Transcripts For CSPAN3 The 20240704

Us for thanks for joining us for cspans American History series, speeches that defined of president. Tonight, our focus is on to president , george h. W. Bush and bill clinton. In 1 won 12 days after leading forces against george bush went before congress to talk about the hard work of freedom. And 1985 at the university of texas in austin, bill clinton talked about Race Relations and the opportunity to improve them. Heres president bush and president clinton. [applause] members of the congress, i have a high privilege and distinct honor of presenting to you the president of the United States. [applause] thank you very much sir. Thank you, [applause] mister president and mister speaker and members of the United States congress, i come to this house of the people to speak to you and all americans. Certain that we stand at a defining hour. Halfway around the world, we are engaged in a great struggle in the skies and on the seas and sand. We know i wear their, we are americans. Part of something larger than ourselves. So for two centuries, weve done the hard work of freedom and tonight we lead the world in facing down the threat to decency and humanity. What is at stake is more than one small country. It is a big idea, the new world order, or diverse nations are drawn together in common cause to achieve the universal aspirations of mankind. Peace and security, freedom and the rule of law. Such is a world worthy of our struggle and worthy of our childrens future. [applause] the community of nations has resolutely gathered to condemn and repel lawless aggression. Saddam husseins unprovoked invasion is ruthless, systematic of a peaceful neighbor, violated everything the community of nations hold dear. The world has said, this aggression would not stand. And it will not stand. Together [applause] together, we have resisted the trap of appeasement, cynicism and isolation that gives temptation to tyrants. The world has answered saddams invasion with 12 United Nations resolutions. Starting with the demand for iraqs immediate and unconditional withdrawal and backed up by forces from 28 countries of six continents. With few exceptions, the world now stands at one. The end of the cold war has been a victory for all humanity. A year and a half ago, in germany, i said that our goal was a europe full and free. Tonight, germany is united, europe has become a whole and free. And americas leadership was instrumental in making it possible. [applause] a relationship to the soviet union is important. Not only to us but to the world. That relationship has helped to shape these another historic changes. But like many other nations, we have been deeply concerned by the violence in the baltics and we have communicated that concern to the soviet leadership. The principle that has guided i guess is simple. Our objective is to help the baltic peoples achieved their aspirations, and not to punish the soviet union. [applause] in a recent discussions with the soviet leadership, we have been given representations which, if fulfilled, would result in the withdrawal of some soviet forces, a reopening of dialogue with the republics and move away from violence. We will watch carefully as the situation develops and we will maintain our contact with the soviet leadership to encourage continued commitment to democratization and reform. [applause] if it is possible, i want to continue to build a lasting basis for u. S. And soviet cooperation, for a more peaceful future for all mankind. The triumph of democratic ideas in Eastern Europe in latin america into the continuing struggle for freedom elsewhere, all around the world, so ill confirm the wisdom of our nations founders. Tonight, we work to achieve another victory. A victory over tyranny and savage aggression. We in this union enter the last decade of the 20th century thankful for our blessings, steadfast in our purpose, aware of our difficulties and responsive to our duties at home and around the world. For two centuries, america has served in the world as an inspiring example of freedom and democracy. For generations, america has led the struggle to preserve and extend the blessings of liberty. In today, in a rapidly changing world, American Leadership is indispensable. Americans know that leadership brings burdens and sacrifices but we also know why the hopes of humanity turn to us. We are americans. We have a unique responsibility to do the hard work of freedom. And when we do, freedomworks. [applause] the conviction encourage we see in the persian gulf today is simply the american character in action. So the indomitable spirit it. It is contributing to this victory for world peace and justice, its the same spirit that gives us the power and the potential to meet our toughest challenges at homes. We are resolute and resourceful. If we can selflessly confront the evil for the sake of good in a land so far away, then surely we can make this land all that it should be. If anyone tells you that americas best days are behind her, theyre looking the wrong way. [applause] tonight, i come before this house and the American People with an appeal for renewal. This is not merely a call for a new government initiative, its a call for new initiatives in government. In our communities and from every american, to prepare for the next american century. America has always lead by example. So who among us will set the example . Which of our citizens will lead us in this next american century. Everyone who steps forward today to get one addict off drugs, to convince one troubled teenager not to give up on life, to comfort one aid patient, to help one hungry child. We have within our reach the promise of a renewed america. We can find meaning in rewarded by serving some higher purpose than ourselves. A shining purpose, the elimination of 1000 points of light. It is expressed by all who know the Irresistible Force of a childs hand. Have a friend who stands by and stays there. Volunteers generous gesture. And idea that is simply right. The problems before us may be different but the key to solving them remains the same. It is the individual who steps forward and the state of our union is the union of each of us. I went to the other, the sum of our friendships, marriages, families and communities. We all have Something Big this. So, you know how to read, find someone who can. Get a, hammer find a nail, if youre not hungry, not lowly, not in trouble, you get someone who is. Join the community of conscience. Do the hard work of freedom. That will define the state of our union. [applause] since the birth of our nation, we have the people it has been a source of our strength. What government could do alone is limited, but the potential of the American People knows no limits. Were a nation of rock solid realism and idealism. We are americans, where the nation that believes in the future. We are the nation that can shape the future and we have begun to do just that by strengthening the power and the choice of individuals and families. Together, these last two years, we put dollars for childcare directly in the hands of parents instead of bureaucracies. [applause] unshackled, the potential of americans with disability. [applause] applied the creativity to the marketplace in the service of the environment for clean air and made homeownership possible for more americans. [applause] the strength of a democracy is not in bureaucracy. It is in the people and their communities, in everything that we do. Let us unleash the potential of our most precious resource. Our citizens, our citizens themselves. We must return to, family community, counties, cities, states and institutions of every kind. The power to chart their own destiny and the freedom an opportunity provided by strong Economic Growth. Thats what america is all about. [applause] i know tonight, in some regions of our country, people are in genuine economic distress and i hear them. Earlier this month, Kathy Blackwell of massachusetts wrote me about what can happen when the economy slows down, saying, my heart is aching and i think that you should know, your people out here are hurting badly. I understand and im not unrealistic about the future. But there are reasons to be optimistic about our economy. First, we dont have to fight double digit inflation. Second, most industries wont have to make big cuts in production because they dont have big inventory piled up. And a third, our experts are running solid and a strong. In fact, american businesses are exploiting at a record rate. So, lets put these times in perspective. Together, since 1981, weve created almost 20 million jobs, cut inflation in half and cut Interest Rates and a half. And yes, the largest peacetime economic expansion in history has been temporarily interrupted. But our economy is still over twice as large as our closest competitor. We will get this recession behind, s and return to growth soon. [applause] we will get on our way to a new record of expansion and achieve the competitive strength that will carry us into the next american century. We should focus our efforts today on encouraging Economic Growth. Investing in the future and getting power and opportunity to the individuals. We must [applause] we must begin with control of federal spending. Thats why [applause] thats why im submitting a budget that holds the growth and spending to less than the rate of inflation. Thats why, amid all the sound and fury of last years budget debate, we put in the law knew in forcible spending caps so that future spending debates will mean a battle of ideas, not a bidding war. [applause] and though controversial, the budget agreement finally put the federal government on a pay as you go plan and cut the growth of debt by nearly 500 billion dollars. That frees funds for saving and job creating investment. Now, lets do more. My budget again includes tax free Family Savings account, penalty free withdrawals from i. R. A. S for first time home buyers [applause] and to increase jobs and growth, a reduced tax foot long term Capital Gains. [applause] i know there are differences among us about the impact and effect of the Capital Gains incentive. So, tonight, im asking the congressional leaders in the Federal Reserve to cooperate with us in a study led by chairman Alan Greenspan to sort of a technical differences, so that we can avoid a return to unproductive partisan bickering. Just as our efforts will bring Economic Growth now, and in the future they must also be matched by long Term Investments for the next american century. That requires a forwardlooking plan of action. Thats exactly what we will be sending to the congress. For us investments in americas future, children, education, infrastructure, space and high technology. Legislation to achieve excellence in education. Building on the partnerships forged with the 50 government is at that education summit. Enabling parents to choose their children schools and now bank make america number one in math and science. [applause] a blueprint for a new national highway system, a critical investment in our transportation infrastructure. [applause] a research and Development Agenda that includes record levels of federal investment and a permanent tax credit to strengthen private r and d and to create jobs. [applause] comprehensive National Energy strategy that calls for Energy Conservation and efficiency, increased development and greater use of alternative fuels. A banking reform plan to bring americas Financial System to the 21st century, so that our banks remain safe and secure and continue, can continue, to make good job creating loans for our factories, businesses and home buyers. You know, i do think that there has been too much pessimism. Sound banks should be making sound loans now and Interest Rates should be lower now. In addition to these proposals, we must recognize that our economic strength depend on being competitive in world markets. We must continue to expand american exports. A successful uruguay round of world trade negotiations will create more real jobs and more real growth for all nations. He and i know that, if the Playing Field is level, the americas workers and farmers can outwork, out produce anyone, anytime, anywhere. And with a mexican free trade agreement, and our enterprise for the americas initiative, we can help our partners strengthen their economy and move toward a free trade zone throughout this entire hemisphere. [applause] the budget also includes a plan of action right here at home to put more power and opportunity in the hands of the individual. That means new incentives to create jobs in our inner cities, by encouraging investment through enterprise zones. It also means tenant control and ownership of public housing. Freedom and the power to choose should not be the privilege of wealth. They are the birthright of every american. Civil rights are also crucial to protecting equal opportunity. [applause] every one of us has a responsibility to speak out against racism, bigotry and hate. [applause] we will continue our vigorous enforcement of existing statute and i will once again press the congress to strengthen the laws against employment discrimination, without resorting to the use of unfair preferences. [applause] we are determined to protect another fundamental civil right, freedom from crime and the fear that stocks are cities. The attorney general will soon convene a crime summit of our nations Law Enforcement officials. Help us support them, we need tough crime control legislation, and we need it now. [applause] and as we fight crime, we will fully implement our National Strategy for combatting drug abuse. Recent data shows that we are making progress. But much remains to be done. We will not rest until the day of the dealer is over forever. [applause] Good Health Care is every americans right at every americans responsibility. And so, we are proposing an Aggressive Program of new prevention initiatives for infant, for children, for adults and for the elderly, to promote a healthier america and help keep costs from spiralling. [applause] its time to give people more choice and government, by reviving the ideal of the citizen politician who comes not to stay but to serve. And one of the reasons that there is so much support across this country for term limitations is that the American People are increasingly concerned about big money influence in politics. So, we must like beyond the next election to the next generation and the time has come to put the National Interests above the special interests, to totally eliminate political actions committees. [applause] that would truly put more competition in elections and more power in the hands of individuals. And where power cannot be put directly in the hands of the individual, it should be moved closer to the people, away from washington. The federal government too often treats Government Programs as if they are of washington, washington and for washington. Once established, federal program seemed to become immortal. Its time for a more Dynamic Program life cycle. Some programs should increase. Some should decrease. Some should be terminated and some should be consolidated and turned over to the state. [applause] my budget includes a list of programs for potential turnover, totaling more than 20 billion dollars. Working with congress and the governors, i propose we select at least 15 billion dollars in such programs and turn them over to the states in a single, consolidated grant, fully funded for flexible management by the state. [applause] the value of this turnover approach is straightforward. It lands the federal government to reduce overhead, it allows states manage more flexibly and more efficiently. The most power and decisionmaking closer to the people and it reinforces the theme of this administration, appreciation and encouragement of the innovative powers of states as laboratories. This nation was founded by leaders who understood what that power belongs in the hands of people. They plan for the future and southwest must we, here and all around the world. As americans, we know there are times when we must step forward. And accept our responsibility to lead the world away from the dark chaos of dictators, toward the brighter promise of a better day. Almost 50 years ago, we began a long struggle against aggressive totalitarianism. Now, we face another defining our for america and for the world. There is no one more devoted, more committed to the hard work of freedom then every soldier and sailor, every marine, airmen and coast guard desmond, every minute woman now serving in the persian gulf. [applause] what a fitting tribute to them. To think over the wonderful fitting tribute to. Them each of them is volunteered. Providing for this nations defense. They bravely struggle to earn for america and for future generations a just and lasting peace. Our commitment to them must be equal to their commitments to their country. They are truly americas finest. They were in the gulf is not a war we wanted and worked hard to avoid war. For more than five months we along with the arab league and the European Community and the United Nations tried every diplomatic avenue and you and secretary general president s gorbachev and owes all and lou barak invented the and king fight and hassan and prime ministers and majors and tragic, just to name a few. All worked for a solution. Time and again, Saddam Hussein lastly rejected the path of diplomacy and peace. The world well knows how this conflict began and when. An august 2nd, when sudan invaded and sacked a small, defenseless neighbor. And i am certain of how it will and in the peace can prevail, we will prevail. Tonight i am pleased to deport that we are on. Course iraqs capacity to sustain war and stay destroyed. Our investing, our training, our planning are all play off time will not be set insulation. Our purpose in the persian gulf remains constant. To drive iraqi out of the way. To restore kuwait citizen its government and to ensure the stability and security of this critical region. Let me make clear what i mean by the recent stability and security. We do not speak about the destruction of iraq. Its culture. Or its people. Rather we seek an iraq that uses its great resources not to destroy and not to stir the ambitions of a tyrant but to build a lot better life for itself and its neighbors we seek a portrait persian golf where conflict is no longer the rule for the strong another tempted nor able to intimidate the week. Most americans know instinctively while we are in the gulf and they know we have to stop sudan now not later and they know that this brutal dictator will do anything. Well use any weapon. We commit any outrage. No matter how many innocents suffer. They know we must make sure that control of the worlds Oil Resources does not fall into his hands. Only to finance further aggression. They know, they know that we need to build a new enduring piece based not on armed races and confrontation but on shared principles and the rule of law. And we all realize that our responsibility to be the catalyst for peace in the region does not and with the successful conclusion of this war. Democracy brings the undeniable value of thoughtful descent. And we have heard some dissenting voices here. Some, a handful reckless. Most responsible. But the fact that all voices have the right to speak out is one of the reasons we have been united in purpose and principle for 200 years. Our progress in this great struggle is you two years of vigilance and a steadfast commitment to a strong defense. And, now with her remarkable technological advances like the patriots missile, we can defend against Ballistic Missile attacks aimed innocent civilians and looking for live directed the fbi program to refocus on providing protection from limited Ballistic Missile strikes. Whatever their source. Let us pursue an fbi program that can deal with any future threat to the United States. To our forces overseas. And to our friends and allies. The quality of american technology, thanks to the american worker, as enabled us to successfully deal with difficult military conditions and helped minimize precious loss of life. We have given our men and women the very best. And they deserve it. We have a special place in our hearts with a family, of our men and women serving in the gulf. They are represented here tonight by mrs. Norman shore scott. You are all very grateful. General and to all those serving with him. I would also recognize one who came with mrs. Schwarzkopf, alma powell, wife of the distinguish airman of the joint chief. To the families, let me say, our forces in the gulf will not stay there. One day longer than is necessary to complete their mission. The courage and the success of the r. A. F. Pilots, of the kuwaiti, saudi, french, the canadian, the italian, the pilots of qatar and bahrain, all are proof for the First Time Since world war ii, the International Community is united. The leadership of the United Nations once only a hope for ideal is now confirming its founders vision. And i am heartened that we are not being asked to bear land the Financial Burdens of this struggle. Last year our friends and allies provided the bulk of the Economic Cost of desert shields. Now having received commitments of over 40 billion dollars of 1991, i am confident they will do no less as we move through desert storms. But the world has to wonder, whats the dictator of iraqs thinking. If he thinks that by targeting innocent civilians in israel and saudi arabia, he will gain advantage, he is dead wrong. And if he thinks he will advance his cause through tragic and despicable environmental terrorism than he is dead wrong. If he thinks the by abusing the coalition prisoners of war he will benefit, he is dead wrong. You will succeed in the golf. When you, to the World Community you have set an enduring warning. Through any dictator or despots, present our future, who contemplates outlawed russian. The world can therefore seize this opportunity to fulfill the long held part promise of a new world order. Where brutality will go unrewarded. And aggression will meet collective resistance. Yes, United States bears a major share of leadership in this effort. Nations of the world, only the United States of america will back it up. We are the only nations are this or that will assemble the forces of peace. This is a burden of leadership. And the strength that it has made america a beacon of freedom in a searching world. This nation has never found glory in war. Our people have never wanted to abandon the blessings of home and work for distant lands. And deadly conflict. If we fight in anger, it is only because we have to fight it all. And all of us yearn for a world where we will never have to fight again. Each of us will measure within ourselves the value of this great struggle. And the cost in the lives, any cost, is beyond our power to measure. The cost of closing ice to ration is beyond mankinds power to imagine. This we do know. Our causes, just our causes moral, our cause is right. But future generations understand burdens and blessings of freedom. Let them say we stayed for duty where it required us to stand. Let them know thats together, we have affirmed america and the world as a community of conscience. The winds of change are with us now. The forces of freedom are together, united. As we move to the next century, more confident than ever that we have the will at home and abroad to do what must be done. The hard work of freedom. May god bless the United States of america. Tank you very very much. Thank you all. Thank you. And you are watching American History tv, that defined the presidency. Were gonna turn to george h. W. Bush, successor bill clinton at the university of texas, talking about Race Relations. 1995. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you very much. You know, when i was a boy growing up in arkansas, i thought it highly unlikely that i would ever become president of the United States. Perhaps the only thing even more unlikely was that i would need to be chaired at the university of texas. Very grateful for both of them olson. Susie texas law horn than thank you and magnificent. My longtime friend of nearly 25 years, thank you for your statement and your inspiration and your life of generous giving to this Great University and so many other good causes. All the distinguished guests in the audience, i hesitate to start but i thank my friend and your fellow texans for coming down here with me and for his magnificent work. I thank your congressman and his wife plays a pro find down with me. And im glad to see my dear friend here. Im a ceo. Attorney general and land commissioner, i think you all again for being here. Thank you, lucy johnson, for being here. And please give my regards to your wonderful mother. I have not seen or heard this yet and i have to recognize and thank your former congresswoman and now distinguished professor Barbara Jordan for the magnificent job you did on the immigration issue. Thank you so much. Thank you. Thank you. My wife told me about coming here so much that would like to come and see for myself. I also know as all of you do there is no such thing as saying no to liz carpenter. I dragged that is long as i could just hear a few more jokes. My fellow americans, i want to again tell you that i am hopeful about america. When i look at nicole bell up there introducing mina shook hands with each other, young students, i looked into their eyes and i saw the america button on that gentlemans shirt. I was reminded as i talk about this thorny subject of race today, i was reminded of what Winston Churchill said about the United States. When president roosevelt tried to pass the land lease act that we could help brighten in their war against not see germany, before we ourselves were involved, and for a good while the issue was hanging fire. It was unclear whether the congress would permit us to help them win at times that was the only bulwark against terrorism and tyranny. In europe. Winston churchill said i have great confidence in the judgments and the common sense of the American People and their leaders. They invariably do the right thing and after they have examines every other alternative. So i say to you, let me begin by saying that i can see in the eyes of the students and in the spirit of this moment that we will do the right thing. In race and weeks, every one of us has been made aware of a simple truth. White americans and black americans often see the same world and drastically different ways. Ways that go beyond and beneath the Simpson Trial and its aftermath. Which brought these procession so starkly into the open. The rift that we see before us that is tearing up the heart of america exists in spite of the remarkable Progress Black americans have made in the last generation since Martin Luther king swept america up in his dream. And president johnson spoke so powerfully for the dignity of man and the destiny of democracy. And demanding that congress guaranteeing the Voting Rights. The rift between blacks and whites exist still in a very special way in america, in spite of the fact that we have become much more racially and ethnically diverse. And that hispanic americans themselves are no strangers to discrimination. Are now almost 10 of our national population. The reasons for this divide or many. Some are rooted in the awful history. And stubborn persistence of racism. Some are rooted in the different ways we experience the threats of moderna life. To personal security. Family values and strong communities. Some are rooted in the fact that we still have not learned to talk frankly. To listen carefully. To Work Together across racial lines. Almost 30 years ago dr. Martin luther king took his last march with sanitation workers in memphis. They marched for dignity, equality, and economic justice. Many carried placards that read simply, i am a man. The throngs of men marching in washington today almost all of them are doing so for the same stated reason. But there is a profound difference between this march today and those of 30 years ago. 30 years ago the marchers were demanding the dignity and opportunity they would do to cause in the face of terrible discrimination. They had worked hard, raise their children, pay their taxes, obey the laws and fought armed wars. Todays march is also about pride and dignity and respect but after a generation of deepening social problems, this disproportionately impacts black americans. It is also about black man taking renewed responsibility for themselves, their families, and their communities. It is about saying no to crime and drugs and violence. It is about standing up for atonement and reconciliation. It is about insisting that others do the same. And our friends to help them. It is about the frank admission that unless black man shoulder their load knowing how else can help them their brothers or sisters or their children. Escaping the hard bleak lives that too many of them still face. Of course some of those early march to have a history that is far from its message of atonement and reconciliation. 1 million men are right to be standing up for personal responsibility. But one billion man do not make right one mans message of malice and division. No bag has was ever built on the bad foundation. Nothing good ever came. So let us pray today that all marks and all who speak will stand for atonement and reconciliation and responsibility. Let us pray that those who have spoken for hatred and division in the past will turn away from that past and give voice to the true message of those ordinary americans to march. If that happens, the men and the women who were there with them will be marching into better lives for themselves and their families and they could be marching into a Better Future for america. Today we face a choice. Finally leads to further separation and bitterness and more loss in the future. The other, way the path of courage and wisdom leads to unity and reconciliation and to a rich opportunity for all americans to make the most of the lives god gave them. This moment in which the racial divide is so clearly out in the open, may not be a setback for us. It presents us with a great opportunity and we dare not let it pass us by. In the past when we have had the courage to face the truth about our failure to live up to our own vast ideals, weve grown stronger and moved forward and restored proud american optimism. At such turning points, america moved to preserve the union and abolish slavery. To embrace women suffrage and to guarantee basic legal rights to america without regard to race. Under the leadership of president johnson. And each of these moments, we look to the National Mirror and were brave enough to say, this is not who we are. We are better than that. Abraham lincoln reminded us that a house divided against itself cannot stand. When divisions have threatened to burn our house down, somehow we have always moved together to shore it up. My fellow americans, our house is the greatest democracy in all human history. And with all its racial and ethnic diversity, it has beaten the odds of human history. But we know thats divisions remain. And we still have work to do. The two worlds we see now, each ten contained both truth and distortion. Both black and white americans must face this where honesty is the only gateway to the many acts of reconciliation that will unite our world at last into one america. White america must understand and acknowledge the roots of black pain. It began with unequal treatment first in line later in fact. African americans indians have lives too long with a Justice System into many cases has been and continues to be less than dressed. This extends from lynchings and trumped up charges to false arrests and police brutality. Treasuries of emmett hill and rodney king air bonding markers on the very same road. Still today, to many of our Police Officers how the rules of this old age. It is beyond wrong when lawabiding black parents have to tell their lawabiding children, the police who salaries are paid by their own taxes. And blacks are right to think something is terribly wrong with African American men that many times more likely to be victims of homicide than any other group in this country. When there are more African American man in our corrections systems and then in our colleges. When the most wanted three African American men in their twenties are either in jail on parole or otherwise under the supervision of the criminal Justice System in nearly one in three. That is a disproportionate percentage in comparison to the percentage of blacks that used drugs in our society. Now i would like every white person here and in america to take a moment to think how she would feel if one in three white men were in similar circumstances. There is still an acceptable economic disparity between blacks and whites. Its fashionable to talk today about African Americans as if they have been some sort of protected class. Many whites think blacks are getting more than their fair share in terms of jobs and promotions. That is not true. That is not true. The truth is an African American still make on average about 60 of what white people do. More than half of African American children live in poverty and at the very time are Young Americans need access to college more than ever before, black College Enrollment is dropping in america. On the other hand, blacks must understand and acknowledge the roots of white here in america. There is a legitimate fear of the violence that was prevalent in our urban areas. And often by experience or at least what people see on the news at night, violence for those white people too often as a black face. It is not racist for a parent to pull his or child from walking through a high crime neighborhood. Or to wish to stay away from neighborhoods where innocent children can be shot in school. Or standing it bus stops by that is driving by with a solid. Or toting handguns like old west desperado. It isnt races for parents to recall and discuss when they read by the National Survey of gang member saying that two thirds of them feel justified in shooting someone simply for showing them this respect. It is not racist for whites to say they dont understand why people put up with gangs on the corner in the project with dogs being sold in the school. Its not racist for whites too absence of a cannot be broken by social programs unless there is first more personal responsibility. The Great Potential for this march today, beyond the black community, is that voice will come to see a larger truth. That blacks share their fears, and embrace their convictions. Openly asserts that without changes in the black community, and with individuals, real change for our society will not come. This march put your white people that most black people share their oldfashioned america. Values. For most black americans, they still do work hard to care for their families, pay their taxes. And obey the law. Often under circumstances which are far more difficult than those their white counterparts face. Imagine how you would feel if you are a young parent in your twenties with a young child living in a house, in the Housing Project working for 5 an hour with no Health Insurance passing everyday people in the streets selling drugs making 100 times what you make . Those people are the real heroes of america today, and we should recognize that. White people to often forget that they are not immune to the problems black americans face. Crime, drugs, Domestic Abuse and teen pregnancy. They are too prevalent among whites as well as some of those problems are going faster than our white population than in our minority population. So, well have a stay in solving these common problems together. It is therefore wrong for white americans to do what they have done too often, simply to move further away from the problems and support policies that will only make that moores. Finally, both sides seem to feel deep down inside they will never quite be able to see each other as more than enemy faces. All of whom carry at least a sliver of and their hearts differences of opinion worded is helping to be essential for democracy. Differences so great and so rooted in race, present to divide the house, with where mr. Lincoln gave his life to save. As dr. King said, we must learn to live together as brothers, or we will perish as fools. Recognizing one anothers real grievances is only the first step. We must all take responsibility for ourselves, our conduct, and our attitudes. America, we most clean your house of graces. To our white citizens, i say i know both of you every day doing our very best player on life. To live with discrimination. Nevertheless, to many destructive ideas are gaining currency in our midst to take force of one policeman to without rice. So i said we must clean the house of white america, of races. Americans who are in the white majority should be proud to stand up and be heard and denounced a sort of racist rhetoric we heard on that day so loudly and clearly that saying the way philistines hear us. White racism maybe black peoples burns, but it is what peoples problems. We must clean our to our black citizens, i am honored the presence with hundreds of thousands of men in washington to de committed to atonement to personal responsibility. And a commitment of millions of other men and women, who are African American, to this cause. Share equally in the promise of america. But to do, that your house must be cleaned of racism. There are too many today on a street corners and the radio waves, to speak to division for their own purpose. To them i say, no more. We must be one. Long before we were diverse the nations motto was out of many we are one. We must be one as neighbors and fellow citizens and not separate camps but families white black lets you know and all of us consider basic American Values and are willing to live by them. When it child is gunned down in the bronx no matter what age he is our american child. When a woman dies from a beating, no matter what our race on earth, she is our american sister. Every time drugs course through the veins of another child its about the future of all our American Children whether we like it or, not we are one nation. One family. In the visible. And for us divorce or separation are not options. Here in 1995 on the edge of the 21st century, we do not tolerate the existence of new americans. Under my, watch i will do everything i can to do this in as possible, there is only one. One america under the rule of law. When social contract committed not to winner take all, but to giving all americans a chance to win. Together. One america. How do we get there. First, today i ask every governor every man every business lead in every Church League every civic leader and every student leader, most important every workplace and learning plays and Meeting Place across america. To take personal responsibility, parishioner to people of different races to go to third and talk to us if you. To have the courage to speak honestly, and frankly. Head discipline to listen quietly with an open mind in the open heart, as others do the same. This may seem like a simple request, but for tens of millions of americans this is never been a reality. Theyve never spoken. Theyve never listened. Not really. Not really. I am convinced based irish lifetime of friendships and common endeavors, with people of different races, thats the americans people find as theyve a lot more in common than they think they do. The other thing we can do is defend enhance real opportunity and im not talking about opportunity for black americans are opportunities for white americans. Im talking with opportunities for all americans. Sooner or later, im listening and caring has to lead to constructive action together, for our words and our intentions to have meaning. We can do this first by truly rewarding work and family. In government policy, and employment policy. And community practices. We also have to recognize there are some areas of our country like south texas or eastern arkansas where these problems are going to be more prevalent just because there is no opportunity. Theres only so much some people can stand as they turn up at the brick wall, today after day after day. And if we can spread the benefits of education and Free Enterprise to those who have been denied them to, long cantore slated on place in this country, then we have a moral obligation to do it. It will be good for our country. There are the perhaps most important of all, we have to get every child in this country and every adult the opportunity to get a kite education. President johnson understood that, im privileged to have this job and look back across the whole sweep of American History. I can appreciate how truly historic his commitment to the simple idea that every child in this country ought to have an opportunity to get a good save decent and fulfilling education. Was it was revolutionary, then and it is revolutionary today. Im trying to do my. Part fighting hard against efforts to rollback black family security, distrust communities, and support for education. Its easy for poor children to get a good start in school. Not harder. I wanted to be easier for everybody to go to college, and stay there, not harder. I want to man the front of action but i do not think america is the place today where they can and it. The evidence of the last several weeks shows that. But let us remember that the people marching in washington today are right about one fundamental thing. At its base this issue of race is not about government or political leaders but what is in the heart and life of the American People. There is no absence of real responsibility in the part of all americans. Nowhere is that responsibility more important that their efforts to promote public safety, and preserve the rule of law. Law of order is first, and theres an enforcement. Police have a responsibility, never ever to abuse the power granted them from the people. We know, by the way, what works in fighting crime. Which also happens to improve relationships between the races. What works in fighting Crimes Community belief, weve seen them fighting all across america. The murder rate is down. Where people relate to each other, across the lines of police and community, in an open and honest and respectful and supportive way. We can raise this to the Race Relations in america. If you could remember the simple truth. This is going to work, place departments have to be fair. And engaged, with not estranged from their communities. I am committed to making this kind of community they a reality all across our country. You must be committed to making it a reality, in your community. We have to root out the remnants of racism in our police departments. Weve got to get out of our entire criminal Justice System. But just as the police of a sacred duty to protect the community, all of our citizens have a sacred responsibility to respect the police, to teach our young people to respect them, and then to support them and work with them so that they can succeed in making us safer. Lets not forget most Police Officers of whatever race are honest people who love the wall and put their lives on the line if so the citizens there protecting can lead decent lives. So their children can grow up and do the same. Finally i want to say on the day of this march, a moment but a crucial area responsibility. A responsibility of father hated and the single biggest problem in our society may be the growing absence of fathers from their childrens homes because it contributes to so many others social problems and one child in focus up in a father goes up in a home with a father to help guide and care and teach boys to be man and teach girls to expect respect its harder. Theres a lot of mothers out there doing a magnificent job align and but it is harder it is harder this is not a black problem or a latino problem. It is an american problem. But it aggravates the position of a racial divide. I know from my own life the my own father die before he was born in my stepfathers battle with alcohol kept them from the father might have been. But for all others, parenting is not easy and every parent makes mistakes. I know that too, from my own experience. The point is that we need people to be there for their children, they after today. Building a family is the hardest job i can do. Those who are neglecting my children, i say theres not too late. The children still need you. Those recent money in the form of Child Support keep sending checks so your kids count on them. Well check even enforce the law if you stop. But the message of this march today is that your money is no replacement. If you are guiding in caring and loving children who you brought into this world. We can only build Strong Families when many women respect each other. When manner is involved in the places, women have become involved in the workplace. It means among other things that we must keep working until we and Domestic Violence against women and children. I hope this man in washington today, pledge among other things, to never ever raise their hand in violence against a woman. So, today my fellow americans, i honor the black men marching in washington. To demonstrate to their commitment to themselves, their families in their communities. I honor the millions of men and women in america, the vast majority of every color who without fans for recognition do what it takes to be good fathers because mothers. Good workers and good citizens. They all deserve the thanks of america. But when we leave here today, when youre going to do . What are you going to do . When all of us who want to stand up against racism and do our part to rollback the divide. Began by seeking its people in the workplace, the classroom, the community in the neighborhood across town and the places of worship that actually sit down and have those honest conversations i talked about. Conversations where we speak openly and listen and understand how others view this world of ours. Make no mistake about it, we can bridge this great divide and this is after all a very great country. We have become a great by what we have overcome. We have the worlds strongest economy that is on the move, we were the last ones we understood that the success has never been measured solely by the size of our Gross National product. I believe the march in washington today spawned an outpouring because it is a reflection of something deeper and stronger that is running threat to our American Community and i believe that in millions and millions of different ways, our entire country is reasserting our commitments to the bedrock values that made our country great. And that make life worth living. The great divides of the past called for an where interest behind legal and legislative changes. They were addressed by leaders like lyndon johnson, who passed a Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights act. And to be sure this great divide requires a public response by democratically elected leaders. But today we are really, dealing and we know it, with problems that grow in large measure out of the way all of us look at the world with our minds, in the way we feel about the world. With our hearts. And therefore, while leaders and legislation may be important, this is work that has to be done by every single one of you. This is a offman test of our democracy. For today the house divided exist largely in the minds and hearts of the American People. It must be united there to the minds and hearts of our people. Yes they are some who poison our progress by selling short the great character of our people and our capacity to change and grow but it will not change the day we will win the day. With your help, with your help, that they will come a lot sooner. I will do my part. But, you my fellow citizens, must do yours. Thank you. And god bless you. Next week on speeches that defined the presidency, george w. Bush in 2002, five months after the 9 11 attack. A reminder that all the speeches that we are showing you on this series are available to watch online, at cspan dot org slash history. This, yearbook tv celebrates 25 years of presenting nonfiction books and authors. For the 22nd year in a row, book tv is live at the library of Congress National book festival. Incense 2001, book tv in partnership with the library of congress has provided signature indepth uninterrupted coverage of the National Book festival. Featuring hundreds of nonfiction authors and gas. Watch saturday, as book tv once again brings you live coverage of the National Trust of. All guests and authors include library of congress carla hagan. Buttigieg on, his book i meing to tell, euphoria. Results and former nfl player r c russell, author of the yards between us. See our complete National Book festival schedule online, at booktv. Org. The library of Congress National festival, live saturday, beginning at 9 am eastern on cspan two. Congress returns mid summer cess in september with a busy floor schedule. Ahead both the house and senate are expected to take up ser spending bills with the government next year preventing government shutdown. Current government funding expires on september 30th. Lawmarsre also facing en of the month deadlines to preparedness programs. Emic work on more of president nue bidens judicial and executive nonations, including for the Federal Reserve. Watch live coverage of the house on cspan, the senate on cspan two, and a reminder that you can watch allur congressional coverage withur free video app, cspan now, or online at cspan. Org. Weekends on cspan two are an intellectual feast. Every saturday, American History tv documents america story. And on sunday book tv brings you the latest in nonfiction books and authors. Funding for cspan two comes from these Television Companies and more including communication. Charter is proud to be recognized as one of the best internet providers. 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