country, BUT if Oprah wouldn't have been there in the BEGINNING he may have not gone this far. Yes, it was the voters that put him in the White House, but Oprah had a bigger hand in helping him to get on that path. I don't know why some of ya'll are having a hard time giving a Black woman the props she deserves.
Oprah has not put any money in my pocket so she can not influence my pick for President.
I love Oprah and she would expect for you to do your research before making your decision on who should be your next President.
I decided to listen to all of the Democrats and Obama sold himself easily out of them all.
I first listen to Obama speech at the DNC.
I love me some Oprah!!!Obama has made histrory and I hope he won't be like these South Africans who are placed in powerfull positions only to turn in to greedy, corupt, power-hungry oportunists.. I hate SA these days..I swear if Zuma gets elected,I'm grabing my *** out of this *** county..& Im taking my skills and money with me..
WRONG!!!!!!!!!
The Oprah endorsement helped, but to say he may not have won without her is giving her a bit too much credit. Keep it real, there are more whites in America than blacks and he won cause he was able to turn their heads and help them check those pocketbooks and see the condition we are in.
Oprah gets some credit but MTO and others... u are doing waaay too much. I know some of you follow her like mindless sheep, but not everyone. I dont even watch Oprah and I knew what time it was! Oprah only cast 1 vote... it took everyone else to help this along.
CONGRATS MR. PRESIDENT
MTO. Oprah isn't GOD! BARACK, his INTELLIGENCE, his INTEGRITY, his AMBITION and his VISION won that race. PERIOD.
I'm with FNH1228 on this one! I haven't watched Oprah in over 10 years! I might watch RANDOM episodes when she has celebrities I like on there -- Like Denzel or Joaquin. But that's it.
BIG UP TO OBAMA! You did it BABY! WE did it!
Sidebar: Now I DO admire Oprah's story as SHE TOO is an shining example of how a black person can overcome ANYTHING life dishes them with grace, dignity and veracity.
HOWEVER, I also DO think she lined his pockets something nice with all those campaign "donations". Hence his ability to finance his campaign so lovely. Now THAT is black on black support!
GO Oprah! Can I have some? LOL
Although Oprah helped Obama a bit in this election. You're completely wrong to say that if she hadn't endorsed him he wouldn't have won. Obama won this election because of his intelligence, his knowledge, and his messege that touched the people of this country. ANother reason he won is becasue he flat out had a killer campaign. Do not dismiss his win as some victory from Oprah.
Oprah had NOTHING to do with Obama's win; in fact, she might have cost him a few votes because there are a LOT of black women and some white ones who have stopped drinking the Oprah Kool-Aid a long, long time ago. Oprah is very annoying and the one comedienne who is not afraid to say so is Kathy Griffin. Oprah always has to outdo everyone; whatever they say, that's what she says too. Her friend Gail started dating Corey Booker, goodlooking, younger and mayor of Newark and Oprah who is rumored to have found him first and flirted with him first, went straight to Obama whom she knew peripherally but was not the best of friends with. Sure, she supported his announcement that he was running but did you see how many white women became incensed with her for having done so? Because the majority of Oprah's audience and followers are white women, not black ones; they were angry that she chose to support Obama over Clinton. She was very vocal and adamantly told them to go to h... Then, suddenly, she was completely quiet about his presidential bid. Why? Obama had a righteous wind at his back and it was never Oprah. All the blacks combined, all the black young people, all the young white people, all the smart people, all the people who were sick of stupid Bush, all Obama's brilliance, etc. It was not Oprah, at all, who won it for him but all the previously mentioned and other factors too numerous to name, but not Oprah one tiny bit.
