Sociologists: How did you feel about Obama's speech on race?

Question

Did you feel like he communicated the African American experience well? Did he give an accurate portrayal of racial differences in religion? Any criticisms?

Please mention in your answer if you've studied sociology or not.

Answer 1

I think the strongest moments of his speech were when he pointed out the generational differences (i.e., the eras of Rev. Wright and Barack's own grandmother, where racism was perhaps more evident and prevalent) and the issue of "white racism" versus immigrant populations.

That said, I'm not sure that it captured the "African American" experience of younger generations - the crime, the drugs, etc. that have come with increased urbanization.  He mentioned this only briefly.

With regard to religion, I don't feel he really treated it with anything more than lip service.  Just because Rev. Wright is an African American, why is he railing against Jews?  Obama seemed to dismiss this aspect.

(I have a degree in Sociology and am working on my Master's thesis at the moment)

Answer 2

He can communicate the experience pretty good, which is why he will get 99% of the black vote regardless of what he does.

I have taken college courses in Sociology, but that does not validate my opinion.

:)