Cornel West: "Why Brother Bernie Is Better for Black People Than Sister Hillary"
The future of American democracy depends on our response to the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. And that legacy is not just about defending civil rights; its also about fighting to fix our rigged economy, which yields grotesque wealth inequality; our narcissistic culture, which unleashes obscene greed; our market-driven media, which thrives on xenophobic entertainment; and our militaristic prowess, which promotes hawkish policies around the world. The fundamental aim of black votersand any voters with a deep moral concern for our public interest and common goodshould be to put a smile on Martins face from the grave.
The conventional wisdom holds that, in the Democratic primary, Hillary Clinton is the candidate who will win over African-American votersthat her rival, Bernie Sanders, performed well in Iowa and won New Hampshire on account of those states disproportionate whiteness, and that Clintons odds are better in the upcoming contests in South Carolina and Nevada, two highly diverse states.
But in fact, when it comes to advancing Dr. Kings legacy, a vote for Clinton not only falls far short of the mark; it prevents us from giving new life to Kings legacy. Instead, it is Sanders who has championed that legacy in word and in deed for 50 years. This election is not a mere campaign; it is a crusade to resurrect democracyKing-stylein our time. In 2016, Sanders is the one leading that crusade.
Now, with Obamas departure from the White House, we shall see clearly where black America stands in relation to Kings legacy. Will voters put a smile on Martins face? Its clear how we can do it. King smiles at Sanders deep integrity and genuine conviction, while he weeps at the Clinton machines crass opportunism and the inequality and injustice it breeds.
Full article:
http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2016/02/bernie-sanders-african-americans-cornel-west-hillary-clinton-213627