At around 11:00 p.m. last night, Fox News by a few seconds was the first of the major broadcast and cable networks to declare Barack Obama president-elect of the United States of America.

It was a surreal moment as I watched Fox News anchor Brit Hume officially proclaim the Illinois Senator as America’s first African-American President.   

It was hard not to get emotional watching the genuine pride and happiness on the faces of thousands of Obama supporters – particularly those of African descent – who showed up at Chicago’s Grant Park to hear Obama’s acceptance speech.

The exuberant tears of the Rev. Jesse Jackson – who fought side by side with Dr. Martin Luther King during the civil rights movement in the 1960s and two decades later ran for President himself -- is a snapshot image that will be etched in the minds of many African-Americans who never thought they’d live to see such as extraordinary moment.

Here are a few reflections from cable-oriented diversity organizations NAMIC and the T Howard Foundation regarding Obama’s historical achievement:

“A Barack Obama presidency represents a major change in the profile of national leadership in America.  It is a demonstration of the impact of a campaign designed to not only reach, but appeal to the needs of people of different ethnicities and cultures, different age groups and different socio-economic standing.  It is a demonstration of diversity at its best and how the effective use of technology can bring people together.

This serves as an inspiration to everyone in our industry, especially T. Howard interns aspiring to become future industry leaders.”

Jo Pamphile, President T. Howard Foundation

"Senator Obama's victory has left an indelible mark on our nation's history. His expressed commitment to diversity is synonymous with NAMIC's mission. His campaign has been the embodiment of multi-ethnic diversity and inclusion and is a winning strategy that should be emulated on all fronts - in business as well as politics. As we reflect upon our country's shifting demographics, his presence as a diverse leader is timely. We congratulate Senator Obama on his victory."
Kathy Johnson, President, NAMIC