The Editor, Sir:

It is with great emotion that I recall the words of the father of the civil rights movement, because I do not think the honourable Dr Martin Luther King could have imagined, in his wildest dreams, what has taken place in this historic event, where a black man in the person of Barack Obama is elected as the 44th President of the United States of America, the most powerful nation in the world.

The worldwide impact should not be underestimated in terms of the far-reaching effect it will have on black people and all minorities worldwide. Already, one teacher from the state of California has reported that this achievement has influenced the young black males in his class, who have now begun to show a completely different attitude towards their education, recognising the possibilities that now exist for them.

Level playing field

Black people, for the first time, will understand that we now live in a world with a level playing field, where the possibilities are endless, regardless of race, colour or religious affiliation.

Let us understand that we can only be limited by our own perceptions of ourselves, but we must never allow anyone, except God and ourselves, to determine our destiny.

Whilst recognising the significance for black people worldwide, let us not underestimate this highly intelligent and forward-looking president-elect, as he now moves to the task of uniting the people of his country and leading the most powerful nation out of the senseless war in Iraq and out of the most serious recession since the 1930's to one of prosperity for all.

Worldwide public holiday

The task is a daunting and one of great challenge but I am satisfied that with our continual prayers and support Obama will rise to the task and be able to achieve all that he has set out to do.

It is therefore with a sense of great pride that I recommend that a worldwide public holiday be declared in honour of the president-elect of the United States, to be called 'The Obama Public Holiday' and that we follow in the footsteps of Kenya where the process has already begun.

Congratulations, Barack, yours has been a race well run. May you have long life and success and may you continue to face this challenge with the blessings and direction of Almighty God.

I am, etc.,

CYNTHIA BURTON(Mrs.)

cynthiaeburton@hotmail.com.