I have immense respect for Oprah. She came out years ago about her own sexual abuse history and has inspired many more women to come forward ever since. The award tonight was a tribute to the decades of work she has put into helping those less fortunate. Her speech was powerful, raw, and as shown by the camera, affected more than one person in the room. Even I watched with tears in my eyes, knowing my own history of #MeToo moments. But, no, I do not think this qualifies her to be a US President.
@estherschindler I don't discredit any of her accomplishments, but would her experiences perhaps be better suited as an ambassador or cabinet position? I just think of the intricacies involved in the multi-faceted role of President, especially given the world state of relative instability and environmental crisis, as well as the repair that needs to be done post-trump. For me, I am looking to someone who understands constitutional law, foreign diplomacy, respects science, and is compassionate.
@ChippySuave Oh I can agree with that. If nothing else, shouldn't she start as, say, a senator? There's a lot of "how business is done here" that one should learn.
I think we all want our heroes to jump right up on that pedestal, though. And at the moment we are societally feeling a little short of heroes.
@estherschindler Senator would be a great start! As for heroes, I am sure that is why Marvel and DC do so well in the box office..
@ChippySuave Oh, I had no thoughts tonight on whether or not she could be POTUS. I'm just really annoyed with people trying to make those of us who admire her, for any reason, feel like shit, and say we're "idolizing" her. I just happen to like her and I don't see why that's so bad (not referring to you here, just to be clear). As far as POTUS, of course she's not qualified but as far as completely unqualified people go, she'd be leaps ahead of most other people, including our current POTUS.
@twhitetlw I have noticed a certain heavy hand these past few hours from white men in general, on other social media platforms, attempting to belittle Oprah, her career, and her accomplishments. 🙄
@ChippySuave Yes and even here there was some of the old why didn't they speak up earlier (seriously?!) And why don't they do more than wear dresses and Oprah just strung platitudes
together, yada yada yada.. No, I don't idolize celebrities but I don't demonize them either. Why can't we just let people enjoy things? Oprah has done a lot, I will never understand people who actively dislike her. Just not being interested, sure but a lot of the negativity is just beyond my comprehension.
@ChippySuave I don't think THAT qualifies her, certainly.
But I'd entertain a wider conversation about her suitability for the role. She's certainly built several successful organizations that appear to do a good job of accomplishing good things. With compassion and willingness to listen, which I think have been demonstrated to be important qualities. Found ways to get people to work together. ...That's more than some, perhaps?