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Black DC Vies for First Couple's Attention

By Matt Cantor, Newser Staff

Posted Feb 9, 2009 10:47 AM CST

(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.

"He's one of the first big-city presidents, so he understands the urban environment," a DC councilman noted. Those interested in connecting with the Obamas aren’t just in it for themselves, said a Georgetown professor. Many are hoping to "nurture" the family, offering the "watch care" many black churches give. "It's like you may be a member of another church, but while you are in this city, we're going to watch out for you."

Members of the congregation at the Foundry United Methodist Church attend a service Sunday, Nov. 16, 2008, in Washington. Churches in the nation's capital have extended invitations to the Obamas. (AP Photo/Luis M. Alvarez)

A pastor delivers his sermon at Metropolitan AME Church Sunday, Nov. 16, 2008, in Washington. An administrator there says having the Obamas "would be a feather in one's cap." (AP Photo/Luis M. Alvarez)

Then-President-elect Barack Obama arrives to play golf in Kailua, Hawaii Sunday, Dec. 21, 2008. A DC golf course is hoping for Obama's patronage. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

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That's more than double the proportion from 2007: analysis

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

Barack Obama • Michelle Obama • black community • Washington, DC • African-Americans • President Obama

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

[ By Comments ]

More Newser Stories

Detroit Bust Would've Been Better Than Bailout

Ex-Prez Bush says bailout his idea, and a good one

Obama Unveils $3.8T Budget, Targets Rich

Budget would institute 'Buffett Rule,' boost infrastructure

White House to Budge on Birth-Control Mandate

'Accommodation' for religious employers will likely be announced today

Small Donors Gave 48% of Obama's 2011 Donations

That's more than double the proportion from 2007: analysis

No Child Left Behind Waiver Granted to 10 States

At least 28 more plan to seek one

About Us

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Newser By Users

Community

Site Maps

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What is Newser?