Winnipeg Free Press - ONLINE EDITION

Winnipeggers invited to Obama celebration tonight

Winnipeg’s African and Caribbean communities are inviting the public to celebrate Obama’s presidency tonight at 6 p.m. at the Manila Peninsula Banquet and Conference Centre, 56 Keewatin St. at Ross Avenue.

Event organizer Selina Bieber said they are expecting more than 100 people at the event featuring African music and a $10 buffet. For every person who attends, Obama’s presidency will have special meaning, she said.

"For me it’s just that, for the first time in our history, we actually have a tangible example or deed to point to when we say to our youth, ‘You can grow up to be anything’ and have it be true," she said. "Until now, there have been all sorts institutional and racial barriers... not just for the black community but for all minorities and all racial groups," said Bieber.

Obama will be sworn in as the 44th president of the United States at 11 a.m. local time. Full television coverage will be provided by most American networks and the CBC.

Kennedy Mang’era will be at the party tonight. The Kenyan-born Winnipegger hopes to sneak a few minutes away from work this morning to watch the inauguration. The member of the African Communities of Manitoba Inc. steering council is hoping schools allow and encourage young people to catch a glimpse of the historic event on TV or online.

"It’s a momentous occasion."

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