Running Head: MICHELLE OBAMA

Michelle Obama as an African Woman Leader

Institutional Affiliation

Student’s Name
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MICHELLE OBAMA AS AN AFRICAN WOMAN LEADER

Introduction

The first (black) lady of the United States of America Michelle Obama wife to former

US President Barrack Obama goes down in history as a great revolutionist that has been on

the forefront in advocating for black civil rights in America (Verna, 2009). The general

perception of human beings especially men is that women cannot make good leaders but her

case is exceptional because her heart reaches out to the people and her fulfilment is when

everybody enjoys the rights and freedoms they deserve (Bennetts, 2007).

Background of Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama is said to have come from a generation of slaves that settled in

America in the ancient years in the south side. However, it is believed that her descendants

were able to transform their status and this is the reason why she was born of working class

parents that were able to take her to Ivy League Institutions (Verna, 2009). She is a lawyer by

profession and record has it that she was an associate with a white shoe law firm and later on

became a top executive at one of the top hospitals in the nation. Despite the ridicule and

reproach associated with the black race in USA Michelle has been able to stand against all

odds by excelling in all that she does and the climax of it all is summed up by her becoming

the first black woman to become the first lady of the nation (Verna, 2009). Furthermore,

during her youthful age she met with her husband Barrack Obama and they later got married.

Michelle has to daughters namely Sasha and Malia Obama. The journey to supremacy has not

been easy for Michelle and this is the reason why she is regarded as one of the strongest

ladies in the political history of the USA (Collins, 2008). Her development policies and

undisputable stands about the black people portray a person that cannot be compromised by

anything whatsoever because she was and still is determined to bringing effective change in

the country (Verna, 2009).

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The Life of Michelle Obama as the First Lady

The office of the first lady of America lacks is not stipulated in the constitution of

America (Vena, 2009). The job description of this role is not clear even though this position

is very significant to the people and the person that holds it. Therefore, Michelle Obama used

this opportunity to positively impact women and children throughout her tenure as the first

lady. Black oppression as witnessed during the early days of America has been persistent in

the nation until the time a black president came into power (Verna, 2009). Michelle used this

opportunity to preach positive campaigns about black people mostly women and children.

This has also seen the funding of various projects across the board that have facilitated the

equipping of individuals that have been living a poor life into becoming responsible people in

the society (Collins, 2008).

The major focus of the first lady’s office is the welfare of families and homes and

Michelle Obama perfectly executed her duties in regards to the objectives stipulated in her

position. Michelle represents the typical character of a woman that cares for the society.

Women are mostly associated with taking care of homes and the well being of children and

this is the reason why Michelle saw it vital to transform women into instruments of power

both financially and socially through educating them and reminding them that they still have

a place in the society (Verna, 2009).

Conclusion

Through her two terms as the first lady, Michelle has behaved in an exceptional

manner. She has not been involved in any scandals both in public and private. This is a true

reflection of an African American woman that values character and integrity (Bennetts,

2007). She is an icon that can be emulated in spheres of life that are; family, development and

politics. Furthermore, she provided immense support during his campaigns both when vying
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for senator and presidents thus providing a good example for other ladies to support their

husbands engage in.

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Reference List

Bennetts, L. (2007). First Lady in Waiting: Politics and Power . Vanity Fair .

Collins, L. (2008). Keeping it Real; Michelle Obama Reinvents the Role of Political Spouse.

Verna, L. (2009). The First (Black) Lady. 1-18.

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Reference List