On November 4, 2008, the citizens of the United States of America elected Barack Obama as their first African-American president.

For a nation founded on the principles of freedom and democracy that refused to extend equal rights and liberties to black Americans for almost 200 years, to many Americans the election of this country’s first African American president signifies a defining moment in our history and is celebrated with hope and pride for the progress this country has made.

For some, Obama’s victory was a reminder of the discrimination and prejudice that dominated American history for far too long and, despite significant progress, still exists today.

Others expressed the sentiment that the color of Obama’s skin was irrelevant and the election of a black president is “no big deal.” Sadly, some Americans have responded with expressions of bigotry and hatred with words and actions that have reopened old wounds and introduced a new generation to the hostility and division caused by racism and misunderstanding.

As the significance of Obama’s approaching presidency is debated across the world on blogs, talk shows and even from the pulpits of some churches, young Americans are clearly engaged in the effort to give meaning to his election. Their curiosity, insight, and participation are paramount in this conversation as they represent the future of this country.

While our state has had no reported incidents of conflict between students – which unfortunately has been reported elsewhere across the United States – discussions centering on the election of Obama are undoubtedly surfacing not only in our schools but also in homes and communities across Louisiana.

I encourage teachers, school leaders, families and community leaders to facilitate healthy, productive conversations about President-elect Obama and what his election means for our country, especially for African-Americans. If we, as adults, help young people talk about this event in a constructive, non-threatening way without limiting or down-playing their feelings, enthusiasm or anxiety, we can continue building bridges that will connect them to a future where prejudice in this country has not only diminished, but has disappeared.