"Race Relations: How far have we come?"

I couldn't help but be extremely moved and proud watching our first Black President standing before hundreds of thousands of people from all walks of life at Grant Park in Chicago last week.

I was in awe of the sight and proud because I think this is a great opportunity for our nation to move forward and possibly heal deep wounds. I feel Mr. Obama's win will move our nation toward that place Dr. Martin Luther King spoke about... where you'll be judged by the content of your character...not the color of your skin.

As I watched President-Elect Obama and his wife Michelle visit their soon-to-be new home today...I wondered what Northeast Ohians were feeling.

My partner, Tim White and I talk openly and candidly about race. We don't always agree but we see it as a healthy discussion.

I'd love to hear your thoughts. Do you think having a black president will make it easier for people of different races and background to relate to one another?

Can we have a discussion about race without being seen as a racist?

"Color blind"

I know it seems impossible, but that's what I wish for someday. A color blind society, one in which we call can just treat one another with common decency and respect.

That's what I've seen every year I've attended the Diversity Walk. It's the Diversity Center's largest fundraiser. I've served as the Grand Marshall of the walk for two years now.

Its a great day when thousands of Northeast Ohioans show up bright and early on a Saturday morning in May to celebrate, not our differences, but what we all share in common. You'll find people from every different ethnic background and all ages. I've met toddlers to grandmothers and grandfathers. I loved talking to several of the little beauty queens from different nationalities.

The walk is just one of the fundraisers that helps provide funding for the groups diversity programs in schools. It teaches tolerance through lessons on racism and bigotry.

I feel so strongly about the Diversity Center, I've provided a link below if you'd like to learn more.

www.diversitycenterneo.org