Frequently Asked Questions

ACCOUNTABLE: Making America As Good As Its Promise

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: On the cover of the book there is an image of President Barack Obama made up of many small photos of other faces. Who are those people and what does that image represent?
President Obama’s face is comprised of small photos of elected officials from all over the country. It’s symbolic of the purpose and content of ACCOUNTABLE. This book is about the role that each of us - the president, elected officials and engaged citizens play in helping to make America as good as its promise.
 

Q: Some people considered Tavis Smiley a vocal critic of President Obama during the presidential race. Does this book criticize President Obama?
This book does not criticize President Obama. Although some considered Tavis an Obama critic or “hater”, Tavis saw his role to be that of an advocate of “wise enthusiasm and sober assessment”. Tavis encouraged Black America in particular to carefully consider the substance of the principles and policies promoted by all the candidates, along with the symbolism prevalent in what was a historic election. This book outlines many of the promises made by President Obama during the presidential race and how Americans can support him in achieving those critical goals to improve this country.
 

Q: After the success of the Covenant with Black America and THE COVENANT In Action, why was it important to follow up with this third book?
ACCOUNTABLE is the logical successor to the other two texts because the whole Covenant journey was about preparing an action plan for the next administration. The Covenant is the “what”; THE COVENANT In Action is the “how”; and ACCOUNTABLE is the “whether” – the yardstick for measuring whether elected officials and citizens have fulfilled or are satisfying their respective duties in our democracy.
 

Q: The economy is the most pressing issue for Americans today. How does ACCOUNTABLE tackle this?
There is a whole chapter devoted to the economy that includes The Covenant recommendations for strengthening our rural roots, accessing good jobs, wealth, and economic prosperity along with proposed solutions and the ACCOUNTABLE checklist.
 

Q: What’s the method for holding the president and ourselves accountable?
ACCOUNTABLE includes a series of “Promise Charts” to compare the actions of our highest elected official with The Covenant’s 10-point agenda.
 

Q: Has President Obama received a copy of the book?
Yes. A copy of the book was sent to the president with the hope that his administration will consider it a useful tool and resource as they address the difficult challenges facing our nation.