I would have said that he represents optimism - as he seems to have a genuinely optimistic view of the potential of his country - and the fact that he is black doesn't work against him, it creates a sense that the USA doesn't have to represent slavery, opression and international arrogance, but could equally represent civil rights, tolerance and international responsibility.

Americans want to redefine themselves and who can blame them. If his fairytale comes true then they can say "hey - this is what we're really about" and feel good about themselves.

And I think this is different to dropping a penny in the oxfambox - because it isn't just a quick guilt placebo, it's a choice of US president - it's a real gesture of trust and progress.

I'm amazed at how much courage America has to not cling on to the safety of the old prejudices so much.

Good on you guys!