In an essay called ‘A Great Amnesia,’ Marilynne Robinson observes that our society has winnowed thoughtful language out of public life. We expect our politicians to appeal to the lowest common denominator, which, as Robinson argues, is very low indeed. Robinson’s observations came to mind as I watched Barack Obama speak in Saint Paul on Tuesday night. I wondered, are we turning a corner, towards more thoughtful language in politics?

Of all his many achievements, one I especially appreciate is the way in which Obama elevates the political discourse. He speaks to us as if we are thoughtful adults capable of dealing with complexities. Obama defies political convention by insisting on nuance (in his better moments, McCain has done this, too). We saw nuance in Obama’s landmark speech on race in America, and we saw it again in that heady moment when he transitioned from primary candidate to Democratic Party nominee.

Barack Obama’s biography may be part of the reason that he can speak so authentically about fulfilling the American promise; of achieving greater levels of justice and freedom. And, yes, a big part of fulfilling the promise is addressing racism and its legacy. While Obama downplays his status as the first African American Presidential nominee for a major party, his biography, his multiple identities, and the ways in which he has struggled with those identities, add a great deal of substance and credibility to his call for unity. It is a unity that respects difference.

Some will use Obama’s achievements to argue that structural barriers no longer exist. We know better. Racism is built into so many aspects of public policy: from urban economic development to public health, transportation, housing, education, criminal justice, immigration and more. These won’t necessarily get attention because an African American is running for President. Indeed, there will be pressures to avoid talking about race. And, the temptation to go back to ‘lowest common denominator’ politics will be very strong in the general election.

Social movement groups struggling for racial, economic and environmental justice in our cities and states -- most of whom cannot endorse a candidate -- must lead the way. These are the groups who can raise issues of structural racism and how it intersects with health, housing, economic development and other policies. For example, these are the groups who will shift the conversation on health care from a narrow focus on insurance to a broader narrative about health equity. The elevated rhetoric in Obama’s campaign gestures at a more expansive, progressive vision for our nation. It is the social movement groups who can turn this vision into reality.

--Sandra Hinson