HOPE VERSUS REALITY: UNMASKING THE PARADOX OF OBAMA’S POST-RACIAL VISION AND ITS IMPACT ON AMERICA’S RACIAL LANDSCAPE

Abstract

This paper examines post-racialism during Obama's presidency, revealing its limitations and unintended consequences. It discusses the belief in a colorblind society free from racial bias, popularized after Obama's election. Contrary to long-held beliefs, it uncovers how colorblindness conceals the root causes of racism and perpetuates systemic inequalities. This paper analyzes the impact of Obama's embrace of post-racialism on public discourse and racial attitudes, emphasizing the role of media and the temporary nature of the rally effect. It also explores the unintended consequences of Obama's race-neutral policies, which overlooked race-specific issues and failed to address racial inequalities effectively. This paper also demonstrates the need to confront and address racial inequalities through proactive engagement and race-specific policies.