Post-Race Politics according to the Gray Lady

This is one of those must read articles. The basic argument made by the NY Times' Matt Bai (Who went on Tavis Smiley last week to discuss his piece) is that Obama, as much as he is opening doors, may also signal the end of race politics for Blacks. In other words, he has do so well in transcending skin color that he has brought the entire political process with him. And it will be harder for black politicians to push a black agenda. Of course, this also means that voters will hopefully see a black politician sans the racial qualifier.

So, is this more of a good thing, or just whishful/hopeful thinking? And what does it mean for how the black community will deal with its ills? And is America truly ready for color-blind politics?