Speech Sparks Candor on Race

Churches, advocates, universities say race taboos have been lifted

By Jonas Oransky, Newser Staff

Posted Mar 20, 2008 3:44 PM CDT

(Newser) – While a verdict on the political wisdom of Barack Obama’s race address might be months in the coming, the speech has sparked a national conversation on the topic, the New York Times reports—with universities, churches and TV commentators chiming in. The Tuesday speech is the top video on YouTube; one pastor called it a “Rorschach inkblot test” for national feelings on race.

Barbara Walters proclaimed on The View, “Finally we can talk about” race “without being afraid we are offending” anyone, and co-host Whoopi Goldberg said questions “that we tiptoe around” are now on the table. Even Fox’s Bill O’Reilly found much to admire, the Times reports. Students expressed excitement to return from spring break and dig in on formerly taboo topics.

Michelle Obama, wife of Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama D-Ill., listens to her husband speak. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama D-Ill., speaks about race during a news conference in Philadelphia, Tuesday, March 18, 2008. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

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Speech Sparks Candor on Race

Churches, advocates, universities say race taboos have been lifted

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Barack Obama • YouTube • race • Bill O'Reilly • Barbara Walters • Whoopi Goldberg

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It could have been 'historic teaching moment,' writes Gregory Rodriguez

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O'Reilly gets huge audience, Obama gets to look good

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Speech Sparks Candor on Race

Churches, advocates, universities say race taboos have been lifted

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

Barack Obama • YouTube • race • Bill O'Reilly • Barbara Walters • Whoopi Goldberg

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

[ By Comments ]

More Newser Stories

Rosie Stands Up for View Gals After O'Reilly Walkout

At least they still see eye-to-eye on some things

Obama Only Marked Black on Census—Unfortunately

It could have been 'historic teaching moment,' writes Gregory Rodriguez

O'Reilly's Obama Interview Surprisingly Pleasant

And it's not over: More will air tomorrow

Pre-Game Interview Could Help Obama and O'Reilly

O'Reilly gets huge audience, Obama gets to look good

Showdown? Bill O'Reilly Heads Back to The View

One co-host is ready for him; another plans to skip the drama

About Us

Site

Newser By Users

Community

Site Maps

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More News

What is Newser?