As we celebrate Christmas and head toward the end of 2020 — Reflecting on the past can be a common theme.
Today, I chose to listen to Trevor Noah’s interview with President Obama from earlier this month. In my own reflections, I find irony in the fact that my first impression of Trevor Noah was — who is this guy replacing Jon Stewart? He’s not really funny. He’s certainly not anything like Jon Stewart.
And while I supported Obama as he ran for Senate, thought he was a superb orator, I didn’t quite get the fervor over his campaign for president. And frankly, while I thought he led the country with an even-keeled hand, I could see decisions he made that I disagreed with. Heck, both my father and I both thought Michelle, would actually make the better President, LOL.
Fast forward to 2020, I think Trevor Noah nailed his coverage of the Trump presidency, reflecting on his experience with authoritarianism in Africa. He has provided some of the greatest insights during the very dark combination of a raging pandemic and a crazy presidency with his Daily Social Distancing Show.
And here he speaks with former President Barack Obama, putting on display a level of hubris and reflection from the man whose legacy Donald Trump sought to destroy. I really do respect the insights Obama brings and was relieved when Obama chose to re-enter the public spotlight to bring contrast to the message — rather, the snake-oil — that Donald Trump was selling to the American Public.
I truly think this interview is one that should not be missed.
Highlights include around the 8 min mark. — Leadership programs in Africa
The 11 min mark about American Leadership
Around 18 min — About Racial Relations, Social Injustice, and Activism
Around 24 min — About the different roles people play in creating change
Around 28 min- I do take some issue with his statement regarding progressives modeling after the current GOP — whah?
Seriously, I don’t get how to take the statement except in a pretty negative light. What I have heard Progressives complain is — why don’t we (Democrats as Politicians) say what we believe in rather than being mealy mouthed trying to please everyone? In that progressive have pondered why can’t we be clear in espousing our beliefs (in comparison with the GOP)?
I accept that careful messaging is important, but at the same time that’s why so many in this country do not trust politicians when they contort themselves to try to say something that is not offensive to anyone, it comes off as if they are not speaking the truth.
Overall — a great conversation between the two men with one asterisk which reminds me what I see as a key weakness of Obama. A weakness that may have helped lead us to the Trump Administration. One I hope Biden doesn’t repeat.
We need to have the hard conversations, speak to our beliefs and common truths while continuing to be open to hearing opinions that may be in conflict with our own experiences. We need to lend a hand to those experiencing grief and suffering — which I do see as Biden’s strength.
I hope Obama does inspire tomorrow’s leaders and Trevor Noah continues to ask more questions of those leaders in 2021 and far beyond. He continues to grow — and vastly exceed the first impression I had when he took over TDS, becoming one of my favorite political commentators/comedians. I think Trevor Noah rocks it with this interview, getting Barack Obama to loosen up and keep it real.
Wishing all Peace and Hope in 2021.