Maori Party congratulates Barack Obama
Dr Pita Sharples and Hon Tariana Turia, Co-leaders
Hone Harawira, Foreign Affairs spokesperson 5 June 2008

The Maori Party leadership has welcomed the outcome of the Democratic Party nomination contest for the US Presidential candidate.

“The contest for a Democratic nominee for President has dominated world headlines for months,” said co-leaders Tariana Turia and Pita Sharples, “and we’re rapt that Obama has won the day”.

“One small step for America, one giant leap for people of colour the world over,” is how Foreign Affairs spokesperson Hone Harawira, described Barack Obama’s winning of the Democratic nomination for the presidency of the United States of America.

“It’s hard to believe, but it’s looking likely that a Black man will be the next president of the USA,” said Mr Harawira. “He’s African-American, he has the appeal of Martin Luther King, the backing of the Kennedy clan, the rapturous support of millions of Black Americans, and growing support from new voters registering to back the champion of hope and change.”

“Obama’s call for dialogue across political lines has touched the public heart,” said Harawira, “and his oratory continues to soar above the cynical point-scoring of candidates whose rhetoric has exhausted and alienated Americans.”

“In a country torn by division, and wearied by an unwanted war, Barack Obama is fresh, enthusiastic, optimistic, and positive. He has already broken barriers and challenged conventions. He has excited people wherever he has gone, and engaged millions in politics for the first time in their lives.

“Obama’s message for change is the same message that the Maori Party carries, and his hope for a brighter future is a message we embrace as well,” said Mrs Turia.

“We’re going to be busy with our own election while the US presidential race is on, but we wish Obama well,” said Harawira. “He’s got a long way to go yet, a lot of old prejudices to overcome, and a lot of unrealistic fears to put to bed, but if anyone can do it, Obama can.”

“His success is an inspiration to the Maori Party, and to all people of colour seeking to change the way politics is conducted all over the world,” said Dr Sharples.

ENDS

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