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Speech File Draft Files
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United Negro College Fund, 3/9/89 [1]
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1
5
SMITH /DOOLEY
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
(New York, New York)
For Immediate Release
March 9, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
TO UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND
Imperial Ballroom
Sheraton Center Hotel
New York, New York
7:51 P.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you, Michael Jordan, for that
introduction. Barbara and I are delighted to be with you, speaking
before the olives, the celery, the raw carrots. (Laughter.) But
we've got to get back to Washington -- fast. (Laughter and
applause.) (Laughter.) The Senate is still in session and our dog is pregnant.
I want to just add my voice of congratulations to Gus
Hawkins and Larry Rawl and Paul Simon. You honor three good people.
And I want to thank Hugh Cullman, who gives so much of himself to the
United Negro College Fund, and, of course, salute Chris Edley, a
friend of long-standing.
You know, Paul Simon once wrote a song called simply,
"Old Friends." And I'm delighted to see my old friends, Bill and Vi
Trent, here with us tonight.
You know, as Michael said -- (applause) -- my association
with the UNCF got started there at Yale University in '48, and Bill
Trent came up to New Haven and talked to a lot of young idealistic
people about his vision for higher education, and he did a superb
job. And so today, when he and Vi flew up with me on Air Force One,
I had this great feeling of nostalgia. And he is -- his 79th
birthday I think is tomorrow, but in any event, it's great to be with
this old friend way down on the end of the line. (Applause.)
Also with us on Air Force One was another Executive
Director of the UNCF, Art Fletcher, who's here somewhere. But we
have good representation. And you talk about the hard sell, they're
still doing it. (Laughter.)
Tonight, flanked by old friends and, in a real sense,
family, because my brother, John, is active in this crusade, and I
consider many of you here family -- I am grateful for your company.
During
mv
student
davs
- 2 -
But most of all, you really have shown how the conscience
and education can fulfill the promise of America -- to right wrong,
to love freedom, to demand equality for all.
And for that, I congratulate you -- and yet, I challenge
you, too. Black and white, together -- we know that America will not
be a good place for any of us to live until it is a good place for
all of us to live. (Applause.)
Most Americans, I'm convinced, believe that government
can be an instrument of healing. There are times when government
must step in where others fear to tread.
My friends, I share those beliefs, and as President, I
will act on them.
I'm delighted that my Secretary of Education, our
distinguished Secretary of Education Larry Cavazos is with us here
tonight, sitting over here. (Applause.)
For America, it seems to me, means pride -- individually,
culturally, racially. And America means, in the words of Dr. King,
that "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."
(Applause.) And it does mean opportunity for those who need jobs and
who dream of owning homes. And it means the hope that tomorrow will
be brighter than today. How can we best inspire that hope and secure
the promise of America? I do believe that the answer is in
education. Education knows no barriers, accepts no limits.
Education is a ladder; it embodies self-respect, not dependency.
Education can give minorities a greater voice, and then make sure
that that voice is heard.
Since 1944, when Dr. Patterson founded the UNCF, your
voice has resounded from colleges like Tuskegee and Morehouse and
Spellman and Fisk. And I'm going to hurt a lot of feelings tonight
because I was in a receiving line, and I was so impressed with the
names that came flowing back as I met the presidents of these
distinguished universities. Black colleges have enobled such
Americans as Leontyne Price, Frank Yerby, Azie Taylor Morton, and our
next Secretary of Health and Human Services, my dear friend, Dr. Lou
Sullivan, who is here with us tonight. (Applause.)
It is said that the woman who Time calls "the silver fox"
--- (laughter and applause) -- was responsible for Lou Sullivan's
being appointed to this Cabinet, and I'll give her some credit.
(Laughter and applause.) I want to gun down the rumor though that I
appointed Lou Sullivan to be Secretary because when as President of
Morehouse Medical School he was working my wife to death as a board
member. And it's rumored I just wanted him to get out of there to
let up on her. Not true. (Laughter.)
As you know, in September 1981, President Reagan signed
that Executive Order 12320, committing the federal government to
- 3 -
Horsemen of the American Night -- illiteracy and inequality,
indigence and fear.
Great beginnings -- crawling before we walk and then run.
Great beginnings. And now let's build on them. And we have done
much, but there remains so much more left to do.
My friends, eight weeks ago I think it was, there in the
White House complex, I met with the presidents of many of the
colleges represented here tonight to probe exactly where we are going
and how. And we discussed faculty development and merit
scholarships, community college grants and institutional planning.
And from that meeting, and others like it, came six new
initiatives which will help do, nationally, what you have done,
historically: Enrich education, so that education can enrich our
lives.
And after listening to your presidents, I proposed that
Congress fund $60 million over four years in endowment matching
grants. We put our money on the table. And now, I want to challenge
the private sector. It's a beginning. We need the help of the
private sector. The time has come.
And secondly, if excellence breeds achievement, that
excellence should be rewarded -- in grade schools, in high school,
and at our colleges and university. And so I want Congress to create
a $500 million program to reward America's "merit schools" -- the
schools which improve the most.
And thirdly, I want it to create special presidential
awards for the best teachers in every state.
And next, I want to see the expanded use of magnet
schools -- to give parents and students the freedom of choice.
And I've also proposed a new program to encourage
"alternative certification" -- to allow talented Americans from every
field to teach in America's classrooms -- school classrooms.
Consider that today, in many areas, a John Updike or an Alex Haley
could not qualify to teach high school creative writing. There is
something wrong and we've got to change that system. (Applause.) My
point is that when rules are so inflexible that creativity and talent
and imagination aren't welcome in our schools, it's time to change
those rules.
And finally, through a new program of National Science
Scholars, I seek to give America's youth a special incentive to excel
in science and math. The National Science Foundation predicts a
shortage of 400,000 scientists by the year 2000. Through excellence
in education, we must and will reverse that trend. And I see the
historical black colleges as an enormous resource to do just exactly
that. (Applause.)
And yet, I recognize that these proposals -- all of this
isn't enough. It never is. As Americans, we never are satisfied.
We know that when a dream comes true, it gives rise to even bigger
MASTERII
Document No. 014059
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
03/07/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND-NEW YORK, NY
SUBJECT:
(03/07 8:00 p.m. draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
>
8
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith)
March 7, 1989
8:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
United Negro College Fund
New York, NY
Thursday, March 9, 1989
Congressman Hawkins, Mr. Rawl, Mr. Simon, ladies and
gentlemen, my fellow citizens.
Thank you for that introduction, and for the warmth of your
reception. Paul Simon once wrote a song titled, simply, "Old
Friends." I am delighted to see my old friends Bill and Vi Trent
with us tonight.
My association with UNCF got started back in 1948 when Bill
Trent, as the first Executive Director of the College Fund, came
to Yale and got me involved in the UNCF campaign. A decade
later, he asked me to chair the UNCF Texas campaign. Yesterday,
I understand, was his 79th birthday. Happy birthday, Bill.
Tonight, flanked by old friends and, in a real sense,
family, I am grateful for your company.
During my student days at Yale, I first saw the Fund invest
in higher education, and in America. Then, as now, it insisted
that excellence become a way of life, and higher learning a
bequest.
As an undergraduate, I came to grasp what Churchill meant
when he said, "Personally, I am always ready to learn, though I
do not always enjoy being taught." Well, for nearly
2
half-a-century, this Fund has taught, so that America could
learn, the gentler impulses of mankind.
You have helped society's disadvantaged cast off despair and
poverty. And through such friends as Bill Trent and Frederick D.
Patterson -- and, yes, how we miss him -- you have endorsed
liberty, opportunity, and the dignity of work.
But most of all, you have shown how conscience and education
can fulfill the promise of America: to right wrong, love
freedom, and demand equality for all.
For that, I congratulate you -- and yet, I challenge you,
too.
Black and white, together -- we know that America will not
be a good place for any of us to live until it is a good place
for all of us to live. Yes, let us reach beyond government, as
you have, to shape our Nation's character. But let us not ignore
government -- for it can nurture the decency which makes human
progress possible.
Most Americans, I'm convinced, believe that government can
be an instrument of healing. And they believe that there are
times when government must step in where others fear to tread.
My friends, I share those beliefs, and as President, I will
act on them.
For America, it seems to me, means pride -- individually,
culturally and racially. America means, in the words of Dr.
King, that "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice
everywhere." It means opportunity for those who need jobs and
3
who dream of owning homes. And it means the hope that tomorrow
will be brighter than today.
Think of America as a congregation and its members as
kindness, courage, service, enterprise. What can best inspire
them, and secure the promise of America? I say the answer is
education.
Education knows no barriers, accepts no limits. Education is
a ladder; it embodies self-respect, not dependency. Education
can give minorities a greater voice -- and make sure that voice
is heard.
Since 1944, when Dr. Patterson founded the UNCF, your voice
has resounded from colleges like Tuskegee, Morehouse, Spellman,
and Fisk. And its lyrics have ennobled such Americans as
Leontyne Price, Frank Yerby, Azie Taylor Morton, and our next
Secretary of Health and Human Services, Dr. Louis Sullivan.
Well, I'm pleased to tell you: Under our Administration,
your voice will ring yet louder.
As you know, in September 1981, President Reagan signed
Executive Order 12320, committing the Federal government to
increase its support of Historically Black Colleges and
Universities.
Our goal was to identify, and eliminate, unfair barriers to
your participation in Federally-sponsored programs. Our means
was to involve the private sector, and to motivate the 27 Federal
agencies which provide nearly all the Federal funding.
Did it work? Did it ever.
4
In Fiscal Year 1981, HBCUs received $545 million in Federal
assistance. In Fiscal Year 1987, that sum totaled $684 million.
Moreover, research and development, which includes funds for
non-scientific institutional development, comprised nearly half
of all funding. Our White House Science and Technology Committee
fostered science, mathematics, and engineering programs and
curricula. And our larger HBCU work attacked the Four Horsemen
of the American Night -- illiteracy and inequality, indigence and
fear.
Great beginnings, yes. Now, let us build upon them. We have
done much. But there remains so much more left to do.
That is why, six weeks ago, I met with 26 Presidents of
HBCUs to probe where we are going, and how. We discussed faculty
development and merit scholarships, community college grants and
institutional planning. In each case, we explored Federal
government support of public/private partnerships, task forces,
conferences, technical assistance, and the use of Federal
research and development funds.
From that meeting, and others like it, came six new
initiatives which will help do, nationally, what you have done,
historically: Enrich education, so that education can enrich our
lives.
After listening to your Presidents, I proposed that Congress
fund $60 million over four years in endowment matching grants for
HBCUs. We have put our money on the table. Now, I challenge the
private sector: The time has come for yours.
5
Secondly, if excellence breeds achievement, that excellence
should be rewarded -- in grade school, in high school, and at our
colleges and universities. Accordingly, I want Congress to
create a $500 million program to reward America's "merit schools"
-- the schools which improve the most.
Thirdly, I want it to create special Presidential awards for
the best teachers in every State.
And next, I want to see the expanded use of magnet schools
-- to give parents and students the freedom of choice.
I have also proposed a new program to encourage "alternative
certification" -- to allow talented Americans from every field to
teach in America's classrooms. Consider that today, in many
areas, a John Updike, an Alex Haley, couldn't qualify to teach
high-school creative writing. When rules are so inflexible that
creativity, talent, and imagination aren't welcome in our
schools, it's time to change the rules.
And finally, through a new program of National Science
Scholars, I seek to give America's youth a special incentive to
excel in science and mathematics. The National Science
Foundation predicts a shortage of 400,000 scientists by the year
2000. Through excellence in education, we must, and will,
reverse that trend.
And, yet, all of this is not enough. It never is. As
Americans, we are never satisfied. We know that when a dream
comes true, it gives rise to even bigger and better dreams.
Let us work, then, to build a better America. And let us
begin by ending drug abuse.
6
My friends, drug abuse is America's Twentieth-Century
version of human slavery. It chains the spirit, and imperils the
ability to learn. To combat drugs, we must mobilize our
resources -- fiscal, moral, spiritual, economic -- and wage
unconditional war. And we must fight on every front: education,
treatment, interdiction, enforcement.
Last month, I asked Congress for an increase of almost $1
billion in budget outlays to escalate our war. This is a war we
must and will win. The future of our nation and the lives of our
children depend on it.
Earlier, I mentioned the promise of America: hope, pride,
opportunity, justice. A drug-free America fulfills that promise.
So, too, do Enterprise Zones.
Enterprise Zones are a pioneering initiative to establish a
number of Federally-designated zones -- or areas -- in
economically distressed communities. By providing tax breaks and
relief from regulation, they foster a climate where new
businesses can be created, and existing businesses expanded.
These businesses will create new jobs in these targeted
communities, especially for disadvantaged workers.
Already, 37 States have developed Enterprise Zone programs.
It's time we put them to work at the Federal level. Local
communities will benefit. But, more importantly, those who need
a helping hand -- the unemployed, the dispossessed -- will gain
new hope and opportunity: Not across town, but in their own back
yards.
7
Enterprise Zones can serve the most vulnerable among us.
Well, so, too, will child care, fair housing, and minority
business development. They build long-term opportunity -- the
kind of equality that lasts. In short, they will enrich the
quality of life for all Americans.
As part of our new child-care initiative, targeted at
low-income families, I have asked for $250 million more for the
Head Start program. This Federal program must, and will, serve
increasing numbers of four-year-olds.
For working parents with children under four, we've proposed
a new tax credit to make child care more affordable. And we want
to make the existing child care credit refundable to families who
don't pay taxes. My proposal puts money in the hands of
low-income parents, limits Federal intervention, and increases
options -- a church can help; or grandparents; or professional
nursery. In short, we say: Let the parents decide.
To us, child care means options. Well, that is also true of
the inalienable right of every American to live where he chooses,
when he chooses, for as long as he chooses, within his means.
It's as simple as it sounds -- a simple matter of what's right,
and what's wrong. Under this Administration, you have my pledge:
We will vigorously enforce the Federal Fair Housing Act.
Finally, four days ago, the Office of Minority Business
Enterprise, renamed the Minority Business Development Agency,
marked its 20th birthday. We will expand its involvement in the
free enterprise system. And we'll promote other programs which
spur housing, investment, jobs, and training. The Job Training
8
Partnership Act, for instance. The Small Business
Administration.
Yes, hope, pride, opportunity, justice. I thought of those
qualities when I received a letter, recently, from a mother in
New Orleans. She is 48 years old, and widowed. She has four
sons, and her family is in debt. But they are proud and
unafraid, because education is their ally.
The mother is pursuing a Masters Degree in Social Work; last
year, her eldest son graduated from the University of Chicago.
And the three other kids are college students -- including, she
wrote, "the baby of the family: a 6-foot-6, 240-pound freshman at
Grambling State University."
"I implore you, the mother asked, "to think about
people such as myself and my sons." And then she added: "P.S.
We're black but optimistic that we can be a part of the American
Dream. "
My friends, I want an America where this dedicated mother
does not have to choose between "black" and "optimistic." The
words are not mutually exclusive -- not a contradiction in terms.
And I want our policies to serve and encourage this family, and
millions like it everywhere. Because they reflect the promise of
America
and we must help make that promise a reality.
The promise of America says that by assuring equality, we
can enhance greater opportunity. It says that our destiny is not
divisible, and that we are children of the same humane and loving
God.
9
The promise of America demands that we aid our communities
and assist our neighbors. It rests less on promises and
politicians than on the primacy of the heart.
The promise of America knows neither race, creed, sex, or
color. It is collective and individual, and as boundless as our
history. The promise of America says that government is but a
custodian of America's future -- but that you -- the people --
you are her architects.
Dr. Benjamin E. Mays once observed, "It must be borne in
mind that the tragedy of life does not lie in not reaching your
goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach." H
My fellow citizens, to open wide the door of opportunity and
equality to all Americans -- this is our goal, and the true
promise of America. Let us achieve it, together, as Americans
and as friends.
Thank you for inviting me, God bless you all, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # #
To PRESIDENT
(Smith)
March 7, 1989
8:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
United Negro College Fund
New York, NY
Thursday, March 9, 1989
Congressman Hawkins, Mr. Rawl, Mr. Simon, ladies and
gentlemen, my fellow citizens.
Thank you for that introduction, and for the warmth of your
reception. Paul Simon once wrote a song titled, simply, "Old
Friends." I am delighted to see my old friends Bill and Vi Trent
with us tonight.
My association with UNCF got started back in 1948 when Bill
Trent, as the first Executive Director of the College Fund, came
to Yale and got me involved in the UNCF campaign. A decade
later, he asked me to chair the UNCF Texas campaign. Yesterday,
I understand, was his 79th birthday. Happy birthday, Bill.
Tonight, flanked by old friends and, in a real sense,
family, I am grateful for your company.
During my student days at Yale, I first saw the Fund invest
in higher education, and in America. Then, as now, it insisted
that excellence become a way of life, and higher learning a
bequest.
As an undergraduate, I came to grasp what Churchill meant
when he said, "Personally, I am always ready to learn, though I
do not always enjoy being taught.' Well, for nearly
2
half-a-century, this Fund has taught, so that America could
learn, the gentler impulses of mankind.
You have helped society's disadvantaged cast off despair and
poverty. And through such friends as Bill Trent and Frederick D.
Patterson -- and, yes, how we miss him -- you have endorsed
liberty, opportunity, and the dignity of work.
But most of all, you have shown how conscience and education
can fulfill the promise of America: to right wrong, love
freedom, and demand equality for all.
For that, I congratulate you -- and yet, I challenge you,
too.
Black and white, together -- we know that America will not
be a good place for any of us to live until it is a good place
for all of us to live. Yes, let us reach beyond government, as
you have, to shape our Nation's character. But let us not ignore
government -- for it can nurture the decency which makes human
progress possible.
Most Americans, I'm convinced, believe that government can
be an instrument of healing. And they believe that there are
times when government must step in where others fear to tread.
My friends, I share those beliefs, and as President, I will
act on them.
For America, it seems to me, means pride -- individually,
culturally and racially. America means, in the words of Dr.
King, that "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice
everywhere." It means opportunity for those who need jobs and
3
who dream of owning homes. And it means the hope that tomorrow
will be brighter than today.
Think of America as a congregation and its members as
kindness, courage, service, enterprise. What can best inspire
them, and secure the promise of America? I say the answer is
education.
Education knows no barriers, accepts no limits. Education is
a ladder; it embodies self-respect, not dependency. Education
can give minorities a greater voice -- and make sure that voice
is heard.
Since 1944, when Dr. Patterson founded the UNCF, your voice
has resounded from colleges like Tuskegee, Morehouse, Spellman,
and Fisk. And its lyrics have ennobled such Americans as
Leontyne Price, Frank Yerby, Azie Taylor Morton, and our next
Secretary of Health and Human Services, Dr. Louis Sullivan.
Well, I'm pleased to tell you: Under our Administration,
your voice will ring yet louder.
As you know, in September 1981, President Reagan signed
Executive Order 12320, committing the Federal government to
increase its support of Historically Black Colleges and
Universities.
Our goal was to identify, and eliminate, unfair barriers to
your participation in Federally-sponsored programs. Our means
was to involve the private sector, and to motivate the 27 Federal
agencies which provide nearly all the Federal funding.
Did it work? Did it ever.
4
In Fiscal Year 1981, HBCUs received $545 million in Federal
assistance. In Fiscal Year 1987, that sum totaled $684 million.
Moreover, research and development, which includes funds for
non-scientific institutional development, comprised nearly half
of all funding. Our White House Science and Technology Committee
fostered science, mathematics, and engineering programs and
curricula. And our larger HBCU work attacked the Four Horsemen
of the American Night -- illiteracy and inequality, indigence and
fear.
Great beginnings, yes. Now, let us build upon them. We have
done much. But there remains so much more left to do.
That is why, six weeks ago, I met with 26 Presidents of
HBCUs to probe where we are going, and how. We discussed faculty
development and merit scholarships, community college grants and
institutional planning. In each case, we explored Federal
government support of public/private partnerships, task forces,
conferences, technical assistance, and the use of Federal
research and development funds.
From that meeting, and others like it, came six new
initiatives which will help do, nationally, what you have done,
historically: Enrich education, so that education can enrich our
lives.
After listening to your Presidents, I proposed that Congress
fund $60 million over four years in endowment matching grants for
HBCUs. We have put our money on the table. Now, I challenge the
private sector: The time has come for yours.
5
Secondly, if excellence breeds achievement, that excellence
should be rewarded -- in grade school, in high school, and at our
colleges and universities. Accordingly, I want Congress to
create a $500 million program to reward America's "merit schools"
-- the schools which improve the most.
Thirdly, I want it to create special Presidential awards for
the best teachers in every State.
And next, I want to see the expanded use of magnet schools
-- to give parents and students the freedom of choice.
I have also proposed a new program to encourage "alternative
certification" -- to allow talented Americans from every field to
teach in America's classrooms. Consider that today, in many
areas, a John Updike, an Alex Haley, couldn't qualify to teach
high-school creative writing. When rules are so inflexible that
creativity, talent, and imagination aren't welcome in our
schools, it's time to change the rules.
And finally, through a new program of National Science
Scholars, I seek to give America's youth a special incentive to
excel in science and mathematics. The National Science
Foundation predicts a shortage of 400,000 scientists by the year
2000. Through excellence in education, we must, and will,
reverse that trend.
And, yet, all of this is not enough. It never is. As
Americans, we are never satisfied. We know that when a dream
comes true, it gives rise to even bigger and better dreams.
Let us work, then, to build a better America. And let us
begin by ending drug abuse.
6
My friends, drug abuse is America's Twentieth-Century
version of human slavery. It chains the spirit, and imperils the
ability to learn. To combat drugs, we must mobilize our
resources -- fiscal, moral, spiritual, economic -- and wage
unconditional war. And we must fight on every front: education,
treatment, interdiction, enforcement.
Last month, I asked Congress for an increase of almost $1
billion in budget outlays to escalate our war. This is a war we
must and will win. The future of our nation and the lives of our
children depend on it.
Earlier, I mentioned the promise of America: hope, pride,
opportunity, justice. A drug-free America fulfills that promise.
So, too, do Enterprise Zones.
Enterprise Zones are a pioneering initiative to establish a
number of Federally-designated zones -- or areas -- in
economically distressed communities. By providing tax breaks and
relief from regulation, they foster a climate where new
businesses can be created, and existing businesses expanded.
These businesses will create new jobs in these targeted
communities, especially for disadvantaged workers.
Already, 37 States have developed Enterprise Zone programs.
It's time we put them to work at the Federal level. Local
communities will benefit. But, more importantly, those who need
a helping hand -- the unemployed, the dispossessed -- will gain
new hope and opportunity: Not across town, but in their own back
yards.
7
Enterprise Zones can serve the most vulnerable among us.
Well, so, too, will child care, fair housing, and minority
business development. They build long-term opportunity -- the
kind of equality that lasts. In short, they will enrich the
quality of life for all Americans.
As part of our new child-care initiative, targeted at
low-income families, I have asked for $250 million more for the
Head Start program. This Federal program must, and will, serve
increasing numbers of four-year-olds.
For working parents with children under four, we've proposed
a new tax credit to make child care more affordable. And we want
to make the existing child care credit refundable to families who
don't pay taxes. My proposal puts money in the hands of
low-income parents, limits Federal intervention, and increases
options -- a church can help; or grandparents; or professional
nursery. In short, we say: Let the parents decide.
To us, child care means options. Well, that is also true of
the inalienable right of every American to live where he chooses,
when he chooses, for as long as he chooses, within his means.
It's as simple as it sounds -- a simple matter of what's right,
and what's wrong. Under this Administration, you have my pledge:
We will vigorously enforce the Federal Fair Housing Act.
Finally, four days ago, the Office of Minority Business
Enterprise, renamed the Minority Business Development Agency,
marked its 20th birthday. We will expand its involvement in the
free enterprise system. And we'll promote other programs which
spur housing, investment, jobs, and training. The Job Training
8
Partnership Act, for instance. The Small Business
Administration.
Yes, hope, pride, opportunity, justice. I thought of those
qualities when I received a letter, recently, from a mother in
New Orleans. She is 48 years old, and widowed. She has four
sons, and her family is in debt. But they are proud and
unafraid, because education is their ally.
The mother is pursuing a Masters Degree in Social Work; last
year, her eldest son graduated from the University of Chicago.
And the three other kids are college students -- including, she
wrote, "the baby of the family: a 6-foot-6, 240-pound freshman at
Grambling State University."
"I implore you, " the mother asked, "to think about
people such as myself and my sons." And then she added: "P.S.
We're black but optimistic that we can be a part of the American
Dream. "
My friends, I want an America where this dedicated mother
does not have to choose between "black" and "optimistic." The
words are not mutually exclusive -- not a contradiction in terms.
And I want our policies to serve and encourage this family, and
millions like it everywhere. Because they reflect the promise of
America
and we must help make that promise a reality.
The promise of America says that by assuring equality, we
can enhance greater opportunity. It says that our destiny is not
divisible, and that we are children of the same humane and loving
God.
9
The promise of America demands that we aid our communities
and assist our neighbors. It rests less on promises and
politicians than on the primacy of the heart.
The promise of America knows neither race, creed, sex, or
color. It is collective and individual, and as boundless as our
history. The promise of America says that government is but a
custodian of America's future -- but that you. -- the people --
you are her architects.
Dr. Benjamin E. Mays once observed, "It must be borne in
mind that the tragedy of life does not lie in not reaching your
goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach." "
My fellow citizens, to open wide the door of opportunity and
equality to all Americans -- this is our goal, and the true
promise of America. Let us achieve it, together, as Americans
and as friends.
Thank you for inviting me, God bless you all, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # #
014059 SS
MASTERI
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
3/7/89
3/7/89 2:00 PM
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN No comment
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN No comment
POGERS
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS: Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122,
x2930, by 2:00 PM TODAY, March 7, 1989, with an info copy to my
office. Thanks.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1089 MAR III 01913
(Smith)
March 6, 1989
9:00 pm
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
United Negro College Fund
New York, NY
Thursday, March 9, 1989
Congressman Hawkins, Mr. Rawl, Mr. Simon, ladies and
gentlemen, my fellow citizens.
Thank you for that introduction, and for the warmth of your
reception. Paul Simon once wrote a song titled, simply, "Old
Friends." Tonight, flanked by old friends and, in a real sense,
family, I am grateful for your company.
Our paths first crossed many years ago, when I was an
organizer for the United Negro College Fund during my student
days at Yale. It was there that I first saw the Fund invest in
higher education, and in America. Then, as now, it insisted that
excellence become a way of life, and higher learning a bequest.
As an undergraduate, I came to grasp what Churchill meant
when he said, "Personally, I am always ready to learn, though I
do not always enjoy being taught." Well, for nearly
half-a-century, this Fund has taught, so that America could
learn, the gentler impulses of mankind.
You have helped society's disadvantaged cast off despair and
poverty. And through such friends as Bill Trent and Frederick D.
Patterson -- and, yes, how we miss him -- you have endorsed
liberty, opportunity, and the dignity of work.
2
But most of all, you have shown how conscience and education
can fulfill the promise of America: to right wrong, love freedom,
and demand equality for all.
For that, I congratulate you -- and yet, I challenge you,
too.
we know that
Black and white, together -- we want an America of
affirmative action, and affirmative lives. But America will not
be a good place for any of us to live until it is a good place
for all of us to live in. Yes, let us reach beyond government, as
you have, to shape our Nation's character. But let us not ignore
government -- for it can nurture the decency which makes human
progress possible.
Dorman
Most Americans, I'm convinced, believe that government can
there are
be an instrument of healing. And they believe that at times when
government must step in where others fear to tread.
My friends, I share those beliefs: and, As President, I will act (Rope)
them.
on their behalf.
For America, it seems to me, means pride -- individually Culturally and
It means
racially
And opportunity for those who need jobs and who dream
of owning homes. America means, in the words of Dr. King, that
it means
"injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." And hope:
the hope that tomorrow will be brighter than today
and its
Think of America as a congregation Now, think of its
members as kindness, courage, service, enterprise. What agenda
I say
can best inspire them, and secure the promise of America? You
the answer is education.
know the answer, for I've pledged to be the Education President.
And I'll let you in on a secret: I mean exactly what I say
3
Education knows no barriers, accepts no limits. Education is
a ladder; it embodies self-respect, not dependency. Education can
give minorities a greater voice -- and make sure that voice is
heard.
Since 1944, when Dr. Patterson founded the UNCF, your voice
has resounded from colleges like Tuskegee, Morehouse, Spellman,
and Fisk. And its lyrics have ennobled such Americans as Leontyne
Louis Sullivan
Price, Andrew Young, Frank Yerby, and Azie Taylor Morton.
Well, I'm pleased to tell you: Under our Administration,
your voice will ring yet louder.
As you know, in September 1981, President Reagan signed
Executive Order 12320, committing the Federal government to
increase its support of Historically Black Colleges and
Universities.
Our goal was to identify, and eliminate, unfair barriers to
your participation in Federally-sponsored programs. Our means was
to involve the private sector, and to motivate the 27 Federal
agencies which provide nearly all the Federal funding.
Did it work? Did it ever.
(Bates)
In Fiscal Year 1982, HBCUs received $545 million in Federal
moreover In Fiscal year 1987)
and Rearch and
assistance last year that sum totaled $684 million Scientific
development, which includes Suids far non- scientific institu to onal devel apreat,
research leaped by 38 per cent, and by FY '87 research and
development comprised nearly half of all funding. Our White House
Science and Technology Committee fostered science, mathematics,
and engineering programs and curricula. And our larger HBCU work
attacked the Four Horsemen of the American Night -- illiteracy
and inequality, indigence and fear.
4
Great beginnings, yes. Now, let us build upon them. We have
done much. But there remains will always be so much more
left to do.
That is why, six weeks ago, I met with 26 Presidents of
HBCUs to probe where we are going, and how. We discussed faculty
development and merit scholarships, community college grants and
institutional planning. In each case, we explored Federal
government support of public/private partnerships, task forces,
conferences, technical assistance, and the use of Federal
research and development funds.
6 new mit latives
From that meeting, and others like it, came steps which I am
Roper)
proud to announce tonight, and which will help do, nationally,
what you have done, historically: Enrich education, so that
education can enrich our lives.
I refer to a new Executive Order which I will sign next
week, replacing Executive Order 12320, and which will be
effective immediately.
Specifically:
O
This Order will create a President's Board of Advisors
on Historically Black Colleges and Universities to reside within
the Department of Education.
Our board will be composed of representatives ot HBCUs,
other institutions of higher learning, of business, finance,
private foundations, and of secondary education. It will review
the annual report of Federal aid to HBCUs. And it will increase
technical assistance and business and foundation support.
5
O
Secondly, more than ever, this Executive Order will
link HBCUs to the private sector. How? Through your presence on
the Board of Advisors. And through placing HBCUs on the agenda of
the newly created Office of National Service, which will lead my
Administration's community and national-service programs.
We should work together; under this Executive Order, we
will. For example, after listening to your Presidents, I proposed
that Congress fund $60 million over four years in endowment
matching grants for HBCUs. We have put our money on the table.
Now, I challenge the private sector: The time has come for yours.
Our Executive Order will facilitate this approach, and spur
non-Federal involvement in technical assistance and funding
O
This Executive Order will also bring more of your
students into Federal internship programs. Our effort will be
headed by the Director of the Office of Personnel Management. And
I've asked that Office to also approach Congress about increasing
its number of HBCU interns. With both the executive branch and
the Congress joining hands to increase opportunities, we can give
minority students a special experience today that will enrich
their lives tomorrow.
O
Fourthly, our Board of Advisors will find ways to
support the long-term faculty endowment plans of each HBCU. For
the pursuit of excellence--student, faculty, and
administrative--is central to America.
My secondly friends, if excellence breeds achievement, that
Stet
excellence should be rewarded--in grade school, in high school,
and at our colleges and universities.
6
(stud.)
Accordingly, I want Congress to create a $500-million
program to reward America's "merit schools" the schools which
create
improve the most. I want it to found special Presidential awards
7to see
for the best teachers in every State. And I want the expanded use
togive
of
magnet schools -- giving parents and students the freedom of
choice.
have
Moreover, I propose a new program to encourage "alternative
to
certification" -- allowing talented Americans from every field to
teach in America's classrooms. Consider that today, in many
areas, a John Updike, an Alex Haley, couldn't qualify to teach
high-school creative writing. When rules are so inflexible that
creativity, talent, and imagination aren't welcome in our
schools, it's time to change the rules.
And through a new program of National Science Scholars, I
seek to give America's youth a special incentive to excel in
science and mathematics. The National Science Foundation predicts
a shortage of 400,000 scientists by the year 2000. Through
excellence in education, we must, and will, reverse that trend.
all of this is
And, yet, it's not enough. It never is. As Americans, we are
never satisfied. We know that when a dream comes true, it gives
rise to even bigger and better dreams. Perhaps the former Dean of
Howard University, John Mercer Langston, put it best. He wrote,
simply, "Want makes us all work." "
would a better the
Let us work, then, to make America. a better place to live,
dream, invest, and build. And let us begin by ending drug abuse.
My friends, drug abuse is America's Twentieth-Century
version of human slavery. It chains the spirit, and imperils the
7
ability to learn. To combat drugs, we must mobilize our resources
spintual
-- fiscal, moral economic -- and wage unconditional war. And we
must fight on every front: education, treatment, interdiction,
enforcement.
almost
Last month, I asked Congress for an increase of $1 billion
in budget outlays to escalate our war. This is a war we must and
will win. The future of our nation and the lives of our children
depend on it.
Earlier, I mentioned the promise of America: hope, pride,
opportunity, justice. A drug-free America fulfills that promise.
So, too, do Enterprise Zones.
(Boto)
Enterprise Zones are a pioneering initiative to establish a
number of Federally-designated zones -- or areas -- in-highly economically
distressed communities. By providing tax breaks and relief from
regulation, they foster a climate where new businesses can be
created, and existing businesses expanded. these These businesses
disignated
awas
m
targetted
communities
will/ create new jobs, especially for disadvantaged workers.
Dormon)
Already, 31 States have developed Enterprise Zone programs.
It's time we put them to work at the Federal level. Local
communities will benefit. But, more importantly, those who need a
helping hand--the unemployed, the dispossessed--will gain new
will
hope and opportunity: Not across town, but in their own back
no
yards.
Kings
Enterprise Zones can serve the most vulnerable among us.
susis
we will assist these other things, as well:
As part of our new child-care initiative, targeted at
low-income families, we I have asked for $250 million more for
is
chshum
should
9
and her family is in debt. But they are proud and unafraid,
because education is their ally.
The mother is pursuing a Masters Degree in Social Work; last
year, her eldest son graduated from the University of Chicago.
And the three other kids are college students -- including, she
wrote, "the baby of the family: a 6-foot-6, 240-pound freshman at
Grambling State University."
"I implore you,' the mother asked, "to think about
people such as myself and my sons. " And then she added: "P.S.
We're black but optimistic that we can be a part of the American
Dream. "
My friends, I want an America where this dedicated mother
does not have to choose between "black" and "optimistic." " The
words are not mutually exclusive -- not a contradiction in terms.
And I want our policies to serve and encourage this family, and
millions like it everywhere. Because they reflect the promise of
America
and we must help make it a reality.
The promise of America says that by assuring equality, we
can enhance greater opportunity. It says that our destiny is not
divisible, and that we are children of the same humane and loving
God.
The promise of America demands that we aid our communities
and assist our neighbors. It rests less on promises and
politicians than on the primacy of the heart.
The promise of America knows neither race, creed, sex, or
color. It is collective and individual, and as boundless as our
history. The promise of America says that government is but a
10
custodian of America's future -- but that you -- the people --
you are her architects.
Dr. Benjamin E. Mays once observed, "It must be borne in
mind that the tragedy of life does not lie in not reaching your
goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach."
My fellow citizens, to open wide the door of opportunity and
equality to all Americans -- this is our goal, and the true
promise of America. Let us achieve it, together, as Americans and
as friends.
Thank you for inviting me, God bless you all, and God bless
the United States of America.
# # #
8
Project Head Start program This Federal program must, and will, serve
the
increasing numbers of four-year-olds.
Butes)
For working) parents with children under four, we've proposed a new
tax credit to make child care more affordable. And we want to
make the existing child care credits refundable to families who
don't pay taxes. Our my proposal puts money in the hands of
low-income parents, limits Federal intervention, and increases
options -- a church can help; or grandparents; or professional
nursery. In short, we say: Let the parents decide.
is
also
true
of
(Gray)
To us, child care means options. Well so does the privilege
A
the inalienable right of every American to live where he
within his means
chooses, when he chooses, for as long as he chooses, and can
afford to do so. It's as simple as it sounds -- a simple matter
of what's right, and what's wrong. Under this Administration, you
(Visorously)
have my pledge: We will enforce the letter and the spirit of the
Roper
Federal Fair Housing Act.
Finally, four days ago, the Office of Minority Business
Enterprise, renamed the Minority Business Development Agency,
marked its 20th birthday. We will expand its involvement in the
free enterprise system. And we'll promote other programs which
spur housing, investment, jobs, and training. The Jobs Training
Partnership Act, for instance. The Minority Youth Training
Initiative. The SBA. Small Business admistration
Yes, hope, pride, opportunity, justice. I thought of those
qualities when I received a letter, recently, from a mother in
New Orleans. She is 48 years old, and widowed. She has four sons,
REMARKS: UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND
NEW YORK, NY
THURSDAY, MARCH 9, 1989
CONGRESSMAN HAWKINS, MR. RAWL, MR. SIMON, LADIES AND
GENTLEMEN, MY FELLOW CITIZENS.
THANK YOU FOR THAT INTRODUCTION, AND FOR THE WARMTH
OF YOUR RECEPTION. PAUL SIMON ONCE WROTE A SONG TITLED,
SIMPLY, "OLD FRIENDS." I AM DELIGHTED TO SEE MY OLD
FRIENDS BILL AND VI TRENT WITH US TONIGHT.
2
MY ASSOCIATION WITH UNCF GOT STARTED BACK IN 1948
WHEN BILL TRENT, AS THE FIRST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE
COLLEGE FUND, CAME TO YALE AND GOT ME INVOLVED IN THE UNCF
CAMPAIGN. A DECADE LATER, HE ASKED ME TO CHAIR THE UNCF
TEXAS CAMPAIGN. YESTERDAY, I UNDERSTAND, WAS HIS 79TH
BIRTHDAY. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BILL.
TONIGHT, FLANKED BY OLD FRIENDS AND, IN A REAL SENSE,
FAMILY, I AM GRATEFUL FOR YOUR COMPANY.
DURING MY STUDENT DAYS AT YALE, I FIRST SAW THE FUND
INVEST IN HIGHER EDUCATION, AND IN AMERICA.
3
THEN, AS NOW, IT INSISTED THAT EXCELLENCE BECOME A WAY OF
LIFE, AND HIGHER LEARNING A BEQUEST.
As AN UNDERGRADUATE, I CAME TO GRASP WHAT CHURCHILL
MEANT WHEN HE SAID, "PERSONALLY, I AM ALWAYS READY TO
LEARN, THOUGH I DO NOT ALWAYS ENJOY BEING TAUGHT." WELL,
FOR NEARLY HALF-A-CENTURY, THIS FUND HAS TAUGHT, so THAT
AMERICA COULD LEARN, THE GENTLER IMPULSES OF MANKIND.
You HAVE HELPED SOCIETY'S DISADVANTAGED CAST OFF
DESPAIR AND POVERTY.
4
AND THROUGH SUCH FRIENDS AS BILL TRENT AND FREDERICK D.
PATTERSON -- AND, YES, HOW WE MISS HIM -- YOU HAVE
ENDORSED LIBERTY, OPPORTUNITY, AND THE DIGNITY OF WORK.
BUT MOST OF ALL, YOU HAVE SHOWN HOW CONSCIENCE AND
EDUCATION CAN FULFILL THE PROMISE OF AMERICA: TO RIGHT
WRONG, LOVE FREEDOM, AND DEMAND EQUALITY FOR ALL.
FOR THAT, I CONGRATULATE YOU -- AND YET, I CHALLENGE
YOU, TOO.
5
BLACK AND WHITE, TOGETHER -- WE KNOW THAT AMERICA
WILL NOT BE A GOOD PLACE FOR ANY OF US TO LIVE UNTIL IT IS
A GOOD PLACE FOR ALL OF US TO LIVE. ((PAUSE))
MOST AMERICANS, I'M CONVINCED, BELIEVE THAT
GOVERNMENT CAN BE AN INSTRUMENT OF HEALING. THERE ARE
TIMES WHEN GOVERNMENT MUST STEP IN WHERE OTHERS FEAR TO
TREAD.
MY FRIENDS, I SHARE THOSE BELIEFS, AND AS PRESIDENT,
I WILL ACT ON THEM.
6
FOR AMERICA, IT SEEMS TO ME, MEANS PRIDE --
INDIVIDUALLY, CULTURALLY AND RACIALLY. AMERICA MEANS, IN
THE WORDS OF DR. KING, THAT "INJUSTICE ANYWHERE IS A
THREAT TO JUSTICE EVERYWHERE." IT MEANS OPPORTUNITY FOR
THOSE WHO NEED JOBS AND WHO DREAM OF OWNING HOMES. AND IT
MEANS THE HOPE THAT TOMORROW WILL BE BRIGHTER THAN TODAY.
How CAN WE BEST INSPIRE THAT HOPE, AND SECURE THE
PROMISE OF AMERICA? I SAY THE ANSWER IS EDUCATION.
7
EDUCATION KNOWS NO BARRIERS, ACCEPTS NO LIMITS.
EDUCATION IS A LADDER; IT EMBODIES SELF-RESPECT, NOT
DEPENDENCY. EDUCATION CAN GIVE MINORITIES A GREATER VOICE
-- AND MAKE SURE THAT VOICE IS HEARD.
SINCE 1944, WHEN DR. PATTERSON FOUNDED THE UNCF, YOUR
VOICE HAS RESOUNDED FROM COLLEGES LIKE TUSKEGEE,
MOREHOUSE, SPELLMAN, AND FISK. BLACK COLLEGES HAVE
ENNOBLED SUCH AMERICANS AS LEONTYNE PRICE, FRANK YERBY,
Azie ((AZZ-EE)) TAYLOR MORTON, AND OUR NEXT SECRETARY OF
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, DR. LOUIS SULLIVAN.
8
((LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING ABOUT LEW SULLIVAN.
BARBARA SERVED ON THE BOARD OF MOREHOUSE MEDICAL COLLEGE.
LEW WAS PRESIDENT OF THAT COLLEGE. IT WAS SAID I
APPOINTED LEW BECAUSE OF BARBARA'S FRIENDSHIP WITH THE
SULLIVANS. WRONG -- I KNEW LEW FIRST. I APPOINTED HIM
BECAUSE OF HIS ABILITY. AND YES, I CONFESS, BECAUSE HE IS
so DEDICATED TO MOREHOUSE AND IS SUCH A HARD CHARGING
LEADER THAT MY WIFE WAS SPENDING MORE TIME ON MOREHOUSE
MATTERS THAN SHE WAS ON FAMILY AND LITERACY PUT
TOGETHER.))
9
As YOU KNOW, IN SEPTEMBER 1981, PRESIDENT REAGAN
SIGNED EXECUTIVE ORDER 12320, COMMITTING THE FEDERAL
GOVERNMENT TO INCREASE ITS SUPPORT OF HISTORICALLY BLACK
COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES.
OUR GOAL WAS TO IDENTIFY, AND ELIMINATE, UNFAIR
BARRIERS TO PARTICIPATION IN FEDERALLY-SPONSORED PROGRAMS.
OUR MEANS WAS TO INVOLVE THE PRIVATE SECTOR, AND TO
MOTIVATE THE 27 FEDERAL AGENCIES WHICH PROVIDE NEARLY ALL
THE FEDERAL FUNDING.
DID IT WORK? DID IT EVER.
10
IN FISCAL YEAR 1981, HBCUs RECEIVED $545 MILLION IN
FEDERAL ASSISTANCE. IN FISCAL YEAR 1987, THAT SUM TOTALED
$684 MILLION. MOREOVER, RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, WHICH
INCLUDES FUNDS FOR NON-SCIENTIFIC INSTITUTIONAL
DEVELOPMENT, COMPRISED NEARLY HALF OF ALL FUNDING FOR
HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES. OUR WHITE HOUSE SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOSTERED SCIENCE,
MATHEMATICS, AND ENGINEERING PROGRAMS AND CURRICULA.
11
THIS COMPREHENSIVE HBCU EFFORT HAS ATTACKED THE FOUR
HORSEMEN OF THE AMERICAN NIGHT -- ILLITERACY AND
INEQUALITY, INDIGENCE AND FEAR.
GREAT BEGINNINGS, YES. Now, LET US BUILD UPON THEM.
WE HAVE DONE MUCH. BUT THERE REMAINS so MUCH MORE LEFT TO
DO.
12
((You KNOW, THERE'S AN OLD NEW ENGLAND STORY ABOUT A
MAN, STUCK IN THE MUD WITH HIS CAR, WHO WAS ASKED BY A
PASSING MOTORIST WHETHER HE WAS REALLY STUCK. "WELL, YOU
COULD SAY I WAS STUCK," THE FELLOW SAID, "IF I WAS REALLY
GOING ANYWHERE."))
WELL, MY FRIENDS, 8 WEEKS AGO, I MET WITH THE
PRESIDENTS OF HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES TO PROBE EXACTLY
WHERE WE ARE GOING, AND HOW. WE DISCUSSED FACULTY
DEVELOPMENT AND MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS, COMMUNITY COLLEGE
GRANTS AND INSTITUTIONAL PLANNING.
13
IN EACH CASE, WE EXPLORED FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SUPPORT OF
PUBLIC/PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS, TASK FORCES, CONFERENCES,
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE, AND THE USE OF FEDERAL RESEARCH AND
DEVELOPMENT FUNDS.
FROM THAT MEETING, AND OTHERS LIKE IT, CAME SIX NEW
INITIATIVES WHICH WILL HELP DO, NATIONALLY, WHAT YOU HAVE
DONE, HISTORICALLY: ENRICH EDUCATION, so THAT EDUCATION
CAN ENRICH OUR LIVES.
14
AFTER LISTENING TO YOUR PRESIDENTS, I PROPOSED THAT
CONGRESS FUND $60 MILLION OVER FOUR YEARS IN ENDOWMENT
MATCHING GRANTS FOR HBCUs. WE HAVE PUT OUR MONEY ON THE
TABLE. Now, I CHALLENGE THE PRIVATE SECTOR: THE TIME HAS
COME FOR YOURS.
SECONDLY, IF EXCELLENCE BREEDS ACHIEVEMENT, THAT
EXCELLENCE SHOULD BE REWARDED -- IN GRADE SCHOOL, IN HIGH
SCHOOL, AND AT OUR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES.
15
ACCORDINGLY, I WANT CONGRESS TO CREATE A $500 MILLION
PROGRAM TO REWARD AMERICA'S "MERIT SCHOOLS" -- THE SCHOOLS
WHICH IMPROVE THE MOST.
THIRDLY, I WANT IT TO CREATE SPECIAL PRESIDENTIAL
AWARDS FOR THE BEST TEACHERS IN EVERY STATE.
AND NEXT, I WANT TO SEE THE EXPANDED USE OF MAGNET
SCHOOLS -- TO GIVE PARENTS AND STUDENTS THE FREEDOM OF
CHOICE.
16
I HAVE ALSO PROPOSED A NEW PROGRAM TO ENCOURAGE
"ALTERNATIVE CERTIFICATION" -- TO ALLOW TALENTED AMERICANS
FROM EVERY FIELD TO TEACH IN AMERICA'S CLASSROOMS.
CONSIDER THAT TODAY, IN MANY AREAS, A JOHN UPDIKE, AN ALEX
HALEY, COULDN'T QUALIFY TO TEACH HIGH SCHOOL CREATIVE
WRITING.
((IN FACT, I REMEMBER GRADUATING FROM COLLEGE IN 1948
AND MOVING OUT TO WEST TEXAS. I'LL NEVER FORGET WANTING
TO DO SOME TEACHING AND BEING TOLD THAT MY BRAND NEW PHI
BETA KAPPA DEGREE FROM YALE WASN'T ENOUGH.
17
AND I HAVE TO TELL YOU, I'M JUST NOW GETTING OVER THE
SCARS
OF COURSE, LAST NOVEMBER HELPED ...))
BUT MY POINT IS, WHEN RULES ARE so INFLEXIBLE THAT
CREATIVITY, TALENT, AND IMAGINATION AREN'T WELCOME IN OUR
SCHOOLS, IT'S TIME TO CHANGE THE RULES.
AND FINALLY, THROUGH A NEW PROGRAM OF NATIONAL
SCIENCE SCHOLARS, I SEEK TO GIVE AMERICA'S YOUTH A SPECIAL
INCENTIVE TO EXCEL IN SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS. THE
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION PREDICTS A SHORTAGE OF 400,000
SCIENTISTS BY THE YEAR 2000.
18
THROUGH EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION, WE MUST, AND WILL,
REVERSE THAT TREND.
AND, YET, ALL OF THIS IS NOT ENOUGH. IT NEVER IS.
As AMERICANS, WE ARE NEVER SATISFIED. WE KNOW THAT WHEN A
DREAM COMES TRUE, IT GIVES RISE TO EVEN BIGGER AND BETTER
DREAMS.
LET US WORK, THEN, TO BUILD A BETTER AMERICA. AND
LET US BEGIN BY ENDING DRUG ABUSE.
MY FRIENDS, DRUG ABUSE IS AMERICA'S TWENTIETH-CENTURY
VERSION OF HUMAN SLAVERY.
19
IT CHAINS THE SPIRIT, AND IMPERILS THE ABILITY TO LEARN.
To COMBAT DRUGS, WE MUST MOBILIZE OUR RESOURCES -- FISCAL,
MORAL, SPIRITUAL, ECONOMIC -- AND WAGE UNCONDITIONAL WAR.
AND WE MUST FIGHT ON EVERY FRONT: EDUCATION, TREATMENT,
INTERDICTION, ENFORCEMENT.
LAST MONTH, I ASKED CONGRESS FOR AN INCREASE OF
ALMOST $1 BILLION IN BUDGET OUTLAYS TO ESCALATE OUR WAR.
THIS IS A WAR WE MUST AND WILL WIN. THE FUTURE OF OUR
NATION AND THE LIVES OF OUR CHILDREN DEPEND ON IT.
20
EARLIER, I MENTIONED THE PROMISE OF AMERICA: HOPE,
PRIDE, OPPORTUNITY, JUSTICE. A DRUG-FREE AMERICA FULFILLS
THAT PROMISE. So, Too, DO ENTERPRISE ZONES.
ENTERPRISE ZONES ARE A PIONEERING INITIATIVE TO
ESTABLISH A NUMBER OF FEDERALLY-DESIGNATED ZONES -- OR
AREAS -- IN ECONOMICALLY DISTRESSED COMMUNITIES. BY
PROVIDING TAX BREAKS AND RELIEF FROM REGULATION, THEY
FOSTER A CLIMATE WHERE NEW BUSINESSES CAN BE CREATED, AND
EXISTING BUSINESSES EXPANDED.
21
THESE BUSINESSES WILL CREATE NEW JOBS IN THESE TARGETED
COMMUNITIES, ESPECIALLY FOR DISADVANTAGED WORKERS.
ALREADY, 37 STATES HAVE DEVELOPED ENTERPRISE ZONE
PROGRAMS. It's TIME WE PUT THEM TO WORK AT THE FEDERAL
LEVEL. LOCAL COMMUNITIES WILL BENEFIT. BUT, MORE
IMPORTANTLY, THOSE WHO NEED A HELPING HAND -- THE
UNEMPLOYED, THE DISPOSSESSED -- WILL GAIN NEW HOPE AND
OPPORTUNITY: NOT ACROSS TOWN, BUT IN THEIR OWN BACK
YARDS.
22
ENTERPRISE ZONES CAN SERVE THE MOST VULNERABLE AMONG
US. WELL, so, Too, WILL CHILD CARE, FAIR HOUSING, AND
MINORITY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT. THEY BUILD LONG-TERM
OPPORTUNITY -- THE KIND OF EQUALITY THAT LASTS. THEY WILL
ENRICH THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR ALL AMERICANS.
As PART OF OUR NEW CHILD-CARE INITIATIVE, TARGETED AT
LOW-INCOME FAMILIES, I HAVE ASKED FOR $250 MILLION MORE
FOR THE HEAD START PROGRAM. THIS FEDERAL PROGRAM MUST,
AND WILL, SERVE INCREASING NUMBERS OF FOUR-YEAR-OLDS.
23
FOR WORKING PARENTS WITH CHILDREN UNDER FOUR, WE'VE
PROPOSED A NEW TAX CREDIT TO MAKE CHILD CARE MORE
AFFORDABLE. AND WE WANT TO MAKE THE EXISTING CHILD CARE
CREDIT REFUNDABLE TO FAMILIES WHO DON'T PAY TAXES. MY
PROPOSAL PUTS MONEY IN THE HANDS OF LOW-INCOME PARENTS,
LIMITS FEDERAL INTERVENTION, AND INCREASES OPTIONS -- A
CHURCH CAN HELP; OR GRANDPARENTS; OR PROFESSIONAL NURSERY.
IN SHORT, WE SAY: LET THE PARENTS DECIDE.
24
To US, CHILD CARE MEANS OPTIONS. WELL, THAT IS ALSO
TRUE OF THE INALIENABLE RIGHT OF EVERY AMERICAN TO LIVE
WHERE HE CHOOSES, WHEN HE CHOOSES, FOR AS LONG AS HE
CHOOSES, WITHIN HIS MEANS. It's AS SIMPLE AS IT SOUNDS --
A SIMPLE MATTER OF WHAT'S RIGHT, AND WHAT'S WRONG. UNDER
THIS ADMINISTRATION, YOU HAVE MY PLEDGE: WE WILL
VIGOROUSLY ENFORCE THE FEDERAL FAIR HOUSING AcT.
FINALLY, FOUR DAYS AGO, THE OFFICE OF MINORITY
BUSINESS ENTERPRISE, RENAMED THE MINORITY BUSINESS
DEVELOPMENT AGENCY, MARKED ITS 20TH BIRTHDAY.
25
WE WILL EXPAND ITS INVOLVEMENT IN THE FREE ENTERPRISE
SYSTEM. AND WE'LL PROMOTE OTHER PROGRAMS WHICH SPUR
HOUSING, INVESTMENT, JOBS, AND TRAINING. THE JOB TRAINING
PARTNERSHIP AcT, FOR INSTANCE. THE SMALL BUSINESS
ADMINISTRATION.
YES, HOPE, PRIDE, OPPORTUNITY, JUSTICE. I THOUGHT OF
THOSE QUALITIES WHEN I RECEIVED A LETTER, RECENTLY, FROM A
MOTHER IN NEW ORLEANS. SHE IS 48 YEARS OLD, AND WIDOWED.
SHE HAS FOUR SONS, AND HER FAMILY IS IN DEBT. BUT THEY
ARE PROUD AND UNAFRAID, BECAUSE EDUCATION IS THEIR ALLY.
26
THE MOTHER IS PURSUING A MASTERS DEGREE IN SOCIAL
WORK; LAST YEAR, HER ELDEST SON GRADUATED FROM THE
UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO. AND THE THREE OTHER KIDS ARE
COLLEGE STUDENTS -- INCLUDING, SHE WROTE, "THE BABY OF THE
FAMILY: A 6-FOOT-6, 240-POUND FRESHMAN AT GRAMBLING STATE
UNIVERSITY."
"I IMPLORE YOU," THE MOTHER ASKED, "To THINK ABOUT
PEOPLE SUCH AS MYSELF AND MY SONS." AND THEN SHE
ADDED: "P.S. WE'RE BLACK BUT OPTIMISTIC THAT WE CAN BE A
PART OF THE AMERICAN DREAM."
27
MY FRIENDS, I WANT AN AMERICA WHERE THIS DEDICATED
MOTHER DOES NOT HAVE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN "BLACK" AND
"OPTIMISTIC." THE WORDS ARE NOT MUTUALLY EXCLUSIVE -- NOT
A CONTRADICTION IN TERMS. AND I WANT OUR POLICIES TO
SERVE AND ENCOURAGE THIS FAMILY, AND MILLIONS LIKE IT
EVERYWHERE. BECAUSE THEY REFLECT THE PROMISE OF AMERICA
AND WE MUST HELP MAKE THAT PROMISE A REALITY.
THE PROMISE OF AMERICA SAYS THAT BY ASSURING
EQUALITY, WE CAN ENHANCE GREATER OPPORTUNITY.
28
IT SAYS THAT OUR DESTINY IS NOT DIVISIBLE, AND THAT WE ARE
CHILDREN OF THE SAME HUMANE AND LOVING GOD.
THE PROMISE OF AMERICA DEMANDS THAT WE AID OUR
COMMUNITIES AND ASSIST OUR NEIGHBORS. IT RESTS LESS ON
PROMISES AND POLITICIANS THAN ON THE PRIMACY OF THE HEART.
THE PROMISE OF AMERICA KNOWS NEITHER RACE, CREED,
SEX, OR COLOR. IT IS COLLECTIVE AND INDIVIDUAL, AND AS
BOUNDLESS AS OUR HISTORY. THE PROMISE OF AMERICA SAYS
THAT GOVERNMENT IS BUT A CUSTODIAN OF AMERICA'S FUTURE --
BUT THAT YOU -- THE PEOPLE -- YOU ARE HER ARCHITECTS.
29
DR. BENJAMIN E. MAYS ONCE OBSERVED, "IT MUST BE BORNE
IN MIND THAT THE TRAGEDY OF LIFE DOES NOT LIE IN NOT
REACHING YOUR GOAL. THE TRAGEDY LIES IN HAVING NO GOAL TO
REACH."
MY FELLOW CITIZENS, TO OPEN WIDE THE DOOR OF
OPPORTUNITY AND EQUALITY TO ALL AMERICANS -- THIS IS OUR
GOAL, AND THE TRUE PROMISE OF AMERICA. LET US ACHIEVE IT,
TOGETHER, AS AMERICANS AND AS FRIENDS.
THANK YOU FOR INVITING ME, GOD BLESS YOU ALL, AND GOD
BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.