It is a responsibility that falls squarely on the shoulders of every member of our organizations and communities. The mere passage of time will not excise the evils of racism and discrimination. Active efforts must continue in the present and we must be deliberate in our planning to address these concerns in the future. Our children and grandchildren deserve a better inheritance than trite platitudes denouncing racism and symbolic efforts toward its eradication. I believe today that there is a need for all people of goodwill to come with a massive act of conscience and say that racism is wrong, eradicating it is right.
Discrimination is wrong, eliminating it is right.
Racial injustice is wrong, fundamental fairness for all is right. These are important and critical matters that must be faced and resolved.