Commentary: So what if Obama were a Muslim or an Arab?

Right now, our country is going thourgh elections. Our candidates as of today are Sen. Obama (Democrat) and Sen. McCain (Republic). CNNs anchor Campbell Brown points out the racial fact that some people have on Sen. Obama. Some example questions being asked now still are "what is Obamas ethnicity and religion?". At one of Sen. McCains rally a women said, " I don't trust Obama. I have read about him and he's an Arab." Sen. McCain replyed as he corrected the women at the rally "He is a decent family man, citizen that I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues. That's what this campaign is all about." Brown questioned "would it matter?" That is a question I would also like to know. Others would be; what if it wasn't Sen. Obama who was African American but Sen. McCain? Would it change her mind on who she should vote for? If so, why? How about if the candidate was a little too short or tall, too hairy, or disabled like FDR? Yes not many knew about FDRs disability but he was a great leader. He led through some big historical events like the Great Depression.

Its true that Omaba would be the first president who is African American if he was to win the election but why would it matter if he was African American, Hispanic, Asian, Arab, or ect. He is just as eligable as Sen. McCain is for a position in a higher office in our country. That's what makes the US different from everywhere else. We don't judge on people based on their ethnicity or religion but on their qualifications. Brown asked, "when did that(ethnicity) become a disqualifier for higher office in our country, when did Arab and Muslim become dirty words, and the equivalent of dishonorable or racial?" Honestly in my opinion it wouldn't make a difference because no matter what they look like or what they believe in, its about what they can do for us, the people of the US, to help make our country a better and safer place. Brown said, " I feel like I am stating the obvious here, but apparently it needs to be said: There is a difference between radical Muslims who suppoet jihad against American and Muslims who want to practice their religion freely and have normal lives like anyone else. We can't tolerate this ignorance--not in the media and not on the campaign trail. Of course, he's not a Arab. Of course, he's not a Muslim. But honestly, it shouldn't matter." I agree with this statement and I hope eventually everyone will get around to it too. In conclusion, this article was definantly worth reading and can be found on the CNN website.