Eli Reed “I had been sent on an assignment to photograph President Obama. He was irritated because the ‘Blue Dogs’ had been fighting him over new health insurance policies he was trying to push through. He
(...) felt stymied. But when he entered the Rose Garden for a press conference, he seemed assured. He knew what he was doing. He stood, confronting the audience of journalists, like a John Shaft or John Wayne character: strong, poised, ready.
Race is a major issue in America. Yet, it is often the elephant in the room. Of course, it has played a role in Obama’s presidency. And, as an African American myself, and the first black Magnum photographer, I identify with his struggles. I think all African Americans can. Here is someone in the top office and many people don’t accept that.
Right before I took this photograph, he came around the corner with a smile. It was as if he was saying, ‘I’m here. I’m not going away. Get used to it.’”
– Eli Reed © Eli Reed | Magnum Photos
