Electoral Politics and Party Identity

Some political theorists suggest that the principles and policies of the Democratic and Republican parties are becoming indistinguishable relative to the economic, social and political interests of African Americans. Consequently, the idea of a black independent party, which has roots in black nationalist movements of the 19th and 20th centuries, has been revived. Do you think that the election of Obama as president has changed this perceived need or actual viability of an independent third political party?

Still on the Obama Watch

How can the mass media representations of the Obamas as a family, and of the President and First Lady as individuals, on television and in magazines, contribute to a more positive socialization of other African American women and men? Why are their images important and useful in comparison to the racial stereotypes that exist, as well as in relation to strict and separate social roles of male and female behavior?