Reflection on the Outcome of the 2008 Election

By Jamela Joseph
Tuesday, Nov. 4, was a day that I would remember forever. I jumped out of my seat in Howard University’s Blackburn Ballroom full of excited students and faculty shouting with joy as we looked to the screen to see that Barack Obama had won another state. Iowa! Students performed original pieces of inspirational poetry, danced to the upbeat music, chanted “Obama!” as our hearts continued to beat faster and faster as the clock ticked.

Throughout the night, I made eye contact with a few of my school mates, connecting through our tears of joy. Suddenly, a new update at around 11 p.m.! I tried hard to see what CNN was revealing, but I simply could not see above the other anxious students standing tall on the chairs in front of me. The room instantly transformed into a place with even more exuberant and ecstatic individuals overcome with happiness, shouting, yelling and crying.

Though I had not yet seen what was on the screen, I, too, began to shout. As the yells grew louder and the tears grew stronger, I suddenly knew what the screen read. I looked deep into the eyes of my friend and I could see her mouth moving but I could not make out the words. However, it did not matter, I felt her energy and I knew my president was black.

I glared at the screen and saw, "Barack Obama Elected President." I became almost static for a few seconds, while a million things ran through my head. I thought about all that my black people have been through and have worked hard for and then suddenly launched off my feet and jumped around the room, hugging the people around me. Being such a calm person, I do not think that I ever celebrated in that manner. I was elated! My eyes continued to pour with tears as I stood proud, looking up to the ceiling, thanking God. I was happy to glance at my phone to find voicemails and text messages of excited friends and family members in California, where it was only 8 p.m.

We linked arms to sing “We shall overcome” and raised our fists to “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and then heard the powerful words given by the great Professor Greg Carr and prayer delivered by a Howard student. As I laughed, cried, smiled and took pictures, R&B singer Ryan Leslie put on an upbeat performance that coincided with the joyful mood. I walked out of the room with red eyes, hugging individuals, making phone calls and sending messages to my loved ones. I was so proud of Barack Obama and felt truly blessed to be a part of this beautiful, historical day at Howard University.

Yes we can!