For many Blacks, 2009 was a year in which time stood still, twice. The world seemed to come to a screeching halt as Black men, women, boys and girls from all over the world watched America’s first Black President take the oath of office.
Many shed tears, having once believed that this day would never come. An atmosphere of jubilation filled the air and hearts soared as Black America watched history unfold.
Later this year, spirits plummeted and hearts sank as the mournful news spread quickly that Michael Jackson, the king of Pop, was dead.  As texts and e-mails were rapidly circulated, many found themselves in shock and disbelief that such a legendary icon had passed.
It was a year of historical gains and a season of grief and pain for the Black community. With the election of the country’s first Black president, some believed Blacks were now on easy street.
Finally, there would be “a brother” in the White House. It was a day of pride for Black America.
The misnomer that Black men no longer had an excuse for being unable to escape the devastating effects of racism and slavery quickly spread. Many also believed they would finally have someone in the White House who could relate to the plight of Blacks and would respond to the many disparities that plagued the community.
But others doubted Obama’s ability to create any meaningful change for Blacks in America. Only time would tell.
There is a popular saying among African-Americans, “When White folks have a cold, Black folks have pneumonia.” This statement appeared to ring true as Black unemployment surged to 15.6 percent in November, up from 11.1 percent in November 2008.
Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for Whites was just 9.3 percent (up from 5.9 percent) and 12.7 percent for Hispanics (up from 8.8 percent). Although Blacks remained hopeful, UCLA professor Raul Hinojosa reported that Blacks and Latinos continue to experience higher foreclosure rates than Whites, destroying the social fabric of minority communities.
This problem was exacerbated by rising unemployment rates, especially among middle-class Blacks. The Obama administration responded to the crisis by calling for a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures and unveiled the Making Home Available plan to help troubled owners keep their homes.
Additionally, with the inauguration of the country’s first Black president came a surge in racial intolerance. Stephen Don Black, a former grand wizard for the Ku Klux Klan stated that membership to his White supremacist web site increased by 2000 the day following the election of President Barack Obama. 
Bob Lydia, the 1st vice-president of the Texas NAACP reported a rise in Klan activity immediately after the election by Whites who at one time showed no interest in the Klan. Homeowners in bedroom communities began to receive invitations to join and the Klan began to hold prairie parties and parades throughout the country. In a post to an Internet forum, Ni**ermania, an extremist, who called himself “Himler SS,” suggested the American flag be flown upside down, the symbol for distress.
Despite the hopes of many that the worst of America’s ugly history of racism and discrimination had past with the election of Obama, racists acts of terrorism surged. Indeed, some would describe 2009 as a year with many ups and downs for Blacks. Jackson’s death on June 25, 2009 was one of those downs.
The music legend had been plagued with scandal due to allegations that he had sexually abused several young boys. Despite his formal acquittal, Jackson had been tried in the court of public opinion, found guilty and then subsequently assassinated by mainstream media.
Following his death, the brother of his accuser publicly confessed to having lied about the assault, and the accuser’s father, committed suicide.  The final blow was dealt when the Los Angeles County coroner returned the ruling that Jackson’s death was homicide.
The beloved singer, who had danced his way into the hearts of America, had been struck down before his time. For many, Jackson’s death was bitter-sweet. Embroiled in litigation and controversy, Jackson’s life was filled with turmoil. Many fans expressed beliefs that this turmoil was the root of his bout with drugs that ultimately led to his death. Although fans acknowledged they would miss their legendary icon, some believed he had finally found in death, the peace that had eluded him in life.
As Blacks prepare for 2010, they pray that this year, as time marches on, things will be better.


Blacks from all over the country gathered to
say goodbye to the legendary Michael Jackson,
marking the end of an era for pop music.