Black Kids Think Big Thanks to Obama

In response to question about race, president checks one box

(NEWSER) - When he filled out his census form yesterday, President Obama identified himself as African-American. The son of a black Kenyan and a white Kansan, Obama had the option to check more than one box. He didn't hesitate before choosing "Black, African Am., or Negro," White House press secretary Robert Gibbs tells USA Today . The first family's form also reflected the fact that Michelle Obama's mother, Marian Robinson, lives with the Obamas in the White House, notes the AP . More»

Republicans denounce speech as 'socialist' indoctrination

(NEWSER) - Conservative critics are blasting President Obama’s plan to give a speech on education in Virginia next week as a ploy to brainwash the nation’s children, the Washington Post reports. The address, which the White House is encouraging educators and students to watch, is part of a push to “spread President Obama's socialist ideology," says the Florida Republican Party chair. More»

But prez should get the facts on Gates bust first

(NEWSER) - Asked if he blamed President Obama for saying he’d “acted stupidly” in arresting Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates, Cambridge Sgt. James Crowley took the high road, the Boston Globe reports. He told a radio show today it was “regrettable” that anyone would speak without knowing the “whole story,” but declined to criticize Obama directly, even when the host declared, “the president of the United States owes you an apology.” More»

Apparently he meant it in a good way

(NEWSER) - A Turkish newscaster delivered his report on President Obama’s trip to Turkey in blackface, the Huffington Post reports, in what was apparently supposed to be a strange tribute. Roughly translated, the anchor is saying, “Welcome, Mr Obama. You took our hearts with your hospitality. ... We will do whatever America asks of us, as friends. Now, we ask the same of you.” More»

(NEWSER) - From churches to hair salons, Washington’s black institutions are gunning for the Obamas’ patronage, the Washington Post reports. Many in the largely black city feel a sense of camaraderie with the first couple—and know that making a connection with the town's hottest celebrities would be “a tremendous social coup,” said Jackie Kennedy’s former chief of staff. More»