Along with the National Cancer Institute, it's working to establish partnerships between our nation's premier cancer centers and minority medical schools. So we have much to celebrate on this tenth anniversary. Today also happens to mark another anniversary. I can't imagine any game better suited to our national character than our national past time. In baseball, no shot clock or penalty clock or game clock influences victory or defeat.
Baseball is built on the premise of equality.
Of course, equality isn't only the hallmark of America's favorite sport-it's also the benchmark of America itself. Unfortunately, it's a benchmark that we haven't always met-especially in the area of minority health. We may have the finest health care system in the world-but too many of our citizens enjoy less years in their lives.and less health in their lives. As many of you know, in 1998 the President and Vice-President called on the nation to eliminate racial and health care disparities in six areas by 2010. And to make that goal a reality, we've asked Congress to commit 400 million dollars to close the gaps in health outcomes.