It is also division by class. I am deeply troubled by these statistics and I am even more saddened that, in 40 years, the United States is still confronting some of the same demons. A country can be a superpower, but it is humbling to know that in spite of our great wealth and political stability, we are still plagued by many of society's ills. There is still much work to do. I welcome any opportunity to return to South Africa, but I was particularly clear about one thing . . .
Education is the key to the future.
I know that is your mission. I am equally sure that most of you have learned from hard experience that civic education must be an intrinsic part of the educational process. Knowledge of rights and social responsibilities on the part of citizens insure a stable and healthy society. This conference is extremely important because it brings together people from different lands and governments to network common civic goals, problems, and solutions. We can no longer afford the luxury of isolationism.