Battling candidate stereotypes

By Roujin Mozaffarimehr

For the first time in history, the Democratic nominee is going to be either a woman or a black man.

In a country in which we pride ourselves on diversity, equality and civil rights, why are we one of the few developed nations that has yet to have a minority in office? Why are we making this such a big deal?

This issue has proved to be the biggest obstacle for both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.

We are quick to assume that Clinton's biggest support base is comprised of women, while Obama's is coming from the black population. Interestingly enough, it seems that the opposite has occurred.

I've heard many interviews in which women have actually accused Clinton of exploiting her gender for support and are now refusing to support her. Some black people claim that Obama is "not black enough."

Why are we so focused on these characteristics? Isn't it ironic that the people we assume to be supporters of a given candidate actually question them based on gender and race?

As this is the first election in which a minority has a chance to become president, it is an important election for the United States.

However, this is not something new in comparison to the rest of the world. Margaret Thatcher was prime minister of the United Kingdom from 1979-1990. The late Benazir Bhutto served as the first female leader of a Muslim state when she was elected as the prime minister of Pakistan twice. Germany's current chancellor is Angela Merkel.

If it is possible in other nations, why are we making it so difficult in our country?

In order for America to change in the future, we need to learn not to allow the media or our ingrained stereotypes to guide our decision making.

If the right person steps up to the plate, has the credentials, the platform and the charisma of a world leader, does one's gender or race really have be the deciding factor for such a job? I hope not.

I am not advocating a color-blind or gender-neutral society. I am bringing attention to the fact that gender and race do not have to be the factors that decide the outcome of this year's election.

Take a look at Clinton's resumé. Listen to Obama speak.

Former President John F. Kennedy silenced similar attacks on his religion during his campaign by stating, "I am not the Catholic candidate for president. I am the Democratic Party's candidate for president, who happens also to be a Catholic."

I'm hoping that this time around we can rise above such trivial questions and focus on deciding who we think is qualified to be our next president.

Roujin Mozaffarimehr is a senior political science and Italian double major.