Finally, we must also create a government where all public servants can feel comfortable and proud of their service. By contrast, only 4 percent of whites had this view about discrimination against African Americans. If we ignore this perception, we can never achieve our goal of a quality, diverse workforce poised to meet the challenges of public service. It is a perception which I know troubles the President, Vice-President and this entire administration. I want you to know that Director Lachance and I will work with all agencies to guarantee a climate of genuine equal opportunity for all Federal employees.
Discrimination has no place in our government or our country.
I want to begin a dialog with you here today. I invite you to take a seat at the table to help us extend the opportunities of Federal employment to strengthen minority communities and our nation. We have made significant strides, but we have a great deal still to do. Once again, ours must be a cooperative effort if we are to succeed. I am looking forward to meeting this challenge, realizing this dream, with you as our partners.