This is one of the best signs of change I can think of:

After a tense internal debate, the Obama administration this afternoon will make public a number of detailed memos describing the harsh interrogation techniques used by the Central Intelligence Agency against al Qaeda suspects in secret overseas prisons.

The interrogation methods were among the Bush administration’s most closely guarded secrets, and today’s release will be the most comprehensive public accounting to date of the interrogation program that some senior Obama administration officials have said used illegal torture.

I can’t wait.

Update: Here’s Obama on why he decided to release the memos:

This is a time for reflection, not retribution. I respect the strong views and emotions that these issues evoke. We have been through a dark and painful chapter in our history. But at a time of great challenges and disturbing disunity, nothing will be gained by spending our time and energy laying blame for the past. Our national greatness is embedded in America’s ability to right its course in concert with our core values, and to move forward with confidence. That is why we must resist the forces that divide us, and instead come together on behalf of our common future.

His sentiments have merit but I disagree with his insistence on always looking forward without looking back. Contra Obama, I think that a LOT “will be gained by spending our time and energy laying blame for the past” if we train our eyes on the war criminals who authorized the torture techniques we so recklessly unleashed upon the world.

I can guarantee you, right now, if we go through Obama’s entire first term without a single person being prosecuted for crimes committed during the Bush administration, I will not be a happy camper.

Update 2: Ambinder links to the full text of the memos, in all their sordid glory.