Hatemongering right-wingers have been using Obama's name to attack him. It's only-slightly-disguised bigotry. Obama sounds like Osama, Hussein is the late, unlamented dictator, while Barack is strangely foreign and rhymes with Iraq. It's primitive tribalism --a way of calling Barack "foreign" or "un-American" without actually using the words. Although Obama generally calls himself "Barack Obama," foxnewsistas and McCain surrogates like to chant, "Barack Hussein Obama." You can hear them waiting for the audience to hiss.
In response, supporters of Obama have adopted Hussein as their own middle name. There's a good article in The New York Times: (June 29, 2008: "Obama Supporters Take his Name as their Own"). "I am sick. of Republicans pronouncing Barack Obama’s name like it was some sort of cuss word,” one commentator wrote in a manifesto titled “We Are All Hussein.”
So today, Vivian de St. Vrain joins the movement and proudly announces that henceforth the proper designation is "Vivian Hussein de St. Vrain." It has a nice lilt, doesn't it?
Go Blue! Go Dems! Go Barack! Yes we can! Yes we can!
Dear Vivian,
I came upon your blog when I was looking for an article about one of my uncles in New York City in the 1950s. I'm fascinated with your stories and it appears that we share a lot of history. Do you ever correspond with people via email? If so, you can reach me at the email address above. Also, are you thinking of writing a book? You certainly have the talent, as well as the requisite sense of humor and gift with words to do so! I hope to hear back from you soon. Thank you.
Warmest Regards,
Ann Moore
Posted by: Ann | August 19, 2008 at 06:35 PM
I've read that Obama's iPod playlist includes Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Bob Dylan and some rappers. I still like him.
OJHB
Posted by: Otis Jefferson Brown | July 01, 2008 at 06:46 AM
Gobama!
Otis J.H. Brown
Posted by: Otis Jefferson Brown | July 01, 2008 at 03:03 AM