In a survey done just before the inauguration, more than 200 people in 14 states were asked by The New York Times to identify their greatest hopes for what Barack Obama might accomplish during his time as president. Then, tens of thousands joined the survey over the internet, citing their highest hopes for the new administration.
The top 5 answers and the number of respondents who gave them are:
1. Universal health care - 8405
2. Environment - 7414
3. Economy - 6724
4. Education - 6629
5. Ending the War - 6584
Many people have expressed their wish that Obama will start working to implement universal health care and fix the economy. "All of our hopes are hinged upon a stable economy," said one respondent from New York.
In Los Angeles, I’ve asked several Filipino Americans on their thoughts about the new President-elect and their hopes for the future.
A marketing executive in a national corporation, Theresa Cordero, said, "I’m happy that Obama has inspired many and ignited hope in the hearts of many Americans, especially the minorities. In this crisis situation, I hope he will be able to fulfill his campaign promises. I also hope that Obama will take a more centrist approach especially on social issues. "
Speaking for the Asian minorities, most especially the Fil-Am community, Charina Carrera of the National Association of Filipino Americans (NAFA) stated, "The face of new leadership has finally gotten into reality. Being a Gen X myself, we are now entering a dawn of a new beginning. I believe many of us will learn from his leadership style about power that comes from the bottom up, not just from the top down. It is about time that we, the so-called "minorities" must also be heard. For me, this is the essence of empowerment and leadership focusing on collaboration."
Sylvia Claeys from North Hills ex pressed her expectations for the future. "Barack Obama symbolizes Hope and Change to a lot of people, especially the poor. He takes on the challenge head on and though he is not promising a miracle in the solution of our country’s problems, he is however promising to resolve the people’s concerns in his best capacity. I hope the administration would be able to work together toward a better economy for the good of all and that with combined efforts be able to stop the war in Iraq and send our troops home. I also hope that a better health support system will be implemented to allow every citizen to have health coverage. Along with all these, it is my hope that the new administration will put emphasis on education because the young people of today are really the hope of the future," said Sylvia.
The senior pastor of Word International Ministries-Los Angeles, Alberto "Chito" Cordero, explained what he thinks about the new president. "He appears to be very popular and likeable, " said Cordero. " I am cautiously awaiting the effects of his policies, particularly with regards to abortion. He has a gargantuan task ahead of him and will definitely need our prayers. We will surely be praying for him for our sakes. No one will be equal to the task without the Lord’s help," he added.
An area of concern for Cristy Cardeno, a state employee, is illegal immigration. Cardeno believes the country can save a lot in terms of finances if they can focus on and solve the problems of illegal immigration and border security. "This area is my concern because they’re getting larger and even the previous administration could not solve this,"Cristy explained. "I also hope the new administration will remain supportive of faith-based organizations just like the Bush administration was," said Cristy.
Liliana Salcido expressed hope that Obama will help immigrants. "I hope this government will make a real change for people who come to America from other countries. They should have a better situation with better opportunities," she said.
( Published on January 21 2009 in MDWK Magazine p. 2 )
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