In November 2008, john a. powell, then Executive Director of the Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnicity at The Ohio State University, spoke about the “Outlook for an Obama Presidency.” powell remarked that the election of President Barack Obama would usher in greater change and cooperation on important issues such as climate change and the financial crisis. powell also commented that Obama’s election would open up new possibilities with regards to race relations and make it clear that America is a country for all people. Lastly, powell discussed how Obama’s election could lead to a realignment of the country between the South and the rest of the country and offer an opportunity for the country to be more united.
