Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents

Monday, May 5, 1997 Volume 33—Number 18 Pages 587–636

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Addresses and Remarks Interviews With the News Media—Continued See also Meetings With Foreign Leaders Interview with Jacobo Goldstein of CNN Democratic National Committee gala—626 Radio Noticias—621 Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial—631, News conference with Prime Minister 632 Ryutaro Hashimoto of Japan, April 25 (No. Library of Congress, 100th anniversary of the 142)—587 Thomas Jefferson Building—618 Pennsylvania, Presidents’ Summit for Meetings With Foreign Leaders America’s Future in Philadelphia Kickoff—604 Japan, Prime Minister Hashimoto—587 Luncheon—610 Spain, President Aznar—615 Opening ceremony—607 President’s Service Awards Proclamations presentation—605 Loyalty Day—625 Students, teachers, parents, and Older Americans Month—625 AmeriCorps volunteers—612 Radio address—599 Statements by the President Saxophone Club—629 See also Bill Signings White House Correspondents’ Association ‘‘Adoption Promotion Act of 1997,’’ House dinner—601 action—617 Bill Signings Economic expansion and job creation—616 Assisted Suicide Funding Restriction Act of Presidential Advisory Committee on Gulf War 1997, statement—617 Veterans’ Illnesses, interim report—624 Communications to Congress Sentencing Commission action on penalties for drug offenses—614 Cyprus, letter transmitting report—613 Senate confirmation of Alexis Herman as Communications to Federal Agencies Secretary of Labor—617 Excused absence for employees affected by Senate resolution establishing a national day the flooding of the Red River and its to erase the hate and eliminate racism—617 aftermath, memorandum—618 Use of funds for the U.S. contribution to the Supplementary Materials Korean Peninsula Energy Development Acts approved by the President—636 Organization, memorandum—599 Checklist of White House press releases—635 Interviews With the News Media Digest of other White House Exchanges with reporters announcements—634 Oval Office—615 Nominations submitted to the Senate—635

WEEKLY COMPILATION OF regulations prescribed by the Administrative Committee of the Federal Register, approved by the President (37 FR 23607; 1 CFR Part 10). PRESIDENTIAL DOCUMENTS Distribution is made only by the Superintendent of Docu- ments, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. Published every Monday by the Office of the Federal Reg- The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents will be ister, National Archives and Records Administration, Washing- furnished by mail to domestic subscribers for $80.00 per year ton, DC 20408, the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ($137.00 for mailing first class) and to foreign subscribers for ments contains statements, messages, and other Presidential $93.75 per year, payable to the Superintendent of Documents, materials released by the White House during the preceding Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The week. charge for a single copy is $3.00 ($3.75 for foreign mailing). The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents is pub- There are no restrictions on the republication of material lished pursuant to the authority contained in the Federal Reg- appearing in the Weekly Compilation of Presidential Docu- ister Act (49 Stat. 500, as amended; 44 U.S.C. Ch. 15), under ments.

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The President’s News Conference sitivity to their effect on the lives of the Oki- With Prime Minister Ryutaro nawan people. I particularly appreciate the Hashimoto of Japan strong leadership and support for our alliance April 25, 1997 the Prime Minister showed in passing legisla- tion to enable our forces to continue using President Clinton. Good afternoon. Be- these important facilities. fore we begin the discussion of my meetings We also discussed regional security, in- with the Prime Minister, let me say that I cluding our joint interest in promoting peace have just come from signing the instrument and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The of ratification to the Chemical Weapons Con- United States and Japan are united in urging vention, along with the Vice President and North Korea to accept the standing offer for the Secretary of State and others who worked four-party peace talks. I want to thank the very hard for it. Prime Minister for Japan’s role in the Korean Last night’s strong bipartisan vote in the Energy Development Organization that has Senate will keep our soldiers and our citizens helped to keep North Korea’s dangerous nu- safer, and it will send a clear signal that clear program frozen. Americans of both parties are united in their The Prime Minister and I agreed on the resolve to maintain the leadership of our Na- critical importance of cooperative relations tion into the next century. with China. We also agreed on the need for It is very appropriate that the vote took the international community to stand firmly place last night when I was visiting with the behind the progress of democracy in Cam- Prime Minister and that the signing took bodia. We both recognize the importance of place a moment ago while Prime Minister keeping our economic relationship moving in Hashimoto was here, because Japan set a the right direction. Over the last 4 years very strong example for the world by ratifying we’ve worked hard to open markets and this treaty more than a year ago. achieve a better balance in our trade and in- I am particularly pleased on this historic vestment ties. day to welcome the Prime Minister to Wash- I told Prime Minister Hashimoto we need ington. Over the last 2 years, Ryu and I have to build on this success to create new oppor- met many times. We’ve built a good friend- tunities in key sectors for both the workers ship that reflects the shared values and inter- of our country and broad benefits for the ests of the world’s two strongest democracies consumers of Japan. We both want to pro- and leading economies. Today’s discussions mote strong domestic demand-led growth in were no exception. The Prime Minister and Japan and to avoid a significant increase in I continued our work to make sure that our Japan’s external surplus. These are essential partnership meets the challenges of the new to sustaining the progress that has been century. made. Our security alliance remains the corner- I welcome the Prime Minister’s commit- stone of peace and stability in the Asia-Pa- ment to restructuring Japan’s economy, in- cific region. Building on the joint declaration cluding his support of far-reaching deregula- we signed in Japan last April, we are tion. An ambitious reform program should strengthening our cooperation while reduc- bring economic benefits to Japan and im- ing the burden of our bases on the Japanese prove market access for American and other people. Today we reviewed recent progress foreign firms. To this end, we have agreed in consolidating some of our bases in Oki- to intensify talks on deregulation under our nawa in ways that reflect our continuing sen- framework agreement.

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Among the global issues we discussed were explained to President Clinton the efforts my preparations for this June’s Summit of the administration has been making on issues Eight in Denver and how we can work to- concerning Okinawa and its top priority task gether to strengthen reform in the United to secure a solid basis for the stable security Nations. Tomorrow, the Vice President and relationship. President Clinton made it clear the Prime Minister will discuss our common that he will continue to be sensitive to, and agenda to fight disease, protect the environ- cooperative on, issues concerning Okinawa, ment, and meet other important common including the steady implementation of the challenges. SACO final report. Finally, let me say I had the opportunity With regard to the review of the guidelines to thank the Prime Minister for Japan’s ef- for Japan-U.S. defense cooperation, we’ll in- forts to bring our young people closer to- tensify this joint task as we head towards this gether. The new Fulbright Memorial Fund fall. I’d also like to ensure full transparency will send 5,000 American high school teach- both at home and abroad of the review proc- ers and administrators to Japan over the next ess. We also reaffirmed our commitment in 5 years. We welcome the Prime Minister’s the joint declaration that in response to initiatives to send high school students from changes which may arise on the international Okinawa to study in the United States and security environment, we’ll continue to con- will increase our funding for American stu- sult closely on defense policies and military dents to do the same there. These ties of postures, including the U.S. force structure friendship reflect the shared values that un- in Japan which will best meet the require- derpin our vital alliance. ments of the two Governments. If you will permit me to quote a Haiku The second theme is the economic rela- poem, ‘‘Old friends standing tall, spring sun- tionship. I gave to the President updates on light on their shoulders, makes them move the reforms now being undertaken in Japan as one.’’ Moving as one in this time of chal- by the Government and political parties in lenge and change, that’s what Prime Minister unison, especially on structural reforms, in- Hashimoto and I are committed to see the cluding the fiscal reform and consolidation, United States and Japan do. deregulation, and financial system reform. Mr. Prime Minister, welcome. I must say that these reforms do have great Prime Minister Hashimoto. Well, I am relevance to maintaining and enhancing the pleased to be able to make this official visit good bilateral economic relationship we to Washington, DC, and to have had a thor- enjoy today. The President welcomed my ough exchange of views with President Clin- commitment to restructuring Japan’s econ- ton. omy, including far-reaching deregulation. Last night, the President invited me for We both support the common objective of drinks, and we had an enjoyable evening at avoiding a significant increase in Japan’s ex- the White House. There I conveyed to him ternal surplus by promoting strong domestic my sympathies for the damage caused by the demand-led growth in Japan. Furthermore, flood in the Midwest. I also was able to ex- we have decided to have the officials of the press joint pleasure at the approval of the two Governments start discussions on how Chemical Weapons Convention by the Sen- we could enhance the Japan-U.S. dialog on ate. deregulation under our framework. I had 3 hours of frank discussion with Bill The third theme is furtherance of peace as friends and as leaders of the two countries. and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region I believe we have the following four points under Japan-U.S. cooperation and joint lead- as the main themes. ership. In this context, the President and I The first theme is the security relationship, agreed on the special significance of estab- which is the foundation of a Japan-U.S. lishing constructive, cooperative relations friendship and alliance. We fully agreed that with China. We reaffirmed that Japan, the we must further enhance the security rela- United States, and the Republic of Korea will tionship and based on the Japan-U.S. Joint continue to deal with issues concerning the Declaration on Security issued last April. I Korean Peninsula, including early realization

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of the four-party talks and promotion of the benefit of not only the two peoples but also activities by the Korean Peninsula Energy for the Asia-Pacific region and the world as Development Organization, or KEDO, a whole, on the solid basis of my close co- under tripartite coordination. operation with President Clinton. On Cambodia, there was concurrence of Thank you very much. views that the international community President Clinton. What we will do is, needs to send out a political message for the I will call on an American journalist, and then stability of Cambodia under consolidation of the Prime Minister will call on a Japanese democracy. I have dispatched Mr. Komura, journalist. And we’ll begin with Mr. Fournier the State Secretary for Foreign Affairs, to [Ron Fournier, Associated Press]. Cambodia, to fulfill this task. The last, and the fourth theme, is Japan- Tobacco Regulation Ruling U.S. cooperation on global issues. It was re- confirmed in our meeting that we will further Q. Let me ask you a couple questions coordinate our policies on such wide-ranging about an important domestic development issues as the Denver summit, antiterrorism that happened today. The court said that the and anticrime measures, United Nations re- FDA cannot restrict tobacco advertising, forms, cooperation with Russia, and the Mid- which is the cornerstone of your crackdown dle East peace process. against teenage smoking. Other than an ap- I’d like to note here that the seizure of peal, is there any other recourse? For exam- the Japanese Ambassador’s residence in Peru ple, regulating advertising—[inaudible]— recently came to an end, with the three un- would the White House be less likely to push fortunate casualties, yet with a vast majority forward—[inaudible]. of the hostages freed without serious injuries. President Clinton. Well, first of all, this Today our two nations renewed their resolves is, on balance, a great victory for the fight and resolved to condemn and fight terrorism we have been waging for our children’s without succumbing to it, hand in hand with health, because the fundamental legal issue the international community. was, did the FDA have jurisdiction over to- I would also like to welcome the approval bacco companies? And they said yes. And of the Chemical Weapons Convention in the since we believe strongly that for young peo- Senate yesterday, as I mentioned at the out- ple, access equals addiction, the fact that the set. And I certainly welcome the fact that yes includes the ability of the FDA to deal this document was also ratified today. with access of young people to tobacco is a The President and I agreed to strengthen huge victory. And we started out against our efforts to promote common agenda to- overwhelming odds, a very powerful interest wards the 21st century. I proposed to vigor- group; no administration had undertaken this ously promote environmental education, and before. And so I feel a great deal of reassur- I’m happy to have President Clinton’s agree- ance today. ment. As the President mentioned just now, Now, the court also held, as you pointed it gave the two of us much delight that peo- out, that that statute which gave the FDA ple-to-people exchanges between Japan and authority to regulate tobacco and regulate ac- the United States have been steadily widen- cess among other things did not cover, by ing, as exemplified by the teacher exchange its expressed terms, advertising. So we will through the Fulbright Memorial Program appeal that part of it. But this is a day that— and the high school student exchange be- I know Dr. Kessler has already been out cele- tween Okinawa prefecture and the United brating about this. We’re very pleased by the States. court’s decision, especially coming as it does There is no other bilateral relationship in out of North Carolina, and we are deter- the world that has any semblance to the mined to proceed on this course. We think Japan-U.S. relationship in the present and it’s a great victory for us. fundamental importance. In closing, I would Q. Could the FCC regulate advertising— like to reiterate my determination to further [inaudible]—slow down your push for—[in- enhance the Japan-U.S. relationship for the audible].

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President Clinton. I don’t know the an- Japan, and we also would like to proceed with swer to the FCC question. I presume, but this review process in a totally transparent I don’t really know the answer. I can’t—and manner both at home and abroad. And some- in terms of the settlement, let me say that time in May, we would like to announce the we have been involved in the settlement, the various views that are expressed in the proc- White House has, only in a monitoring capac- ess of the Japan-U.S. joint review and the ity. The parties are involved in the settle- items that are being considered, and by so ment. And my concern was twofold only: doing we would like to avoid undue concerns One is to protect the integrity of the FDA’s on the part of other countries and also avoid efforts and to protect our children, and the undue disruptions. second was to make sure that the larger pub- And should there be any pieces of wisdom lic health issues were put front and center. that we could take advantage of, we certainly So I don’t have an opinion about that. I would like to receive them. And I sincerely don’t—I’m not the expert here about the hope that it will be conducive to building up intersection of the legal discussions and the strengthened security relations between the protection of the public health. But I can tell two countries. you that my opinion about any proposed set- tlement, should one ever be agreed to, would China-Russia Agreement be determined solely on what I thought was Q. Mr. President, Mr. Prime Minister, you good for kids and good for the public health. both earlier today said that the China-Russia agreement should not be worrisome as long Japan-U.S. Defense Guidelines as it’s not directed in any negative way toward Q. I would like to ask a question of Prime its neighbors. I’m wondering, given the high Minister Hashimoto. You’ll be completing profile irritants in the U.S. relations toward the review process of the Japan-U.S. defense both Russia and China, how can you be sure guidelines, and I wonder if this will require what the motivation is behind that agree- new contingency legislation. In case such ment, and specifically, how can you be sure new legislations are required for emergency it isn’t directed toward either the United cases, what happens to the consistency with States or any of its neighbors? the Japanese Constitution? President Clinton. Do you want me to Prime Minister Hashimoto. Well, first of go first? all, this review will be conducted solely with- Well, first of all, let me say, if you look in the confines of the Japanese Constitution, at the map and you look at the history of and I would like to make that point clear the 20th century, Russia and China have a first. Having said that, let me say that we lot of things that they need to deal with be- are working very diligently with this review tween themselves. They have a rich history; process of the guidelines. The purpose of re- they have a history of both cooperation and viewing the guidelines is to consider the significant conflict. And if they have a good Japan-U.S. defense cooperation a new era cooperative partnership in the future that is and make that evident to the entire world. part of a larger balance of forces working to- And also, we are trying to establish smooth ward security, open trade, genuine respect cooperation and promote cooperation be- for borders not only of the parties to any tween Japan and the United States vis-a-vis agreement but of any other parties in the various and new and unexpected cir- neighborhood, I think that’s a positive thing. cumstances that were not considered in the If you look at, for example, the extent to past. which the politics of India have been dic- When the review process is completed, tated, partly by the tensions between Russia what sort of response will be needed domes- and China in the past, and how important tically—what sort of laws might become nec- India is—soon to become the largest country essary domestically? That is a matter I would in the world; already with the largest middle not like to make any presumptions about. But class in the world—and how important our security is a matter that—or this is a matter relationships with India will be, and then that touches on the fundamental security of with Pakistan, there is so much of what goes

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on between Russia and China that affects our ing my response, I would like to ask the relations, not only directly but indirectly, that President to supplement. I think it’s a very positive thing that they’re First, at the present stage, I believe that talking and working together. the U.S. forces that are deployed in the Asia- And again I will say, as long as they are Pacific, including those stationed in Japan, not making an agreement that is designed we have no intention of asking for the reduc- to somehow undermine the security or the tion of these forces. In maintaining the stabil- prosperity or the integrity and freedom of ity and safety of the entire region, we very any of their neighbors, I think it is a positive much cherish the present commitment that thing. And I look forward to having the same we have, and this is a matter of great impor- sort of constructive relations with both par- tance for the President in terms of maintain- ties, and I think that the Prime Minister does ing security as well. as well. Now, I need not tell you that there are Q. Do you know that’s true, or do you—— many spots of instability and uncertainties in President Clinton. No I don’t know. But the Asia-Pacific today. Now, if the U.S. forces I don’t know that it isn’t, either. I have no in the Asia-Pacific, not just stationed in Oki- reason to believe it’s not, and I don’t think nawa, are to be reduced, then we’d very we should approach these things with para- much like to, in fact, create an Asia-Pacific noia. We have no basis on which to conclude region that can allow that reduction, discuss- that there is some negative connotation to ing that possibility with smiles. And to that the fact that the Russians and the Chinese end, we’d like to cooperate with each other. are trying to get along. In the periods when Now, as I have mentioned earlier, there they didn’t get along, it was more difficult is no doubt that we are causing burdens on for both of them. the Okinawan people, and in order to reduce Prime Minister Hashimoto. Well, a very those burdens, we would like to say that the good, model answer has already been pro- first step is to steadily realize the rec- vided, so if there is anything that I could add ommendations of the SACO final report. to this exemplary response: Well, countries Thanks to all the efforts, the live fire drills that have adjacent borders between those across the prefectural Route 104 will be relo- countries, it is better that cooperation and cated. And the KC-130 aircraft now will be harmony continue, rather than confrontation. relocated to Iwakuna Base on Honshu Island. That will be in the benefit of the human soci- President Clinton. The only thing that I ety as a whole. Should there be any prob- could add to what the Prime Minister has lems, then of course, the two countries con- already said is just to reaffirm my strong sup- cerned should cooperate with each other so port for the SACO process. The United that the situation or any problem that has States is very aware that our presence, while arisen will proceed in a better direction. That it has enhanced the security of our country is my view. and Japan and the stability of the Asia-Pacific Q. I’d like to ask this question of both the region, has imposed burdens on the people Prime Minister and President. of Okinawa. We have been very sensitive to Mr. Prime Minister, you mentioned earlier it. Since I have been President, I have done that—[inaudible]—reaffirmation of the joint what I could to change that. We now have declaration that you will be cooperating with a SACO final report and a process underway each other with regard to North Korea—[in- which will lead to significant changes de- audible]. When do you think the reduction signed to reduce the burden on the people of U.S. marines stationed in Okinawa will be- of Okinawa while permitting us to do what come possible, whether that is difficult, and we need to do together to maintain stability in the shorter-term, is it possible to relocate in the region. U.S. military drills from Okinawa to other And I’d like to let that process play itself parts of Japan as a short-term measure to out. I think that you will see we are proceed- reduce the burden on the Okinawan people? ing in good faith, and we will work hard to Prime Minister Hashimoto. Well, I think make that process end in a success for the I should start off first on this point. So follow- people of Okinawa.

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Wolf [Wolf Blitzer, Cable News Network] tempting to do that with the Japanese poli- and then—— tics. And we certainly have no intention of imposing our own views on the Chinese. FBI and Alleged Chinese Efforts To Well, this year, as I said, happens to be the Influence the 1996 Election 25th anniversary of normalization of diplo- Q. Mr. President, Prime Minister matic relations, so it was with this mindset Hashimoto made the case for the United that we would like to make this year a fruitful States and for Japan to maintain stronger re- year in terms of Japan-China relations. lations with China. But now there is appar- President Clinton. I’d like to answer the ently some evidence that the FBI has that questions, if I might, in reverse order, and top Chinese officials were trying to influence as carefully as I can. the U.S. political process. The question for First of all, I believe that the President you, Prime Minister Hashimoto, would be, and Secretary of State and the National Secu- if you had evidence that China was trying rity Adviser should have access to whatever to influence politics in Japan, would that af- information is necessary to conduct the for- fect your relationship with China? eign policy and to protect the national inter- And to you, Mr. President, are you con- est of the country. fident that what the FBI briefed members Secondly, especially in light of some of the of the Senate Intelligence Committee, that allegations which have been made, I have that information is being made available to made it clear that to resolve all questions, you and to your senior national security ad- I expect every piece of information the Jus- visers? Prime Minister Hashimoto. Well, I can’t tice Department gives me to be shared with say anything about the U.S.-related part, but the Congress. I not only do not object to it, speaking of Japan and China relations, the but I expect it to be done. That will be reas- latter half of last year, due to my own mis- suring to everybody who’s covering other sto- management as well, the Japan-China rela- ries, and I think it’s important. tions since then have been somewhat awk- Now, in response to your question, I do ward. But in the run-up to the APEC summit not know the answer to that because I don’t meeting on Manila, I had meetings with Mr. know precisely what the briefing was. But Jiang Zemin, and we were able to more or my policy is clear. And we have received less resolve the problem. And the Japanese some information from the Justice Depart- Foreign Minister has visited Beijing since ment. Whether we have received everything and most likely I will be visiting China later they have, I have no way of knowing because this year, in the fall. And following that, I I don’t know what they got. But whatever— think that Mr. Li Peng, the Chinese Premier, the important thing for me, for you to know, will visit Japan. And we are also inviting Mr. and for the American people to know is that Jiang Zemin to visit Japan. as long as these questions are out there, I So through this process we, on both sides, also expect anything that I am given to con- Japan and China, we’re trying to further im- duct the foreign policy of the country should prove our bilateral relations. be shared with the Intelligence Committees What I couldn’t quite get from your ques- of the Congress so you’ll know that it is tion was, I think you said, are the Chinese shared in that way. leaders attempting to exercise influence on Now, to go to the second point, I have Japanese politics? Well—— said before, and I will just simply reiterate Q. If the Chinese Government, were at- what I have said before: If there was any im- tempting to influence politics in Japan, would proper attempt to influence the workings of that affect your relationship with China? the United States executive or legislative Prime Minister Hashimoto. If the Chi- branches, obviously that would be a matter nese Government, in fact, does behave that of serious concern. But I think it is important way and if the Japanese are pliable, then, of that we not accuse people of something that course, that end result will happen. But I we don’t know for sure that they have done, don’t think that the Chinese leaders are at- number one.

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Number two, let’s keep in mind—and I situation that many worry it to be in. In fact, would encourage all of you to think about in fiscal ’96, its growth rate is certain to reach this yourselves—think about what you would 2.5 percent per annum. define as improper influence. A lot of our Of course, the discontinuation of the spe- friends in the world, countries with whom cial tax cut measures at the end of last fiscal we are very closely allied, have friends in the year would have some negative effects. And United States that advocate for the policies yet, we would expect a 1.9 percent real eco- of the governments all the time. nomic growth rate for fiscal ’97. And I also It’s true—to take two obvious examples— communicated to the President that it is with it’s true of Israel; it’s true of Greece. And confidence that we expect Japan’s economy it’s not—I would not consider that improper. will grow with the strength of domestic de- It’s publicly done. There’s nothing secret or mand. covert about it; we know that it’s done. It’s Of course, strong imbalances are not good, part of the political debate in America, and but we’ve indicated that we are concerned we don’t take offense at it. about this. And as far as the exchange rate So we have to—but if there were some question is concerned, we believe that having improper attempt to influence this Govern- touched on this matter between ourselves, ment, would it affect our relations? Of it is more proper to leave the matter to Sec- course, it’s something we’d have to take seri- retary Rubin and Minister Mitsuzuka. ously. But meanwhile, we have very large in- terests in a stable relationship with China and Budget Agreement having China be a stable force in the Asia- Q. Mr. President, some of your top advis- Pacific region, just as Japan does. And so I ers clearly believe that next week is a crucial think it is important that we not assume one in the budget talks. Some of them have something we do not know and act in a way suggested that it might be a make-or-break- that may not be warranted. We need to get it week as far as getting a balanced budget. the facts here before we do that. Number one, do you share that belief? Num- ber two, if so, why? And number three, is Japan-U.S. Economic Relations there anything that you can hold onto, con- Q. In your meeting, I believe you dis- crete, that says yes, we might get a balanced cussed bilateral economic relations, and I budget this year? think you agreed that both would hope there President Clinton. Well, first of all, I was would not be any significant increase in Ja- heartened by the process by which we pan’s surplus. More specifically, did you dis- reached agreement on the chemical weapons cuss what measures ought to be taken in treaty because it really was a process with order to avoid such a significant increase? a lot of integrity. It was very specific, very Also, in the coming days, there will be the problem oriented—problem-solving ori- finance ministers meeting of the two coun- ented, and it resulted, as you know, in getting tries, and there will be G–7 finance ministers a majority of both caucuses in the Senate to meetings, and I think the markets are very vote for the treaty. And that’s an indication much interested about the developments on of what we can do if we put the country first. the exchange front. I wonder if you had any Secondly, as I have said before, we have discussions on that aspect as well. had some days now of quite intense talks be- Prime Minister Hashimoto. Well, let me tween the Republican and Democratic budg- first say that what we discussed today was et leaders of the Senate and House. And they that we would not like to see any significant have worked, I’m convinced, with us in com- increase in Japan’s external surplus, and plete good faith. You know what the dif- we’re not assuming a situation where there ferences are; they’re clear. We want a bal- will be absolutely no increase in Japan’s sur- anced budget that protects what we think are plus. the most important values and interests of Now, it is true that we discussed this ques- the country, including investing more in edu- tion, and I also tried to explain that the Japa- cation, expanding coverage to children for nese economic situation is not at all like the health care, protecting the environment,

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cleaning up 500 toxic waste dumps, continu- better off having agreed to freeze their nu- ing to invest in technology and things of that clear program and getting an alternative kind. They would favor more cuts in those source of energy. And I think they ought to programs and bigger tax cuts. We have dif- go the next step now and resolve all their ferences between us. differences with South Korea in a way that Now, can we bridge the differences? If we will permit the rest of us not only to give proceed just as we did with the Chemical food aid and emergency food aid because Weapons Convention, in the same sort of people are terribly hungry but to work with way, I’m convinced we can. Do I favor an them in restructuring their entire economy early agreement? Yes, I do, if it’s a good one and helping to make it more functional again and if it protects those things that I care and giving a brighter and better future to about. Do I believe that there will be no bal- the people of North Korea. anced budget this year if the early agree- So from my point of view, both because ments cannot be realized? No, I don’t believe of the security problems inherent in the ten- that. sion of the two armies facing each other I think it is so manifestly in the interest across the 17th parallel and because of the of the United States to do this—it would be capacity of North Korea to produce missiles so good for our economy; it would keep inter- and other kinds of mischief and because est rates down; it would keep job growth there are a lot of people living in North going—that we will do it. Just that same rea- Korea who are in distress now, I would very son I believed when we didn’t have the votes much like to see these talks resume. on the Chemical Weapons Convention, even- And the Prime Minister and I talked about tually we’d find a way to do it because it was it in some detail, and we know that our inter- manifestly in the interests of the United ests would be advantaged if the talks could States to do it. be brought to a successful conclusion. And And we want to keep this long expansion I would urge the North Koreans to recon- going. We want to keep these jobs coming sider and to enter the talks as soon as pos- into our country. We want to keep the higher sible. wage jobs being created. And if we want to We’ll take one more—[inaudible]. do that, we’re going to have to balance this budget. FDR Memorial Now, it would be better to do it earlier Q. Mr. President, how strongly do you feel rather than later, if both sides can agree in about having the new memorial to Franklin good conscience. It will be more difficult to Roosevelt give prominent attention to his dis- do—when you fail, it’s harder to kind of pick ability? The reason I ask the question is some yourself up and try again. But I still believe of the disabled groups fear, because of the it will get done sometime this year if we don’t congressional politics on the issue, the legis- get it done now. But I favor an early agree- lation going forward now will not contain an ment, if possible. ironclad guarantee of such a display. If it did not, would that be a violation of your com- Korean Peninsula mitment to them? Q. Mr. President, the Korean Peninsula President Clinton. I can’t give you an is vital to U.S. interest in Northeast Asia. honest answer to that because—I mean, a What is the U.S. position for establishing a good answer because I never thought about peaceful regime on the Korean Peninsula? it in those terms before. I never thought President Clinton. Well, first of all, we about it as a legislative fight or making a deal had hoped very much that the North Koreans with the groups. As far as I know—I’ve got- would follow up on their agreement in prin- ten some letters on this—I don’t think any- ciple to the four-party talks and actually one is coming to see me about it. I just have come to New York and participate in the always felt—I’ll tell you why I feel this way, talks. It was a big disappointment to me when that there should be constructed at an appro- they did not come, because I think it is clear- priate time a statue of—a sculpture of Presi- ly in their interests. And they, I think, are dent Roosevelt in his wheelchair.

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The genius of Roosevelt was that he had President Clinton. No. No, actually, a flexible, imaginative mind that permitted Sarah [Sarah McClendon, McClendon News us to preserve our fundamental values and Service], I put myself at greater risk giving principles and systems under great assault. up the wheelchair. The reason I went to Hel- And he knew that in the time he lived he sinki in the wheelchair is so I wouldn’t—be- would have had great difficulty getting elect- cause I was new on my crutches. But this ed President if people had thought of him is better for my therapy. And I went to Hel- as a ‘‘polio’’ or a ‘‘cripple,’’ to use the words sinki—because they didn’t want me to go at that were prevalent in the early thirties. And all, and I said I was determined to go, and so he went to these enormous lengths to con- they said the only safe way to go was to go struct this deception. You know, he had two in a wheelchair. But I don’t think I did give strong people who would carry him up stairs it up too early. with his elbows held straight to pretend that Q. The White House corridors are so long; he was walking up the stairs. And to a movie you have to walk so far. camera from a distance, it looked as if he President Clinton. I’m building up my was. He did all kinds of other things to create arm strength. this deception. Why? Because he knew it was Let’s take one more question. Would you necessary at the time. He knew that he had like to take one more question, and then I’ll the capacity to be President, and he didn’t take Mr. Donvan [John Donvan, ABC News] want some artificial perception to keep him and Bill [Bill Plante, CBS News]. Go ahead. from being President. We’re having a good time. [Laughter] However, if he were alive today, my belief is just as strong that he would insist on being North Korea shown in his wheelchair because he would see all the progress we have made in the last Q. On food aid, during the flight to Wash- 65 years on this issue—more than 65 years— ington, DC, Mr. Prime Minister, I think you and he would insist that we keep making expressed a view that as Governor of Japan progress. He would want this to be a living you wished to maintain a very careful atti- memorial, if you will, that would be part of tude, cautious attitude. I wonder how you America’s thrust into the future, not just a explain Japan’s position to the President, and musing on the past. That’s what I believe. I wonder if the President understood Japan’s And I’ve read a lot about Roosevelt. Some- position. times I feel like I’m talking to him instead Prime Minister Hashimoto. Yesterday, of Hillary talking to Eleanor. [Laughter] during the flight, I met with the press report- That’s what I honestly believe. And I know ers traveling with me, and I touched on this even some of his family members differ with question. We certainly are aware of the situa- me, so I’m very respectful of people who tion in North Korea that requires humani- have a different opinion than me about this. tarian food aid. At the same time, if we speak But I have thought about this a lot, and I of humanitarian circumstances, there are cer- believe if he were here he would say, ‘‘Look tain things we would like the North Koreans at what we have done. Look at how we have to do for us. And one of them relates to Japa- changed attitudes toward disabilities. Look at nese nationals, Japanese women who got all the doors we’re trying to open for people married to North Koreans. And those people with disabilities. For God’s sake, tell every- who went to North Korea have not been able body I did this and I was disabled, so that to send letters to Japan, whereas North Kore- all those disabled kids can know they can ans visiting Japan could always go back and grow up to be President, too, now, and they forth between Japan and North Korea. These don’t have to hide it like I did.’’ Japanese women who married North Kore- ans have not even been allowed to return to their families for temporary visits. So, President Clinton’s Knee Injury speaking of humanitarian issues, we would Q. But didn’t you give up your wheelchair like the North Koreans to allow these Japa- too early? [Laughter] nese women, Japanese wives, to write letters

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back home or pay temporary visits to their starving and from dealing with malnutrition. families in Japan. But they need to lift the burden of a system And also, according to information that we that is failing them in food and other ways have gleaned, several mysterious incidents off their back, resolve their differences with took place, one after another, in a rather lim- the South. That will permit them the free- ited time period. Some of them junior high dom to reconcile the problems they have still school students, or lovers—these people sud- with Japan. denly disappeared from Japanese shores. So what I think is so important—again I And North Korean spies who later have con- say, I implore the North Koreans to return fessed in South Korea, and it is so reported, to the talks. We have set these talks up, these that they have said these people were ab- four-party talks, with the Chinese, the people ducted. So there is a high possibility that who were involved in the armistice at the these Japanese who disappeared from Japa- end of the Korean war. We have given them nese shore were abducted by the North Ko- every opportunity to come with honor and reans. And probably, there is no doubt about to be treated with fairness. And it is time that. And yet, we cannot really determine to bring this long divide to an end, as well that is the case. But we have to remember as to alleviate the misery of so many of their that these people have disappeared in a mys- people. terious manner. Get Bill, then John. Go ahead. In the process of Japan-North Korea nor- malization talks, we discussed the problem China and Campaign Finance Reform of Nai Unya, who was originally a Japanese. Q. Mr. President, following up on your an- But we raised the issue of having the person swer about China, you seem to be suggesting recognized and returned to Japan. As soon almost that China’s mistake may have been as we raised the issue, the talks were discon- that it didn’t approach advocacy in the Amer- tinued. ican system in the American way, which is So we understand it is a humanitarian situ- to say, by hiring a high-powered lobbying ation in North Korea, but likewise, if we are firm here in Washington to do its advocacy to speak of humanitarian problems, there are work rather than possibly trying these back humanitarian problems in Japan as well. channels. There are, as I said, Japanese women who And I also wanted to ask about campaign are married to North Koreans, and they sure- finance reform, and that is, how in the world ly wish to write to their families in Japan. do you expect to persuade very many of the They surely wish to visit their families back people who were elected under the old sys- home. And we hope they, the North Koreans, tem to ever give it up? Isn’t this kind of a will give humanitarian considerations to chimera? these people. President Clinton. Well, let me answer So these are, in fact, what I explained to the second question first, and then I’ll answer President Clinton as well. the first question. President Clinton. Let me say, I person- I think that the only way I can persuade ally am very grateful for the Prime Minister’s them to give it up is to believe that they— support and for Japan’s support for the pro- if they’re on equal terms with their oppo- gram to end the North Korean nuclear ef- nents, to have the confidence that since forts, to freeze it and dismantle it, and for they’re already in, if they’re serving well and Japan’s generosity in so many areas around doing a good job, they should be able to per- the world where Japan spends a higher per- suade a majority of the people to reelect centage of its income than the United States them. And I would never support any kind on humanitarian efforts. of campaign reform that did not at least guar- We have devoted a significant amount of antee some sort of equal footing to the com- money and have pledged more to feed the petitors. people of North Korea. But the real answer Now, I know what you’re saying. You’re here is, we can—the world will find a way saying, once you get in, you can normally to keep the people of North Korea from raise more money than your competitor. But

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the only way we can do it—let me tell you, Prime Minister Peres or former Prime Min- the only way we can do it, since you have ister Rabin, no one thinks anything is wrong a lot of people from rural States who cannot with it because it’s the way things are. That’s raise what it costs to campaign, all of the the only point I was trying to make, that we money, in their own States—we have a lot have a multiethnic society where people have of people from poor congressional districts different ties, different contacts, different who can’t do that, and then you have people feelings. And some of it we’re comfortable who just because—as I said, this is a harder with because we understand it. Other things sell for the Republicans than the Democrats we’re uncomfortable with because it’s new because they could raise more money, and and different and jarring. And before we ac- now that they’re in the majority in Congress, cuse people of wrongdoing, we at least need they can raise a lot more money. So let’s be to know what are the facts. The only point fair to them. It’s harder for them to buy this I’m trying to make, the bottom line and sig- than it is for us. nificant point I’m trying to make is, I do not But one reason they ought to do it is, it know what the facts are here, and I do not takes too much of their time, and it raises want to condemn without the evidence. too many questions. And they would get Let’s take one more from each side. You more sleep at night; they would have more want to take one more? And then John, time to read; they would have more time to we’ll—and then Karen [Karen Breslau, spend with their families; they would have Newsweek]. more time to do the job of being in Congress. They could also spend time with people they Strength of the Dollar and Trade know who have money and influence and not Q. I have a question for President Clinton. be asked if they were spending it for the I understand that the United States is in favor wrong reasons, and they could actually solicit of a strong balance, and at the same time people’s opinion without somebody worrying the United States doesn’t want any kind of about whether they had actually purchased increase in U.S. trade deficit with Japan. I a Congressman’s vote on something. think that the strong dollar—[inaudible]—Ja- So, for all these reasons, I think that, be- pan’s exports to the United States, thus, an sides the fact that it’s right for America, I increase in U.S. trade deficit with Japan. Do think they ought to do it. you want a weaker dollar to help cut—to help Now, let me answer your first question. prevent U.S. trade deficit to Japan from in- I do not know the facts. That’s the only thing creasing significantly? I’m saying. I just don’t want to see people President Clinton. You have asked an ex- tried and convicted before we know the facts. cellent question and one to which I must give I don’t know the facts. But I didn’t just mean a careful answer; otherwise I will affect the having lobbyists. What I mean is, we’re com- value of the dollar, which I don’t want to fortable in America. If an Irish-American do. friend of mine from Boston says to me before Here is our position. We do not want a we got involved in the Irish peace talks, ‘‘I weak dollar simply to improve our trade posi- think it’s time that America changed their tion. We think that would be—that is not policy and got involved in this and tried to our economic policy, to go out and seek a bring peace and harmony in Northern Ire- weak dollar. We want our dollar to be healthy land,’’ and that Irish-American has direct and strong because we have a good, strong contacts with people in the Government in economy and good economic policies. the Republic in Ireland and people in the But neither do we want any other actions Parliament in Northern Ireland, no one to have the effect of throwing the exchange thinks that it’s inappropriate because it’s a rate system out of whack in order to gain comfortable, open part of the way we are as undue advantage in international trade. So Americans. what we would like to see is, and what we If a Jewish-American friend of mine hap- have campaigned for—what I have person- pens to also be a friend of Prime Minister ally campaigned around the world for 4 years Netanyahu or Prime Minister Peres—former are good, coordinated, balanced economic

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policies among all the strong economies of Japanese Deregulation the world, and a commitment among all of Q. Mr. President, you mentioned—[in- us to expand into a global trading system that audible]—are you confident that will give other countries the chance to grow Hashimoto’s package of deregulation will be wealthier on responsible terms. That is what strong enough and timely enough to sustain I think is the best policy over the long run. growth in Japan without any kind of help John. And then I’ll take one from Karen. from the fiscal side? President Clinton. Well, I hope so. He’s Tobacco Regulations Ruling confident that it will be. And you know, he has to make the call. But we had a very good Q. Mr. President, a followup to today’s and, I thought, pretty sophisticated conversa- news. You have said, in regard to the talks tion about it today. I understand why Japan the tobacco companies are involved in for also wishes to cut its deficit, increase its sav- a possible global solution, that your goal ings rate. And I understand—we have similar would be a solution that protects the health long-term demographic challenges in Japan of children. My question is, does today’s and the United States. You will face them news not put the tobacco companies more before we will. And I understand that. But on the run than ever before, at least more it’s also important to keep our systems open, on the defensive? And does that not in some to keep opening them up and to not let the way weaken their hand in these negotiations trade balance get out of whack. And we’re and make the outcome you’re looking for all committed to working on it. And I think we’ll the more likely? be reasonably successful if we work at it. President Clinton. Well, I certainly hope Go ahead. it makes the outcome I’m looking for all the Press Secretary Mike McCurry. Last more likely. Of course, just as we intend to question. appeal the advertising portion of the decision President Clinton. All right. in North Carolina, I’m doubtless they will ap- Press Secretary McCurry. The Prime peal the other portion of it. So we’ve got Minister has to go—— some time to go, and we’ll have some other President Clinton. I know. legal steps to go through. But I hope this Initiative on Race Relations will strengthen the hands of the public health Q. Mr. President, your aides have said that advocates. in coming weeks you plan to announce a The only point I was trying to make earlier, major initiative on the state of race relations John, is I simply do not know. I’m not the in this country. Why now? And what do you house expert here, and I don’t know that we expect a blue ribbon panel or commission even have an expert in-house about where or task force, whatever you decide, to the right balance is in these negotiations with produce in terms of tangible results that will the public health at large. We originally make a difference in people’s lives? began to monitor the negotiations with a very President Clinton. Well, first of all, let limited purpose, to ferociously protect what me say, I have not yet settled on a final form we had fought so hard for to get the FDA of an initiative. But what I think we need to do. But we know there is a larger public to do is to examine the nature of our relations health interest here. And I hope that today’s with one another as Americans and what decision enhances the likelihood that the America is going to be like in this new cen- public health of the United States can be ad- tury. I think it is time for a taking of stock. vanced, not only for children but for our We’ve been through some huge upheavals country as a whole. over race in America. We fought a civil war Let’s take one more. We’re having a good over slavery and race, and then we had a se- time, let’s do one more. [Laughter] Karen, ries of constitutional amendments that gave you’re next. Otherwise I’ll get blasted for basic citizenship rights to African-Americans. having all men I called on today—properly Then we had a long civil rights struggle which blasted, properly blasted. was marked by steady, explicit forbidding of

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various kinds of discrimination. And then we Memorandum on Use of Funds for had the Kerner Commission report in ’68, the U.S. Contribution to the Korean which basically said, even if you eliminate all Peninsula Energy Development these negative things, there are certain af- Organization firmative things you have to do to get people April 24, 1997 back to the starting line so they can contrib- ute to our society. And then we had 25 years Presidential Determination No. 97–21 of affirmative action which is being rethought now, reassessed, and argued all over again. Memorandum for the Secretary of State But America has changed a great deal dur- Subject: Use of Nonproliferation, Anti- ing that time. The fastest growing minority Terrorism, Demining and Related Programs group now are the Hispanics. There are four Account Funds for the U.S. Contribution to school districts in this country, including one the Korean Peninsula Energy Development right across the river here in Virginia, that Organization (KEDO) have children from more than 100 different racial and ethnic groups in one single school Pursuant to the authority vested in my by district. And I personally rejoice at this. I section 614(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance think this is a huge asset for the United States Act of 1961, as amended, 22 U.S.C. as we go into the 21st century, if we learn 2364(a)(1), I hereby determine that it is im- how to avoid the racial and ethnic and reli- portant to the security interests of the United gious pitfalls that are bedeviling the rest of States to furnish up to $25 million in funds the world today. made available under heading ‘‘Nonprolifera- So that’s what I want to do. I want to take tion, Anti-Terrorism, Demining and Related stock, see where we are, and see how we Programs’’ in title II of the Foreign Oper- can get into the 21st century as one America, ations, Export Financing, and Related Pro- respecting our diversity but coming closer to- grams Appropriations Act, 1997 (as enacted gether. I think—by the way, I think this sum- in Public Law 104–208) for the United States mit of service will have a lot to do with mak- contribution to the Korean Peninsula Energy ing it better. Development Organization without regard to any provision of law within the scope of sec- But I’m making the final policy decisions, tion 614(a)(1). I hereby authorize this con- and I’ll have some announcement to make tribution. before too long. You are hereby authorized and directed to Thank you very much. Thank you, Mr. transmit this determination to the Congress Prime Minister. and to arrange for its publication in the Fed- eral Register. NOTE: The President’s 142d news conference William J. Clinton began at 2:36 p.m. in the East Room at the White House. Prime Minister Hashimoto spoke in Japa- NOTE: This memorandum was released by the Of- nese, and his remarks were translated by an inter- fice of the Press Secretary on April 26. preter. During the news conference, the following persons were referred to: Vice Minister for Politi- cal Affairs Komura Nasahiko and Finance Min- The President’s Radio Address ister Hiroshi Mitsuzuka of Japan; and President April 26, 1997 Jiang Zemin and Premier Li Peng of China. Prime Minister Hashimoto also referred to the Special Good morning. Tomorrow I will be in Action Committee on Okinawa (SACO). This item Philadelphia at the Summit for America’s Fu- was not received in time for publication in the ture. Together with Presidents Bush, Carter, appropriate issue. and Ford, and General Colin Powell, I will

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issue a call to citizen service to all Americans. for the children of Simpson County. That’s For 3 days we’ll explore how we can all play what our America Reads challenge is all a role in helping America’s young people about. It’s spearheaded by our Secretary of build a better future and, just as important, Education, Dick Riley, and Carol Rasco, my how all our young people can help to build former Domestic Policy Adviser here in the a better America. White House. The America Reads challenge This is the right time to enlist in America. marshals the resources of entire commu- We’re on the verge of a new century filled nities, schools and libraries, religious institu- with promise and challenge. But to make the tions, universities, college students and sen- most of it, we must ensure that all our peo- ior citizens, all working together with teach- ple, and especially all our children, have the ers and parents to teach our children to read. opportunity to reach their highest potential. We need America Reads, and we need it And we must understand that we can do that now. Studies show that students who fail to only if we all join hands, reaching across the read well by the fourth grade are more likely lines that divide us, to build one America to- to drop out of school and less likely to suc- gether. That’s an enormous job, but it’s a job ceed in life. But 40 percent of our fourth we’ll have to do if we really want to prepare graders still can’t read at a basic level. We our country for the 21st century. can, and we must, do better than this. Citizen service is neighbor helping neigh- With me today are AmeriCorps members, bor. It’s part-time volunteers and full-time tutors, and parents from four different orga- community service workers. It’s communities nizations who are helping to make a real dif- coming together to solve common problems. ference in our children’s lives: First, the And it is an essential part of what it means Home Instruction Program for Preschool to be an American. We all have to promote Youngsters, or HIPPY, an early learning pro- it. gram involving parents and children; second, That’s why I was so proud to launch our Hands On Atlanta, from Georgia; then, AmeriCorps program 4 years ago. Since then, Reading One on One from Texas; and Or- 50,000 young people have taken a year or egon’s SMART. All help to recruit volunteers two to work full-time, mobilizing hundreds and teach our children to read. Together of other volunteers, helping the old and the these groups reach thousands of children young, the environment, helping commu- every year. America Reads will help them nities afflicted with disaster, as I saw in North and others to reach millions more. Dakota just a couple of days ago. And in the This Monday I will send my America process, they also earn some money for col- Reads legislation to the Congress so that we lege tuition, as they give back to their coun- can mobilize the citizen army of one million try. America Reads tutors I called for in my State But one of the important ways our of the Union Address, to make sure that AmeriCorps volunteers have found to give every 8-year-old child in America can pick back is to help our children learn to read. up a book and say, ‘‘I can read this all by Their success has been remarkable. To give myself.’’ This legislation is part of my bal- just one example, 25 young AmeriCorps anced budget. It will fund 25,000 reading members went to work in Simpson County, specialists and tutor coordinators, including Kentucky, where second graders’ reading 11,000 AmeriCorps members and many oth- scores were disturbingly low. With the help ers. They will recruit and train our America of AmeriCorps volunteers, second graders all Reads citizen army, bringing reading help to across that county jumped three full reading the 3 million children who need it the most. levels in just one year. The AmeriCorps vol- It will also help parents to instill a lifelong unteers made all the difference in those stu- learning of reading in children. Parents are dents’ lives, and the service changed the lives our children’s first teachers, and we have to of the AmeriCorps volunteers. do everything we can to make their jobs easi- We know that intensive tutoring like this er. Community groups like HIPPY, which works. Now we have to do for all America’s Hillary and I worked hard to bring to Arkan- children what the AmeriCorps volunteers did sas, are doing exactly that. The plan I’m send-

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ing to Congress will expand their ability to wrote you. [Laughter] Just like every other reach more families. My balanced budget journalist, make all my memos public. also increases Head Start funding, to reach [Laughter] To Larry McQuillan, Arlene Dil- one million 3- and 4-year-olds, and expands lon, Jon Stewart, who will make us glad we title I to aid teaching and learning in class- came in a few moments, to all the distin- rooms and the Even Start Family Literacy guished head table guests, and ladies and Program. gentlemen. But it will take more than money to make I tried to fulfill Terry Hunt’s agenda as sure that all our children can read. It will President. Those are real notes I wrote him. take a commitment from our entire commu- And I will try to fulfill Larry’s agenda. I think nity. That’s why I’m pleased to announce that it’s terrible the conditions in which the White as part of the service summit, many of our House press corps labor. It really is. It re- major corporations and nonprofit organiza- minds me of Nurse Ratchet’s office in ‘‘One tions will help us to recruit tens of thousands Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.’’ [Laughter] of additional tutors for America Reads. One And it’s really a tribute to the futility of a hundred sixty-six colleges all across America politician pandering to the press, because already have answered the challenge I issued that used to be an indoor swimming pool that in December and pledged thousands of their brought joy to FDR and JFK and Presidents students to be reading tutors. I thank them in between. Richard Nixon gave it to you. for their support. [Laughter] And he got such good press in Last summer in Wyandotte, Michigan, return. [Laughter] Maybe this is his final re- when I announced the America Reads pro- venge, the miserable conditions of it. We gram, I sat with two young children and read could uncover it, but let you keep it. [Laugh- ‘‘The Little Engine That Could,’’ a book that ter] I could build a cabana. Well, you think has taught countless children that they can about it. do anything they think they can. I want every Before I get into my jokes, I have some child in America to know that he or she can important, serious news. [Laughter] Senator read. And America Reads will make sure that Lott and I have broken the gridlock over the all those children can. budget. A deal now appears imminent. Mi- I hope some of you who are listening will raculously, the $56 billion—[applause]— consider being part of America Reads. After thank you—the $56 billion gap that has sepa- all, we need a million citizen servants, and rated Democrats and Republicans has been we’re not there yet. If you’re interested, call bridged. And ladies and gentlemen, we owe 1–800–USA–Learn, the Department of Edu- Senator Dole a huge debt of gratitude. cation’s hotline, or just contact your local ele- [Laughter] And the best part is, we don’t mentary school or library. have to start paying it back until 2005. All of us can help. All you really need to [Laughter] And that’s outside the budget do is roll up your sleeves, sit with a child, window. Bigger tax cuts, more money for the and open a book together. And remember, Justice Department, whatever—just sign up, you’ll be doing more than just reading, you’ll you can have it. [Laughter] You know, if I be writing an exciting new chapter in Ameri- had known Bob Dole was that generous, I’d ca’s progress. have invited him over for coffee. [Laughter] Thanks for listening. I want to congratulate awardees tonight: Byron Acohido who has come from so far NOTE: The President spoke at 10:06 a.m. from the Oval Office at the White House. away and did such good work; and then there are the local winners, Ron Fournier, Mara Liasson, Todd Purdum. Of course, I’m not Remarks at the White House familiar with any of your work, but I’m sure Correspondents’ Association Dinner it’s very good. But this Purdum guy’s name April 26, 1997 sounds familiar. Purdum, Purdum—I think I read it in the engagement announcements Thank you very much. Mr. Hunt, thank recently. Hillary and I congratulate Todd and you so much for reading the notes that I Dee Dee on their marriage next month.

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You know, Dee Dee and I started together mannequins mouthing contentious blather. on a little plane in New Hampshire, and we No wait, that’s the McLaughlin Group. made it all the way to the White House. Then [Laughter] she sort of strayed over to your side for a There is also an absolutely amazing collec- while, and I was kind of disappointed. Now tion of historical artifacts: C–SPAN’s gavel- she’s getting on a 747 and going to Beverly to-gavel etchings of the Constitutional Con- Hills. They grow up so fast, don’t they? vention; CNN’s very first ‘‘Crossfire’’, from [Laughter] the left Alexander Hamilton, from the right Oh, I got another serious thing I want to Aaron Burr, topic: gun control. [Laughter] talk about. Something that I know—really, There is an actual press corps travel manifest you all are on me about all the time. Many from Stage Coach One. Guess what, the film of you are distressed that you’re not notified they showed was ‘‘Fargo’’. [Laughter] The 30 in a timely fashion about breaking news, like people in the White House press corps are my knee breaking. And that’s valid, and I’ve laughing at that. [Laughter] been doing some work to make sure it never There are artifacts of contemporary Wash- happens again. In fact, in the spirit of re- ington journalism as well. There is the stack inventing Government that the Vice Presi- of Bibles upon which Joe Klein swore. dent has so indoctrinated me with, starting [Laughter] There is Johnny Apple’s expense tonight we have decided to give you advance reports, a transcript of Ann Rice’s interview notice of upcoming mishaps. [Laughter] with Bob Novak, the contract where Bob Mike McCurry has asked me to inform you Woodward insists on Robert Redford being of the following. While engaging in some vol- cast as him. [Laughter] There is a haunting unteer work tomorrow in Philadelphia, I will photograph from the 1961 White House Cor- be on the receiving end of a painful encoun- respondents’ dinner of young Brian Williams ter with a ball-peen hammer. [Laughter] And shaking hands adoringly with Chet Huntley. I will do my best to do it before your filing [Laughter] deadline at 5. On May 22d, I will be visiting And then there is a whole wing dedicated the home of Tiger Woods to celebrate his to historic scoops. For example, did you know recent victory in the Masters. Please be ad- that Helen Thomas broke the story about the vised: There is a loose brick on the patio. Lincoln Bedroom—while Lincoln was still [Laughter] On July 8, during the fifth inning sleeping in it. [Laughter] of the All Star game in Cleveland, I will at- However, the most important part of the tempt to catch a foul ball from Rafael museum is an exhibit which poses an utterly Palmeiro. Stay tuned. [Laughter] Look, Mark fascinating question, both contemporary and Knoller is running out to call his editor now. historical: How would current White House [Laughter] correspondents and columnists have covered I know we’re here to honor you tonight past Presidential administrations? Have you because of the work you do, but this dinner seen this? I mean, this is an incredible thing. is a pittance compared to the testament to In the exhibit, everyone in the current press your profession last week which opened its corps is making fun of Millard Fillmore’s doors, called the Newseum—the Newseum, name—that’s everyone except Wolf Blitzer. the Newseum. What really surprised me, for [Laughter] David Letterman keeps calling any event in Washington, this opening actu- William Howard Taft ‘‘Tubby’’ and Teddy ally got a lot of favorable press coverage. Roosevelt ‘‘Old Four Eyes.’’ [Laughter] [Laughter] Evidently, you journalists have a Maureen Dowd writes a column dismissing lot of friends in the media. [Laughter] the first Presidential election as politics as But there are a bunch of exhibits I’m dying usual. [Laughter] Sam Donaldson makes fun to see. I want to see the portrait gallery of of George Washington’s wooden teeth but unnamed sources—[laughter]—the Gergen completely ignores the obvious fact that he’s and Shields retrospective—[laughter]—the wearing a wig. [Laughter] The New York museum’s crown jewel, the hall of pundits. Times calls for a special counsel to look into [Laughter] Modeled after the Hall of Presi- George Washington’s winning campaign in dents at Disneyland, it features mechanized the Revolutionary War—because Lafayette

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was French. And Barbara Walters asks the the future, so I want you to just forget about Father of our Country, ‘‘If you could chop the documents. [Laughter] down a tree, any tree at all, what kind of Now, we know how important technology tree would it be?’’ [Laughter] is to our future, and the White House has All right, now we’re going to tell some stuff always been the center of new technological on us. I know you give me grief from time developments, ever since John Adams occu- to time, but really we work around the clock pied it. There was the electric lights, the tele- trying to help you do your job. I mean, really, phone, the telegraph, the tape recorder— what other administration would make thou- [laughter]—and the Clapper—[laughter]— sands and thousands of internal memos and and, most recently, the computer. official documents available for your daily en- Now, just last week the Vice President and joyment? [Laughter] I used a computer in the Oval Office. I felt But you did miss a couple of good stories. like a kid who first got to drive; he actually Roll it in, boys; come here. Where are they? let me do some things on it. [Laughter] And Where are my documents? [Laughter] Come it’s clear that we are once again at the thresh- here! I hope no one is in contempt for ignor- old of a new era that will forever change the ing these. This is just a representative sam- way Presidents conduct matters at home and ple. You’ll have them all tomorrow. [Laugh- abroad. As of this week, I have been working ter] around the clock trying to balance the budget with Quicken. [Laughter] And I want you to Here’s a memo from Harold Ickes to consider this. In the post-cold-war era, the Leona Panetta: ‘‘Leon, FYI, Maxwell House introduction of the computer has raised a coffee is on sale this week for $3.49 a pound.’’ profound question: Whose finger do you [Laughter] Here’s a copy of a check we mis- want on the control-alt-delete button? takenly thought was a small campaign con- [Laughter] tribution from AT&T. It turns out that by You know what my favorite button is? F2, cashing it, we authorized a switch in our long search and replace. [Laughter] I have en- distance service. [Laughter] Here’s a memo joyed the daily press clips so much more outlining the DNC’s high donor program. It’s since I discovered F2. [Laughter] I read pretty embarrassing—business class up- them on-line now, and then I search and re- grades for Air Force One. Mr. Speaker, it place. Thanks for showing me that, Al. I could have been you. [Laughter] And let’s mean, after all—look, your news reports are see, here’s one: For $10,000, you can have just the first rough draft of history anyway, a private meeting with Vice President Gore and I’m just doing the F2 thing to do a little to discuss reinventing Government. And for editing. Let’s take some of the news stories $20,000, you don’t have to go. [Laughter] you’ve written just in the last month: F2, And this is the most embarrassing one of all, search for ‘‘budget standstill’’; replace with from the White House visitor log last year. ‘‘prosperity at home and peace abroad.’’ I can’t believe any of you missed this. It [Laughter] It’s better, isn’t it? It is. Search seems that during the period of time when for ‘‘beleaguered’’; replace with ‘‘Lincoln- the First Lady was recording her Grammy esque.’’ [Laughter] Search for ‘‘independent Award winning album, Milli Vanilli came to counsel’’; replace with ‘‘the ice cream man.’’ the White House 32 times. [Laughter] [Laughter] Now, I don’t know how this got in here. I’ll never forget how I found out about this This is a letter of acceptance to Chelsea, say- incredible device, search and replace. I ing that she will—from Chelsea, saying that walked into the Vice President’s office not she will attend—no, that’s privileged. very long ago, and he was there working on [Laughter] But look, the bad news is, our his computer—F2, search for Bill Clinton— only child is going off to college. The good [laughter]—I got there just in time. news is, it opens up another bedroom. James Thurber said that humor is one of [Laughter] our greatest and earliest national resources But now look, you all know I want a bridge that has to be preserved at all cost. Well, to the future, not the past. I’m interested in I hope we’ve saved a little up tonight and

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enriched it. I thank you and come here to people who have made this possible and with honor your indispensable part in our lively all of you. I thank the people of Philadelphia 225-year-old experiment in democracy. May for being so good to me since 1992 and for we work together so that it continues to light being my friends and for giving me a chance and lead the world. to work with you to bring Philadelphia back. Tomorrow I’m going to Philadelphia, Thank you so much. I thank all your officials. where this great experiment began, to open I thank you wonderful Mayor. the Presidents’ Summit for America’s Fu- General Powell told me when he retired ture. We’ll gather there to renew the spirit from the United States Army as Chairman of service that built this country. Each of us of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that the one thing must serve; you in your way, me in mine. he wanted to do more than anything else was You can start right now—by busing your own to find a way to give every child in this coun- tables and helping with the dishes. [Laugh- try a chance at a good future, and I thank ter] Now, when Jon finishes, I’m going home. him for doing that. Thanks, and good night. [Laughter] I thank Colin and Alma. I thank George and Barbara Bush for their examples, Mrs. NOTE: The President spoke at approximately Bush with her literacy program, President 10:05 p.m. in the International Ballroom at the Bush for A Thousand Points of Light. I thank Washington Hilton Hotel. In his remarks, he re- President and Mrs. Carter for caring about ferred to White House Correspondents’ Associa- tion outgoing president Terence Hunt, Associated the children of this country, for the work Press, and incoming president Larry McQuillan, they’ve done with Habitat for Humanity and Reuters; Arlene Dillon, CBS News; comedian Jon for going all over the world to rid the children Stewart; Byron Acohido, Seattle Times; Ron of the world of dread diseases, to give them Fournier, Associated Press; Mara Liasson, Na- food to eat and a decent, humane place to tional Public Radio; Todd Purdum, New York grow up in. I thank all of you. Times; former Press Secretary Dee Dee Myers, But let’s face it—I want everybody to face Vanity Fair; Mark Knoller, CBS Radio; Joe Klein, it. Why are we here? We know that a lot author, ‘‘Primary Colors’’; Johnny Apple, New of us would be doing a lot of this anyway. York Times; author Ann Rice; syndicated col- There are a lot of wonderful volunteers in umnist Bob Novak; Bob Woodward, Washington Post; actor Robert Redford; Brian Williams, NBC America. Here’s why we’re here. This coun- News; Helen Thomas, United Press International; try has produced a lot of jobs in the last 4 Wolf Blitzer, Cable News Network; Sam Donald- years. The crime rate is going down; the wel- son and Barbara Walters, ABC News. fare rolls are going down. But we’re still los- ing too many kids to crime, to drugs, to not having a decent income in their home, and Remarks at the Kickoff of the to not having a bright future. And we’re here President’s Summit for America’s because we don’t think we have to put up Future in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with it, and we believe together we can April 27, 1997 change it. Isn’t that right? [Applause] I’m here because I want the young people The President. Thank you. Thank you out here to grow up in an America that is very much. Good morning! even greater than the America I grew up in. Audience members. Good morning! That is the eternal dream and promise, and The President. Are you ready to go to every one of you deserves that. I’m here be- work? cause, frankly, I believe that as children of Audience members. Yes! God, we can never fulfill our own ambitions The President. Are you warmed up? until we help our brothers and sisters to fulfill Audience members. Yes! theirs. The President. Have you heard all the I’m here because I want to redefine the speeches you want to hear? meaning of citizenship in America. I want Audience members. Yes! the children here, starting next week, and all I want to just say—let me say, first of all, over America—if you’re asked in school, how grateful I am to be here with all the what does it mean to be a good citizen, I

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want the answer to be, ‘‘Well, to be a good Remarks on Presenting the citizen, you have to obey the law. You’ve got President’s Service Awards in to go to work or be in school. You’ve got Philadelphia to pay your taxes, and, oh, yes, you have to serve in your community to help make it a April 27, 1997 better place.’’ The President. Thank you. I like that ver- And General Powell, since we’re going to sion of ‘‘Hail to the Chief.’’ Maybe the Ma- keep this going and we all have to make an rine Band could pick it up. [Laughter] account of ourselves, I’ll go first. Here’s my Ladies and gentlemen, these President’s commitment to you and your project. Service Awards are traditionally presented at In the next 4 years, the Department of De- the White House every year, but Hillary and fense will mentor, tutor, and teach one mil- I are profoundly honored to be here this lion children. In the next 4 years, the Depart- evening with President and Mrs. Bush, Gen- ment of Transportation and the private busi- eral Powell, and all others who are part of nesses who work with them will do that for this very important ceremony. one million more. We will adopt a total of As all of you know, we’re here along with 2,000 schools in the Federal agencies of this President Ford, President and Mrs. Carter, country. We will find one million reading tu- Mrs. Reagan, here in Philadelphia where our tors in the America Reads program, to make great democracy began, for the first Presi- sure every child can read independently by dents’ Summit for America’s Future, to mo- the third grade. And our AmeriCorps volun- bilize every community and challenge every teers will go across this country to recruit citizen, to give our young people a chance at least a dozen more volunteers for every to live up to their God-given potential, and one of them, to make sure that all of the to ask our young people to become citizen items on your agenda succeed. That is our servants, too. commitment. So tonight we’re going to give these Are you ready to keep your commitment? awards, very appropriately, in the categories Audience members. Yes! that have been set out for the challenge to The President. After today is over, do you America, the categories that General Powell promise to keep working tomorrow? talked about in his moving opening remarks. Audience members. Yes! And I’m going to have the honor of recogniz- ing the caring adults. I’m pleased to be joined The President. And next year? tonight by a man who has dedicated his en- Audience members. Yes! tire life to meeting the challenge of service, The President. And the year after that? Harris Wofford. Audience members. Yes! The President. Until the job is done? [At this point, Harris Wofford, Chief Execu- Audience members. Yes! tive Officer, Corporation for National and The President. I promise. Say it! Community Service made brief remarks.] Audience members. I promise! The President. You know, you might have The President. Let’s go to work. guessed that before he headed our Nation’s God bless you. citizens service effort and the corporation for national service, Harris Wofford was in poli- NOTE: The President spoke at 11:05 a.m. at tics—[laughter]—the Senator from Penn- Marcus Foster Stadium. In his remarks, he re- sylvania. But before that, he was a college ferred to Mayor Edward Rendell of Philadelphia; president; before that, a founder of the Peace former Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Colin Corps; a top aide to President Kennedy; a L. Powell, USA, (Ret.), and his wife, Alma; and friend and ally of Dr. Martin Luther King. former First Lady Rosalyn Carter. Hardly any American living today better per-

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sonifies citizen service than Harris Wofford, value themselves and their culture. We honor and I thank him for that. Pat for giving the young girls of her commu- As I said, we begin by recognizing that nity the confidence and pride they need to every single child needs a caring adult in his succeed in life. or her life to teach and guide them. Every Congratulations. child needs to know that he or she is pro- [The President presented the award to Ms. foundly important to some grownup. The Esparza.] three Americans we honor now have devoted themselves to meeting this challenge. All of them have helped to make sure that Marjorie Klein knows that parents are our more of our young people do, in fact, have children’s first teachers, and she’s doing ev- a caring adult to give them the support they erything she can to help them. At 20 inner- need to build positive futures. Your work is city schools throughout the Philadelphia an inspiration to all of us. I thank you for area, PACT, or Parents And Children To- doing it, and I hope all of us will now be gether, the organization Marjorie founded, more willing to follow your lead. God bless brings parents into the classroom to read to you. [Applause.] the children and to help their children learn to read. At the same time, parents can im- [Former First Lady Barbara Bush, assisted prove their own literacy and tutoring skills, by actor John Travolta, presented the next and they can even earn college credit. We group of awards. Former President George salute Marjorie Klein and PACT for their tre- Bush, assisted by actress Brooke Shields mendous commitment to families and our Agassi, presented the next group of awards. children. Hillary Clinton, assisted by movie director Rob Reiner, presented the next group of [The President presented the award to Ms. awards. Following the award presentations, Klein.] singer Patti LaBelle performed.] The President. Earl Phelan deeply be- The President. Thank you, Patti LaBelle, lieves that mentoring is the key to young peo- for giving us all a second wind. [Laughter] ple’s success. Through B.E.L.L., or Building I want to apologize to all of you for having Enterprises for Learning and Living, the or- to spend so much time tonight watching me ganization he helped to found, he has given walk up and down stairs. But as you know, hundreds of African-American young adults I need the practice. [Laughter] the chance to be role models and tutors to I want to say that this last award in some inner-city elementary school students ways may be the most important, because throughout the greater Boston area. Under we’re recognizing young people who, them- their tutelage, those children are thriving, selves, are serving in an extraordinary way. their futures are brighter and, therefore, so And one of the elements of this summit is are ours. Tonight we honor Earl Phelan for the proposition that every young people his remarkable contribution to our American should serve, and that, in so doing, we hope community. to expand the definition of what it means to [The President presented the award to Mr. be a good citizen in this country so that when Phelan.] we ask young people in years to come, what does it really mean to be a good American, The President. Pat Esparza learned early they’ll say, ‘‘Well, you have to be in school in life that confidence and pride can make or work, you have to obey the law, and you all the difference to a young girl’s future. A have to serve.’’ single mother of three by the age of 19, she I’m joined now on stage by a young public worked her way through school and devoted servant, Jahi Davis, an AmeriCorps volunteer herself to helping at-risk girls. She founded from north Philadelphia. Like a lot of high Las Mariposas as a dance studio, but for the school students, this young man paid more people of El Paso, Texas, it is a community attention to his social life than to his future. treasure. At Las Mariposas hundreds of Then he nearly lost his life in a serious acci- young girls have learned to dance and to dent. He says now he wouldn’t have finished

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high school without the guidance of a tutor Last year, nearly 5,000 Target employees who helped him keep his grades up while and their families volunteered. Working he was in the hospital. When he recovered, alongside their parents, young people he decided to do for others what had been learned firsthand about the importance and done for him. He joined AmeriCorps in the joy of giving back. We thank Target stores 1995, and since then, he has tutored chil- for helping so many young children start dren, started a mentoring program in his own early on a lifetime of service. neighborhood, and rehabilitated houses for With us tonight to represent Target is Julie low income families. He’s planning to attend Hennessy. Temple University, where I know he’ll con- [The President presented the award to Ms. tinue to give back. Please welcome him up Hennessy.] here with me. [Applause] When 21-year-old Na’Taki Osborne The President. As Oprah said earlier, the learned that Carver Hills, Georgia, a low in- 16 award winners with us tonight represent come African-American community, was the volunteers all over our country who are com- most environmentally polluted area in Fulton mitted to helping us all build a better and County, she didn’t just become concerned, stronger future. In honoring their contribu- she got involved. She got 200 community vol- tions, we celebrate the spirit of service that unteers involved, too. And together they has sustained America in times of trouble and spent hundreds of hours cleaning up Carver united us with common hopes and dreams. Hills, making it a safer and more beautiful At the dawn of a new century, let us all place for the entire community to enjoy. resolve to join hands to do it more. Remem- Thank you, Na’Taki Yatascha Osborne, for ber what this summit is all about. These peo- caring enough to change your community for ple were doing all this before we gathered. the better. Ninety-three million Americans already vol- [The President presented the award to Ms. unteer. What we’re saying is that in every Osborne.] community in America, more people must do it in a systematic way, and everyone must The President. Amber Lynn Coffman is do it if America is going to have the future only 15 years old, but she’s been volunteering it deserves and our children are going to all to help disadvantaged people since she was be like those whom we honor here tonight. 8. Her mother taught her that even one per- Thank you, and God bless you all. son can make a real difference, and for most NOTE: The President spoke at 9:10 p.m. in Exhibit of her still-young life, she has tried to be that Hall A of the Convention Center. In his remarks, one person and to encourage her friends and he referred to talk show host Oprah Winfrey. schoolmates to do the same. Working to- gether as a group called Happy Helpers, they make over 600 box lunches every week for Remarks at the Opening Ceremony the homeless and the hungry. Thank you, for the Presidents’ Summit for Amber Lynn, for your wonderful commit- America’s Future in Philadelphia ment to your community. April 28, 1997 [The President presented the award to Ms. Thank you very much. Ladies and gentle- Coffman.] men, I want to begin by thanking Matthew Across America, more and more busi- and Teevee and Christina and Jamil and nesses believe that good citizenship is also Christy for introducing the Presidents and good business. More and more, they’re en- Mrs. Reagan. They reminded us of what this couraging their employees to give something summit is all about. back. Target Stores is a perfect example. I thank President and Mrs. Bush, Presi- Through the Family Matters Program, start- dent and Mrs. Carter, President Ford, Mrs. ed by Points of Light, Target Stores is the Reagan, Vice President and Mrs. Gore for first national company to involve its employ- their devotion to this endeavor. I thank Har- ees and their families in community service. ris Wofford and Bob Goodwin, the president

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of the Points of Light Foundation; Henry we had a flexible, constitutional, evolving, ef- Cisneros and Lynda Robb; and all the others fective government at every level. But we who have worked for this day. I say a special have succeeded mostly because in the gaps word of thanks to all the public officials who between what is done by Government and have come from all over our country, Mem- what is done by the private economy, citizens bers of Congress, Governors, Lieutenant have found ways to step forward and move Governors and others. But particularly, I our country forward and lift our people up. want to thank General Colin Powell. Citizen service is the story of our more per- At our last meeting, when he was about fect Union. to retire as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Now we live in one of the great moments Staff, I asked him if there was another mis- of change in our history, more full of prom- sion which might bring him back into public ise, as President Ford said, than any period life. He said he wanted to help children who of America’s past. More of these children be- didn’t have what they needed to succeed in hind me and more of these children out here life and who needed the chance to serve on these streets of Philadelphia will have America. Well, General, this may be your more chances to live out the future of their most important mission, and I want to thank dreams than any generation of American you for reenlisting. Thank you. children in history if the citizens of this coun- I thank my friend Mayor Rendell and the try step forward to fill the gaps in their lives wonderful people of Philadelphia, Governor and in our national life to form a more per- Ridge and the people of Pennsylvania who fect Union. have made us feel so welcome. But let us not be blind to the facts. Even We come here before the house where with all the progress that together we have America was born, the place where we, the made, with 12 million new jobs and a record people, took the first step on our centuries- drop in welfare rolls and years of dropping old journey to form a more perfect Union. crime rates, you and I know that millions of On the last day of the Constitutional Conven- our children are being left behind in lives tion, Benjamin Franklin walked out of this of too much danger, too many drugs, too lit- hall and encountered a woman anxious to tle hope, and not enough opportunity. You know what had gone on inside. She asked and I know that too many people are out him, ‘‘Well, Doctor, what have we got, a there doing the very best they can and still monarchy or a republic?’’ Mr. Franklin re- not keeping up, much less moving forward. plied, ‘‘A republic, if you can keep it.’’ Yes, there are things that the Government For more than 200 years, we have strug- should do. None of us stand here, President gled to keep this Republic. It is an enduring and former Presidents, to say that we must and endless challenge, for endemic in human not do our responsibility. Of course, we nature and human frailty are successive gen- should do better with our schools. Of course, erations of problems. But we have always we should open the doors of college to every- succeeded in making our Union more per- one. Of course, all our children should have fect. Consider how imperfect it was when we health care coverage. Of course, we can do had people in this country who weren’t even more to make our streets safer. But even if treated as people but slaves. Consider how we do everything we should, you and I know imperfect it was when children could be that a lot of the problems facing our children forced to work long hours into the night in are problems of the human heart, problems dangerous conditions. Consider how imper- that can only be resolved when there is a fect it was when women, now more than half one-on-one connection, community by com- the population of America, could not even munity, neighborhood by neighborhood, vote. street by street, home by home, with every So when you get discouraged, remember, child in this country entitled to live out their we have succeeded in over 200 years in form- God-given destiny. You know it is true. ing a more perfect Union. We have suc- I am proud of the fact that because of the ceeded because we’ve had a brilliant free en- computer and micro solutions to problems terprise system. We have succeeded because we don’t need big Government bureauc-

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racies to do some of the things that used to cent of them would do it. We ought to be be done. But as I have said repeatedly, the ashamed of ourselves if we don’t give them era of big Government may be over, but the the chance to do that. era of big challenges for our country is not, Let me also say, of course, that we need and so we need an era of big citizenship. That some of them to serve full-time. They do, is why we are here, and that is what we you know, in the Peace Corps. [Applause] should promise ourselves we will do. And we have some former Peace Corps vol- Let me say one other thing, too. Look at unteers out there applauding. But we should these kids behind me. They’re America’s fu- all applaud them because they have helped ture, all of them. And when you think of what to change the world for the better—[ap- is tearing the world apart today, the racial, plause]—and they do in AmeriCorps, the na- the ethnic, the religious hatreds, from Bosnia tional service program that was started in our to Northern Ireland to the Middle East to administration. The idea behind AmeriCorps Africa, and you look at the children behind was to instill an ethic of mutual responsibility me and you realize what a gift from God our in our children so that young people could diversity is, you know that if we know each improve their own lives in return for improv- other, if we serve each other, if we work with ing the life of America. each other, one of the things that will happen Since its creation, 50,000 young Americans is, we will make sure that our diversity is a have earned college tuition by serving their rich resource to make our Union more per- communities in many ways. And we know fect, not an instrument of our national that the typical full-time community servant undoing in the 21st century. recruits at least a dozen more volunteers. I We cherish our citizen volunteers. There saw that in North Dakota when I went to are already more than 90 million of us, and see what the Red River had done to Grand after this summit there will be more. Espe- Forks and to the rest of North Dakota and cially because General Powell, Ray Cham- Minnesota. I saw our young AmeriCorps vol- bers, and others have organized a followup unteers, and I knew that because they were to this. And the really important work of this able to serve full-time, they’d be there when summit will begin after my talk’s over, when the waters receded, the mess was there, the you go into the workshops and the meetings people had to put their lives back together, and make a commitment that in every com- and the cameras were gone. I saw it again munity there will be a systematic, disciplined, yesterday when we were working on the comprehensive effort to deal with the five streets and on the stadium and on the areas outlined as the challenges for our young schools. people. That is what really matters here. The will to serve has never been stronger, Young people above all, however, have the and more of our young people want to serve time, the energy and the idealism for this full-time. But there’s a limit to what we can kind of citizen service. Before they have their do now. And yet, there is a solution—iron- own families, the young can make a unique ically, one I came to right here in Philadel- contribution to the family of America. In phia, for here in Philadelphia, a minister who doing so, they can acquire the habit of service is a friend of mine, Reverend Tony Campolo, and get a deeper understanding of what it is helping to organize a movement among really means to be a citizen. That is the main churches to get churches to sponsor 10,000 reason, perhaps, we are here. full-time youth volunteers to take a year off In Philadelphia, the superintendent of from college or defer a year from college schools is working to make service the ex- under the sponsorship of their churches. pected thing in elementary and middle The churches will do what we do in school. Maryland has required it in high AmeriCorps, helping to provide for the living school. And I challenge every State and every expenses of the young people. But I think school in this country at least to offer in a we ought to say to them, at the very least, disciplined, organized way every young per- it shouldn’t cost you any money to serve. And son in school a chance to serve. A recent sur- so if you’ve got a college loan and you take vey said if they were just asked, over 90 per- a year off to serve under the sponsorship of

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a religious organization, I’m going to propose to families when all help seems gone. The legislation to say during that year no interest most important title today is not Senator, should accrue on that college loan. It should Vice President, general, Governor, or Presi- not cost you any money to serve your coun- dent, it is, as Harry Truman reminded us so try. long ago, the most important title any of us But we can do more. We can double the will ever hold in this country is the title of impact of AmeriCorps with the help of our citizen. This is our Republic. Let us keep it. religious and charitable institutions. I want [Applause] Thank you. to challenge every charity, every religious And now, I would like to call upon Mrs. group, every community group and their Reagan and my fellow Presidents to join me business supporters to give young people the in signing this summit declaration, ‘‘A Call support they need to do a year of community to Citizen Service To Fulfill the Promise of service. If you do that, then in our budget America.’’ We do this in the hope that in now we will be able to give every one of them the weeks and months to come, millions and the scholarship that AmeriCorps volunteers millions and millions of you will join us in get for their year of community service. Work putting your names to the declaration, devot- with your churches, work with your commu- ing your lives to the mission, and beginning nity organizations, and we can provide that the era of big citizenship for the United to young people. Put them to work as men- States. tors, as teachers, as organizers of other volun- Thank you, and God bless you all. teers, and we can double the number of full- time youth volunteers by adding another NOTE: The President spoke at approximately 50,000. By the year 2000, that would mean 10:30 a.m. at Independence National Historical Park. In his remarks, he referred to Henry that in 8 years, more children will have Cisneros and Lynda Robb, vice chairs, Presidents’ served full-time on our streets than have Summit for America’s Future, and Gov. Tom worked in the entire history of the Peace Ridge of Pennsylvania. Corps around the world. We can change America, folks, if we’ll do it together, hand in hand, community by community. Remarks at the Presidents’ Summit The same thing is true of the police corps, for America’s Future which offers young people a chance to pay Luncheon in Philadelphia for their college education if they’ll be police April 28, 1997 officers for 4 years. We can triple the number of young people who do that, and I intend Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. I’ve had to try. We need more young people going a great time here, and I want to thank all as teachers into our schools. And we must of you for being so patient while I lumber support them in that. around with my temporary disability. Can We have to understand that we need a bal- you imagine how bad I would look if I had ance between volunteers on a part-time actually jumped out of an airplane? [Laugh- basis, volunteers on a full-time basis, and ter] I’m looking forward to not being Presi- there is no conflict between the two. We dent. You know, if I can jump out of an air- have to understand that we value America’s plane and look like Jerry Ford does in 30 free enterprise system. We know we need years, I’ll be one happy guy. That’s a great our Government, but there will never be a thing. time when we need citizen servants more I want to thank President Bush for all of than we need them today, because these chil- the people that he mentioned and thanking dren have got to be saved one by one. them—I join with that—and especially Ray And let me say to all of you, the most im- Chambers and Stuart Shapiro and General portant people here today are not the Presi- Powell for their extraordinary efforts. I’d also dents or the generals or the Governors or like to thank the leaders of the corporate and the Senators. The most important people are nonprofit sector who are here today, includ- those who teach the student to read, who ing my longtime friend Millard Fuller, Bob save the health of the infant, who give help Allen, Doug Watson, and Gerry Greenwald

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and so many others. We’ve all been washed Here’s the second thing. Let me just tell in the warm glow of lots of words and music you a brief story. Before I came to Philadel- and the powerful examples, and I must say, phia, I asked a man in Washington, DC, I will live with the stories that the young peo- named Kent Amos, a lot of you know, to ple told last night at that event for the rest come in and see me. I met him when my of my life. friend Ron Brown died in a plane crash, and I would just like to make two points here, he was Ron’s next-door neighbor. And a lot because I really want this to make a dif- of you know he and his wife, Carmen, kind ference. I think there are two keys to wheth- of got into this volunteer work by just taking er when people look back on this moment in kids that their children went to school with 10 years from now, they say ‘‘These people who came from dysfunctional backgrounds. really did something special; they changed And they wound up having 20 or more at America.’’ The first is what General Powell a time that were, in effect, living with them. and Ray Chambers and others are doing with And now he’s tried to take the model that the followup on America’s promise. And ev- he—I thought he perfected in his own home erything you can do to support that, you and kind of took it into neighborhoods and should, making those promises. We’re going communities. to try to do our part. But I asked him to come see me. And I I said yesterday that the Department of said, ‘‘What do you want me to do now? What Defense will tutor or teach a million children can I do to help you, and what do we have to do now?’’ He said, ‘‘Go to that summit in the next 4 years. The Department of and tell them the breakout sessions are the Transportation and the contractors with most important thing that’s going to occur, whom it works have committed to reach an- because unless every community gets orga- other million kids with tutoring or teaching. nized, community by community, we will not We are going to go from 1,500 to 2,000 have the maximum benefit of this, because, schools we’ve adopted. essentially, the problem is we have an unac- Going back to what Eli said—we’ll have ceptably high percentage of people living in more to say about that later—we’re going to dysfunctional environments. And you can do hire 10,000 people to move from welfare to a number of good things for them sporadi- work so they can support their children bet- cally, but until you completely change the ter. We’re going to try to extend health insur- environment, we won’t have the success rate ance to 5 million kids and try to at least make we need.’’ the first 2 years of college as available as a That’s essentially what General Powell said high school education is today. We’ll try to in our last conversation before he took his do our part, and we’ll try to do it in very uniform off, that all the troubled young peo- personal ways. ple that he knew who came into the military The last Christmas and the last birthday had gone from whatever dysfunctional envi- I had were some of the best I ever had in ronment they had into a completely func- my life because my gift from the White tional environment. Now, you can’t guaran- House staff was a notebook of personal tee that, any of you individually. But collec- pledges from community service. My Secret tively, community by community, we can. So, Service detail adopted a junior high school in that sense, the Governors and the mayors in Washington, DC, where those young peo- who are here are profoundly important peo- ple are getting the role models that they ple. And the people who run community- need. We’ll try to do our part. based nonprofits are important people. And the followup—one reason I wanted But the only other thing I would say is, to do this summit so badly was that I thought let’s really pay attention to these breakout we could find a completely nonpartisan way sessions, and let’s promise ourselves that in to embrace this issue, and then I knew I addition to running up the numbers that we could trust Colin Powell and Ray Chambers all promised—and since I’ve got a big organi- and the others to do good followup. That’s zation, I can promise big numbers—but the first thing. we’re, honest to goodness, going to promise

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ourselves that we will try to change the cul- be here in Philadelphia, where our country ture in these communities from dysfunc- got started. tional environments to functional ones. You I want to thank the young AmeriCorps vol- saw these kids. They’re great. They’re going unteers I just saw inside who work with to make it. They’re going to do just fine if Youth Build, Antoine Jackson and William we just give them what they need in a system- McBride. I saw them in the school there. I’d atic way, place by place. like to thank your wonderful Congressman, Thank you, and God bless you all. Tom Foglietta, and Congressman Don Payne from New Jersey and Congressman Sam NOTE: The President spoke at 1:05 p.m. in the Ford who came all the way from California Ballroom at the Benjamin Franklin Hotel. In his to be here with us today. We’re glad to see remarks, he referred to Raymond G. Chambers, them. I’d like to thank Latifah Beard and the cofounder, Points of Light Foundation; Stuart other students here at the student council— Shapiro, president and chief executive officer, the student body—who gave Hillary and me Presidents’ Summit for America’s Future; Millard Fuller, founder, Habitat for Humanity; Robert E. the gifts. And I’d like to say that I thought Allen, chairman and chief executive officer, AT&T Tiffany and Darryl did a very good job intro- Corp.; Douglas Watson, president and chief exec- ducing the First Lady, didn’t you? [Applause] utive officer, Novartis Corp.; and Gerry And finally, I’d like to thank Jahi Davis for Greenwald, chief executive officer, United Air- speaking on behalf of all the AmeriCorps vol- lines. unteers. He helped me with the President’s Service Awards last night, and he said what he had to say today better than I ever could. Remarks to Students, Teachers, I just want to say to all of you that when Parents, and AmeriCorps Volunteers I ran for President for the first time, starting in Philadelphia now more than 5 years ago, I had a dream April 28, 1997 that I could give young people in this country a chance to serve in their communities, to Thank you. Thank you very much. I am help children, to make places safer, to make so pleased to be here. Thank you for making the schools work better, to deal with the me feel so welcome. I want to say to all of health problems and the worries and the you, I have looked forward to coming to this fears of our children and build up their hopes school since I knew I was coming to Philadel- and, at the same time, earn a little money phia, because I knew when I came here the for a college education. That’s how people who come with me, including the AmeriCorps was born. press corps, would see what we’re talking I really dreamed that someday I could walk about when we talk about service. And we into a school like Nebinger Elementary and say that everyone can serve; everyone can see what I saw today, two young people tu- make a difference. And if all young people toring 5-year-olds, talking to them about serve, we can turn this country around and their lives and their future. One of the young put it in the right direction for every single men actually dropped out of high school be- child in America. fore joining AmeriCorps, but now, because I want to thank so many people. I thank of AmeriCorps, he wants to be able to help your principal, John Krauss; the superintend- young people from now on and to go on with ent and my long-time friend, David his own education. We learn that by giving Hornbeck. And thank you, Harris Wofford, and serving other people, we’re actually help- for doing a wonderful job with the Corpora- ing ourselves. tion for National Service. I kind of hated to I told somebody the other day that if we hear David Hornbeck say we had more could get everybody in America to serve, AmeriCorps volunteers in the Philadelphia we’d have the happiest country on Earth and schools than anywhere else because now people would see that service is selfish. Did somebody will think that he was doing the you ever see an unhappy person who was home folks a little home cooking. [Laughter] really helping somebody else? Aren’t you all But I’m glad you’re here. And you ought to happier because you’re in Youth Build, be-

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cause you’re in the National School and class I just visited? Every one of them was Community Corps? talking about how they like to serve. Every And that’s what the Presidents and Gen- one of those young children had to say, ‘‘I eral Powell and others have come together like to help. I like to do something,’’ and then to do here in Philadelphia at this Presidents’ draw a picture of what they like to do. No Summit of Service. We want to try to help one is too young to serve. No one is too old guarantee that our children have a better fu- to serve. ture. And what I want to do is to challenge We are the most diverse country in the every young person in America to serve as world with a big democracy. We have people a volunteer or as a full-time community serv- from all different races, all different ethnic ice person. groups, all different religions. But when we Let me tell you, since AmeriCorps opened live together and work together and reach its door just 4 years ago, we’ve had 50,000 across the lines that divide us, we are the young people and some not so young— most interesting, the most powerful, the most 50,000 serve in communities the way these vital country in human history. If we serve, young AmeriCorps volunteers are today. And that’s the kind of country we’ll be in the 21st it’s making a difference for America’s future. century for all these children. That’s my More importantly, the average AmeriCorps promise to you, and I want it to be your volunteer helps to generate another 12 part- promise to yourselves. time volunteers who come along and help. God bless you, and keep it up. That, too, makes America strong. And what I asked America to do today was NOTE: The President spoke at 2:46 p.m. at the to support me in making it possible for many George Washington Nebinger Elementary more young people to serve, like Jahi and School. In his remarks, he referred to AmeriCorps volunteers Antoine Jackson, William McBride, the other AmeriCorps volunteers have done, and Jahi Davis; and Latifah Beard, eighth grade because I found out that here in Philadelphia student, George Washington Nebinger Elemen- there’s another movement going on spear- tary School. headed by a minister who’s a friend of mine named Tony Campolo. He’s going around to churches and saying, ‘‘You ought to support Letter to Congressional Leaders young people the way AmeriCorps supports Transmitting the Report on Cyprus young people and pay for them to have living April 25, 1997 expenses so they can serve a year in commu- nity service work.’’ Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. Chairman:) Today I said, ‘‘If those young people do In accordance with Public Law 95–384 (22 that through their churches or their syna- U.S.C. 23732(c)), I submit to you this report gogues or their mosques, through their com- on progress toward a negotiated settlement munity organizations, we will make sure, of the Cyprus question. The previous submis- number one, if they’re in college and they’ve sion covered progress through November 30, got a student loan, that they don’t have to 1996. The current submission covers the pe- pay any interest on the student loan during riod December 1, 1996, through January 31, the year that they’re working and no interest 1997. builds up. And number two, if they’re willing As I noted to you in my last report, we to go out and meet the same standard of hard have been very concerned about the decision work and long hours that the AmeriCorps by the Government of Cyprus to purchase volunteers meet, they will also become eligi- the SA–10 anti-aircraft missile system and ble for the scholarship.’’ That could bring the resulting threats of a military strike by 50,000 more young people into the kind of Turkey. The United States and its allies tried community service we see with Youth Build hard to persuade Cyprus that purchasing and with the National School and Commu- these missiles was a step leading away from nity Corps. negotiations, which remain the only way to And finally, let me say, you know what the solve the Cyprus problem. In the context of project was that kids were working on in the the already excessive levels of armaments on

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Cyprus and last summer’s intercommunal vi- and powder cocaine distribution by dramati- olence, the government’s decision to go for- cally reducing the penalties for crack. I be- ward with the purchases was doubly regret- lieve that was the wrong approach then and table. Additionally, I remain disappointed would be the wrong approach now. that the parties have not implemented alter- Current law creates a substantial disparity native measures to reduce tensions along the between sentences for crack and powder co- cease-fire lines. Despite these clear setbacks, caine. This disparity has led to a perception I believe the decision by Cyprus, at our urg- of unfairness and inconsistency in the Fed- ing, to defer importation of components of eral criminal justice system. the SA–10 system for 16 months is a step The sentencing laws must continue to re- in the right direction and provides us with flect that crack cocaine is a more harmful a window of opportunity to make progress form of cocaine. The Sentencing Commis- in resolving the Cyprus issue. sion’s new recommendations do so. Traffick- As Secretary Albright noted at her con- ing in crack, and the violence it fosters, has firmation hearings, the parties need to take a devastating impact on communities across further steps to reduce tensions and improve America, especially inner-city communities. the climate for negotiations. The United States remains committed to promoting a Cy- Any change in penalties must ensure that prus settlement but needs the full coopera- more dangerous offenders receive tougher tion of the parties, including Greece and Tur- sentences. key, to achieve our mutual goals. We con- As I have stated before, however, some ad- tinue to see that the only way forward is di- justment to the cocaine penalty structure is rect, good faith negotiations between the par- warranted as a matter of sound criminal jus- ties themselves. The United States will con- tice policy. Federal prosecutors should target tinue to work toward bringing these negotia- mid- and high-level drug traffickers, rather tions about. than low-level drug offenders. An adjustment Sincerely, to the penalty scheme will help ensure this William J. Clinton allocation of resources and make our Federal efforts in fighting drugs more effective. That NOTE: Identical letters were sent to Newt Ging- is why the legislation I signed directed the rich, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Sentencing Commission to undertake addi- and Jesse Helms, chairman, Senate Committee on tional review of these issues and to report Foreign Relations. This letter was released by the back with new recommendations. Office of the Press Secretary on April 29. I am also pleased that the Sentencing Commission has increased penalties for Statement on Sentencing methamphetamine offenses pursuant to the Commission Action on Penalties for legislation which I signed into law last year. Drug Offenses This law asked the Commission to toughen April 29, 1997 penalties on this emerging drug to prevent the kind of epidemic we saw in the 1980’s I commend the Sentencing Commission with cocaine use. We will carefully study for moving forward with recommendations these new penalties. to Congress to reduce the disparity between My administration has fought to stop drug crack and powder cocaine penalties. My ad- abuse and its destructive consequences. ministration will give them very serious con- Overall, drug use in the United States has sideration. I have asked Director McCaffrey fallen dramatically—by half in 15 years. And and Attorney General Reno to review the cocaine use has dramatically decreased since recommendations and to report back to me the high point in 1985—the number of cur- in 60 days. I look forward to working with rent cocaine users is down by 74 percent over the Congress on this issue. the last decade. While these are encouraging In October 1995, I signed legislation dis- figures, I am fully committed to doing more approving the Sentencing Commission’s rec- to keep bringing drug use down—particu- ommendation to equalize penalties for crack larly among our children.

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Remarks Prior to Discussions With country. And she didn’t have a bad choice; President Jose Aznar of Spain and an she just picked the decision she though was Exchange With Reporters best for her. Q. How do you feel about her going so April 30, 1997 far away? President Clinton. Well, let me begin by President Clinton. Well, the planes run welcoming President Aznar and his group of out there, and the phones work out there. leaders from Spain. Spain has set an example [Laughter] And the E-mail works out there. for the world now for quite a few years in So we’ll be all right. its transition to a remarkable and healthy and Q. What was your role, sir, in the decision? vibrant democracy, which produced your re- President Clinton. None, except I lis- cent election, and has been a very valuable tened, asked questions, and attempted to ally and partner of the United States in have no influence whatever. Bosnia and now in Guatemala and, of course, is going to be the host of our summit on Hong Kong NATO in July. So we’re looking very much Q. Mr. President, did you get any assur- forward to being there. And we appreciate ances from the Foreign Minister of Hong you very much. Kong that Hong Kong would enjoy greater Yes, we have our fingers crossed. [Laugh- autonomy under Chinese rule? Did you get ter] any assurances? Budget Agreement President Clinton. Well, we had a good discussion about Hong Kong, and he assured Q. Have you got a budget deal, Mr. Presi- me that China intended to observe the terms dent? And why did Chelsea pick Stanford? of the agreement of 1984 that they made with [Laughter] Great Britain and that the United States sup- President Clinton. Not yet, but if you ported back then. I was quite satisfied with look at the economic news this morning, it what he said. And I certainly hope that it is one more clear example that we did the will reflect Chinese policy. right thing in ’93 and that the right strategy The Vice President. Thank you. Muchos is to bring the deficit down, expand trade, gracias. and invest in education and training and science and technology. And so, if we can get an agreement that does all that—that is Helms-Burton Amendment balances the budget but also continues to in- Q. Do you consider the conflict on Helms- vest in the areas that our people need to grow Burton completely finished, sir? the economy—then I will support it. And President Clinton. I hope so. we’re working hard. We worked hard yester- [At this point, one group of reporters left the day. And perhaps it will happen. room, and another group entered.] Q. Before you go to Mexico? President Clinton. Oh, I don’t know President Clinton. Is everybody in? about that. Let me begin by welcoming President Aznar here to visit us. We have had a won- Chelsea’s College Decision derful partnership with Spain for many years Q. Tell us about why Chelsea chose Stan- and have admired the vibrant democracy that ford, why you think she did? the Spanish people enjoy, and have appre- President Clinton. I don’t know. She ciated the partnership we have had with looked at all these schools, she had wonderful Spain in NATO, working together in Bosnia, choices, and she made her own decision. And most recently in Guatemala. her mother and I are proud of her, and we And I want to say a special word of appre- support her. ciation, obviously, to the President for You know, the great thing about America hosting the NATO summit in Madrid this is that there are literally a few hundred July. I’m looking forward to that and hoping world-class educational institutions in this I can come a day or two early and look

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around Spain again, for the first time in 30 ago—28 years ago this month, I had a vaca- years. tion as a very young man in Spain. And I’ve President Aznar. You’re invited; you always wanted to go back, and I’ve always know that. I hope to see you there. wanted to have a chance to see it with Hil- [At this point, President Aznar continued his lary. My daughter was able to come to Spain remarks in Spanish, and a translation was for an extended period a couple of years ago. not provided.] So we’re hoping that we can take just a cou- ple of days off before the summit to see some NATO more things in Spain. I’ll follow the Presi- Q. Mr. President, what do you expect from dent’s lead; I won’t sketch out my itinerary Spain with the new role that NATO has to here because I don’t really have one. [Laugh- play? ter] President Clinton. Well, first of all, I ex- pect an important leadership role. We want Spain integrated fully into the NATO com- NOTE: The President spoke at 12:45 p.m. in the mand structure. We’re very fortunate in hav- Oval Office at the White House. In his remarks, the President referred to Minister of Foreign Af- ing a Secretary-General of NATO from fairs Qian Qichen of China; and Javier Solana, Spain. And having Madrid be the site of this Secretary-General of the North Atlantic Treaty historic summit when we will vote for the Organization. A tape was not available for verifica- first time to take in new members and hope- tion of the content of these remarks. fully be in a position to celebrate a new ar- rangement with Russia—we’re working on that now; we hope we can achieve that—I think symbolizes the role that Spain will play Statement on Economic Expansion in the years ahead in NATO. and Job Creation Also, we look to the Spanish to lead in April 30, 1997 NATO, to be willing to do what has to be done, to have a say in situations which may Today, we have received positive news not be immediately popular but which are about the Nation’s economy—more strong profoundly important. growth with moderate inflation. In the first Again, let me say, I’m very grateful to the quarter of this year, the economy grew 5.6 support we’ve received in Bosnia, to the work percent on an annualized basis—the highest we’re doing in Guatemala. The influence that in a decade. That means more jobs and better Spain has in Latin America is something wages for American workers and stronger that’s especially important to the United profits for businesses—both large and small. States because we seek to integrate ourselves Our sound fiscal policies, together with the more closely into Latin America and in part- hard work of the American people, have nership with Spain. So we’re very hopeful sparked a remarkable period of economic ex- there. pansion and job creation. It is imperative that Q. [Inaudible]—petition for—taking a big- we pass a bipartisan balanced budget agree- ger role, more important role in the NATO? ment to continue this solid economic President Clinton. Well, the details of all that have to be worked out by the command progress. structure. But we want Spain integrated into Just more than 4 years ago, we inherited the structure, yes. a deficit that was nearly $300 billion, and we have cut it by 63 percent already. While it The President’s Visit to Spain is still too early to know for certain, our eco- Q. [Inaudible]—will you come next? nomic policies and this year’s healthy growth President Clinton. I don’t know. Since may help us cut the deficit for the 5th straight I’ve been President, I’ve only been really to year—for the first time in 50 years. Now, it’s Madrid and for brief periods. But 30 years time to finish the job and balance the budget.

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Statement on the Senate Resolution Statement on the House of Establishing National Erase the Hate Representatives Passage of the and Eliminate Racism Day ‘‘Adoption Promotion Act of 1997’’ April 30, 1997 April 30, 1997 I congratulate the House of Representa- I applaud the leadership of Senator Bau- tives on the passage of H.R. 867, the Adop- cus, along with Senator Burns and all Mem- tion Promotion Act of 1997. This bipartisan bers of the United States Senate who have legislation will further our efforts to give the joined together to designate today as a na- children waiting in the foster care system tional day to erase the hate and eliminate what ever child in America deserves—loving racism. America is the world’s most diverse parents and a healthy, stable home. democracy and the world looks to us for lead- The First Lady and I have had a continu- ership in building on that diversity and show- ing commitment to uniting these waiting ing that it is our greatest strength. Today’s children with families to teach, guide, and resolution shows that the Senate is deter- care for them. In December, I directed the mined to reach across party lines to help Department of Health and Human Services achieve that promise. to come up with a strategy to simplify the We must do all we can to fight bigotry adoption process and move more children and intolerance, in ugly words and awful vio- more quickly from foster care into perma- lence, in burned churches and bombed nent homes. In response to this directive, buildings—including efforts such as today’s HHS submitted Adoption 2002, a report resolution. The only way we can meet our which takes its name from one of its central challenges is by meeting them together—as goals—to double by the year 2002 the num- one America—and giving all of our citizens, ber of children adopted or permanently whatever their background, an opportunity placed each year. to achieve their own greatness. The Adoption Promotion Act of 1997 in- corporates many of the recommendations made in the administration’s report. I urge Congress to keep this important legislation Statement on Senate Confirmation of moving forward. Alexis Herman as Secretary of Labor April 30, 1997 Statement on Signing the Assisted I want to thank the Senate for its strong Suicide Funding Restriction Act of show of support for Alexis Herman. There 1997 was never any question that she was highly April 30, 1997 qualified to be Secretary of Labor. She un- Today I am signing into law H.R. 1003, derstands the needs of workers and under- the ‘‘Assisted Suicide Funding Restriction stands the challenges they face as we ap- Act of 1997,’’ which reaffirms current Fed- proach the 21st century. eral policy banning the use of Federal funds This is an important time for the Labor to pay for assisted suicide, euthanasia, or Department. The Department must reform mercy killing. and manage programs that will help prepare This is appropriate legislation. Over the America’s working men and women for the years, I have clearly expressed my personal challenges of our changing economy. Alexis opposition to assisted suicide, and I continue Herman is fully prepared to lead the Depart- to believe that assisted suicide is wrong. ment in this effort. She will be an outstanding While I have deep sympathy for those who Secretary of Labor. suffer greatly from incurable illness, I believe

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that to endorse assisted suicide would set us Memorandum on Excused Absence on a disturbing and perhaps dangerous path. for Employees Affected by the This legislation will ensure that taxpayer dol- Flooding of the Red River and Its lars will not be used to subsidize or promote Aftermath assisted suicide. The Act will, among other April 30, 1997 things, ban the funding of assisted suicide, euthanasia, or mercy killing through Medic- Memorandum for the Heads of Executive aid, Medicare, military and Federal em- Departments and Agencies ployee health plans, the veterans health care Subject: Excused Absence for Employees system, and other Federally funded pro- Affected by the Flooding of the Red River grams. and its Aftermath Section 5(a)(3) of the Act also assures that I am deeply concerned about the devastat- taxpayer funds will not be used to subsidize ing losses caused by the flooding of the Red legal assistance or other forms of advocacy River and the impact on the well-being and in support of legal protection for assisted sui- livelihood of our fellow Americans who have cide, euthanasia, or mercy killing. The re- been affected by this disaster. Elements of strictions on the use of funds contained in the Federal Government have been mobi- lized to respond to this disaster. this section, properly construed, will allow As part of this effort, I request the heads the Federal Government to speak with a of executive departments and agencies, who clear voice in opposing these practices. The have Federal civilian employees in Min- Department of Justice has advised, however, nesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota in that a broad construction of this section areas designated as disaster areas because of would raise serious First Amendment con- the flooding of the Red River and its after- cerns. I am therefore instructing the Federal math, to use their discretion to excuse from agencies that they should construe section duty, without charge to leave or loss of pay, 5(a)(3) only to prohibit Federal funding for any such employee who is faced with a per- activities and services that provide legal as- sonal emergency because of this flood and sistance for the purpose of advocating a right who can be spared from his or her usual re- to assisted suicide, or that have as their pur- sponsibilities. This policy should also be ap- pose the advocacy of assisted suicide, and not plied to any employee who is needed for to restrict Federal funding for other activi- emergency law enforcement, relief, or clean- ties, such as those that provide forums for up efforts authorized by Federal, State, or the free exchange of ideas. In addition, I em- local officials having jurisdiction. phasize that section 5(a)(3) imposes no re- William J. Clinton striction on the use of nonfederal funds.

William J. Clinton Remarks Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Thomas Jefferson The White House, Building at the Library of Congress April 30, 1997. April 30, 1997 I ask you tonight to listen to these words as if you had never heard them before and try to imagine what it was like when they NOTE: H.R. 1003, approved April 30, was assigned broke across the landscape of America and Public Law No. 105–12. the world, arguably the most important

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words ever written by an American because Those words were Thomas Jefferson’s out of them all the rest flowed. words with edits by John Adams and Ben- jamin Franklin. I learned something tonight ‘‘When in the Course of human events, it looking at the Thomas Jefferson draft: Ben becomes necessary for one people to dissolve Franklin gets credit for saying that these the political bonds which have connected truths are self-evident. And that’s a pretty them to another, and to assume among the good edit. [Laughter] Would that we all had powers of the earth, the separate and equal such an editor. station to which the Laws of Nature and of As the Speaker said, now every American Nature’s God entitled them, a decent respect will be able to have access to these treasures, to the opinions of mankind requires that they not only in this magnificent building with its should declare the causes which impel them glorious reading room and its American to the separation.—We hold these truths to treasures exhibition but also through the be self-evident, that all men are created Internet. Think of it, everything from the equal, that they are endowed by their Cre- rough draft of the Declaration of Independ- ator with certain unalienable Rights, that ence, from which I just read, to George among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit Washington’s letter on the importance of re- of Happiness.—That to secure these rights, ligious freedom, to the first known autobiog- Governments are instituted among Men, de- raphy of a slave, to the first kiss captured riving their just powers from the consent of in a movie, to Groucho Marx talking to John- the governed, . . . But when a long train of ny Carson, to the magical music of Washing- abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably ton’s Duke Ellington. the same Object evinces a design to reduce But it is fitting that the books from Mr. them under absolute Despotism, it is their Jefferson’s library are at the core of the right, it is their duty, to throw off such Gov- American Treasures Collection, for he above ernment, and to provide new Guards for all understood that democracy and liberty de- their future security. . . . We, therefore, the pend upon the free flow of ideas and the Representatives of the United States of expansion of knowledge, upon the remem- America, in General Congress, Assembled, brance of history and the imagining of the appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world future. for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the To pursue those objectives, our young Na- Name, and by the Authority of the good Peo- tion, at great cost, established this Library. ple of these Colonies, solemnly publish and From those first volumes, the Library of declare, That these United Colonies are, and Congress has become the world’s largest li- of Right ought to be, Free and Independent brary, visited by 2 million people every year States; . . . And for the support of this Dec- in person and millions more every week on laration, with a firm reliance on the protec- the Internet Web site, with more to come tion of Divine Providence, we mutually as we work together to enable every school pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and library in the United States to connect and our sacred Honor.’’ to the Internet. In the most modern way, children in the most isolated rural districts, Mr. Chief Justice, Mr. Speaker, Senator the poorest inner-city districts, the most Daschle, Congressman Thomas, and other comfortable suburbs, now will be able to Members of Congress, the Joint Commission share that rough draft of the Declaration of on the Library, Mr. Kluge, and the James Independence and all the other wonderful Madison Council. Mr. Allaire, thank you all resources of the Library. for what you have done to make this night Mr. Jefferson, who looked to the future come to pass. I thank Michael Ryan for sing- more than the past, even at the end of his ing the national anthem and making us feel days, would surely be very proud, Mr. so patriotic. He has served our country, as Billington, of what his library has become. many of you know, for many years. I thank As we walk through these beautifully re- Jim Billington for his brilliant job and all the stored rooms and hallways on this 100th an- staff here for what they have done. niversary, you can almost feel the exuberance

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and optimism of the United States at the turn survive, we must cultivate the science of of the century. And now, at the dawn of a human relationships, the ability of all peoples new century, we face yet a new age of possi- of all kinds to live together and work together bilities, full of new challenge and hope. Yet in the same world at peace. And to you and in a sense, we are back where we were in to all Americans who dedicate themselves the beginning. For of all our challenges, igno- with us to the making of an abiding peace, rance is the most threatening, and of all our I say the only limit to our realization of to- riches, knowledge is the most enduring, ex- morrow will be our doubts of today. Let us cept this will be even more true in the years move forward with strong and active faith.’’ ahead. That was the speech Franklin Roosevelt That is why the opening of this exhibit and was working on in this month, 52 years ago, the restoration of this building is so signifi- when he died in Warm Springs. Though cant. By renewing the Founders’ commit- unspoken, his words, like those of Jefferson, ment to the Library of Congress, we ensure come down to us today with a freshness, a that future generations will continue to be vitality, and a fundamental truth that must inspired and guided by the ideals, the values, forever guide us as a nation. and the thirst for knowledge that are at our On Friday, we will gather to dedicate the beginning core. We are giving all of our peo- memorial to President Roosevelt, the very ple, especially our children, what they will first Presidential memorial since President need to realize their dreams and our ever- unfolding destiny as a nation. Roosevelt dedicated the one to Thomas Jef- ferson in 1943. Together we will renew our As these exhibits show, we are, and have ever been, a nation of creators and commitment to fight tyranny with liberty, ig- innovators. We are all Jefferson’s heirs, and norance with knowledge, fear with hope and we are doomed sometimes to succeed and confidence. sometimes to fail. I was amused at the pic- Thomas Jefferson and Franklin Roosevelt, ture of the massive double circular kite that I believe, would be quite proud of America Alexander Graham Bell thought might com- today—still eager to right its wrongs and pete with the Wright brothers. He would do seize its new opportunities. And I might say, very well on the Frisbee circuit today, I think, I think they’d be a little impatient with those but it wasn’t much of an airplane. But if he among us who, finding America at the pin- hadn’t had the courage to try that, well, we nacle of its power, influence, and success, might not have had the telephone. We must and therefore at the pinnacle of the respon- always maintain that spirit, and we must re- sibility outlined by President Roosevelt so member the words of Jefferson. long ago, would seek to walk away from what President Lincoln invoked the Jeffersonian are our plain obligations to engage the rest ideal, to heal a wounded nation, as he stood of the world. For in the course of human at Gettysburg. President Roosevelt looked to- events, it has fallen to us, for our own benefit ward the world that would follow World War and because it is right, to extend to a waiting II, and he too called upon Jefferson for inspi- world the ideals to which Thomas Jefferson ration and courage. The words that he wrote and his friends pledged their Lives, their then are as relevant today as they were in Fortunes, and their sacred Honor. 1945, and I would like to close with them. Thank you, and God bless America. ‘‘We must do all in our power to conquer the doubts and the fear, the ignorance and NOTE: The President spoke at 8:10 p.m. In his the greed, for today science has brought all remarks, he referred to John Kluge, chairman, the different quarters of the globe so close James Madison Council; Paul Allaire, chairman together that it is impossible to isolate them and chief executive officer, Xerox Corp.; MGySgt. one from another. Today we are faced with Michael Ryan, USMC, United States Marine the preeminent fact that if civilization is to Band; Jim Billington, Librarian of Congress.

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Interview With Jacobo Goldstein of trading partner, but does Congress share CNN Radio Noticias your view, sir? May 1, 1997 The President. I believe a majority do. I am, frankly, disappointed and surprised that Mexico and Drug Trafficking there is still so much opposition to expanding Mr. Goldstein. Mr. President, let’s start fast track. NAFTA has been a big success with Mexico. You’re going down there on for us, with Canada and with Mexico. It has Monday. The news today is that Mexico just helped the Mexican economy to grow. It has dismantled its antidrug agency and has put brought our two countries closer together. a new agency in place with new trainees. Will When Mexico had a difficult time economi- this stop the corruption that has been so cally, the United States made the loan that— rampant? I made the decision to make a loan to Mex- The President. Well, I think there’s a ico, and they paid the loan back early with good chance that it will improve things. Keep interest and a profit. And it’s working well. in mind the Mexicans have a big challenge. It’s creating more jobs for Mexico, more jobs This is not just something they—this co- for the United States. operation we’re undertaking in the antidrug And I think we would be very, very, very area from Mexico’s point of view is not pri- shortsighted if we did not extend fast track, marily for the United States. Of course, we go down and involve Chile and then eventu- want to reduce the number of illegal drugs ally complete the promise of the Summit of coming into America. Primarily, it’s for Mex- the Americas—involve the Andean nations, ico. It’s to preserve the social, political, and the MERCOSUR nations, all the nations, economic integrity of the country. Latin America, Central America, Caribbean And I think this is a very good first step. in the trade area of the Americas. That’s what I’ve had a good relationship with President I want to do, and I’m going to keep pushing Zedillo and with Mexico since I became for it. President. I’ve done everything I could do Mexico-U.S. Relations to try to make sure America is a good neigh- bor and a good partner for the future. And Mr. Goldstein. Mr. President, you placed I think this will enable us to work more close- great importance on the relations with Mex- ly together in that area. ico, personal relation between you and Presi- Mr. Goldstein. Mr. President, Mexico is dent Zedillo. And now the word is out, you’re going to have midterm elections that are going to be naming a very famous politician going to be watched throughout the world. of the other party, the Governor of Massa- And I know President Zedillo has been trying chusetts, Governor William Weld. How will to change some of old time and change the this create better relations between you and structure of his party. What are your expecta- Mexico? tions of these midterm elections? It’s the first The President. Well, if Governor Weld’s time the mayor of Mexico City is going to appointment goes through, I would expect be elected. it to greatly strengthen our relationships be- The President. I don’t know. My only ex- cause I think that they will have a lot in com- pectations are that they’ll be free and fair mon and that the three of us will all have and that they will express the will of the a good relationship, which will facilitate our Mexican people and that we will support countries growing closer together and work- that, whatever that is. ing better together. Mr. Goldstein. Will he have direct access NAFTA to you and Madeleine Albright? Mr. Goldstein. Mr. President, NAFTA, The President. Oh, absolutely. I know according to the numbers, seems to be work- him well. I mean, he is a member of the ing. Do you expect the U.S. Congress to help other party, and when he ran against Senator push NAFTA to Chile fast track? And you Kerry last year, I worked very hard for Sen- have spoken, and your people have spoken, ator Kerry. But we have a good personal rela- how important Latin America is as far as a tionship. He’s a highly intelligent man, and

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he and I are clearly on the same wavelength committed to open immigration and to hav- in terms of what we believe our policy toward ing more people here from the Americas, but Mexico and, indeed, toward all Latin Amer- we have to do it in a legal way that has some ica should be. discipline and order and integrity to it. And we will try to do it in a fair and balanced The President’s Meeting With President way. Zedillo Mr. Goldstein. Finally, Mr. President, I Mexico-U.S. Trade and NAFTA want to touch slightly the issue of human Mr. Goldstein. Mr. President, there was rights. There has been some criticism of vio- some concern in Mexico when Mexican lation of human rights in Mexico. Will the trucks were not allowed—truckers to drive subject of human rights be broached during in this country. I’m sure that issue will also the bilateral meeting, or will you deal—with come up. President Zedillo? The President. It will come up. President The President. I expect we will discuss Zedillo would bring it up if I didn’t. We everything that is out there to be discussed will—we’re trying to work that out. Our con- in our relationship. We have a very open and cerns here are basically safety concerns, and candid relationship. If he has some problems we have an obligation under NAFTA, the with the United States, he feels free to raise United States does, to permit Mexican truck- them with me. And we’ll talk through every- ers into the United States if they meet the thing I think we should talk through. standards that we apply to our people. And we’re trying to work out exactly how we de- Immigration fine that and resolve it with the Mexicans. Mr. Goldstein. Migrations—the new mi- There have been actually relatively few gration laws have created a huge stir in Mex- trade disputes. This is now a $130 billion ico and Central America, also—the issue, trade relationship. It’s a huge relationship. that will come up? And we have two or three relatively minor The President. It will come up, and it matters—[inaudible]—all but one. And I should. I would like to make three points. think we have to work very hard to try to First of all, there were provisions dealing rectify the economic harm done to the Carib- with legal immigrants tacked onto the wel- bean countries inadvertently by Congress fare reform bill that had nothing to do with when they adopted NAFTA but wouldn’t go welfare reform that I strongly opposed and along with my suggestion to give the same that will have to be significantly changed if treatment to the Caribbean countries. we are going to get a budget agreement here Mr. Goldstein. Excuse me, by Caribbean with the Republican Congress. I have told you mean Central America and the Carib- them that, and we’re working hard on it. bean Basin? Secondly, with regard to the law dealing The President. Caribbean Basin, abso- with illegal immigration, I know that there lutely. All the Caribbean Basin countries. We are some questions about that law in Latin did not—I don’t think the Congress meant America. But let me point out, the main to hurt them by passing NAFTA, but I told thing the law does is to give us extra tools them what I was afraid would happen. I to control our borders, to deal with illegal asked them to at least maintain the status immigrants in our workplaces and who come quo, so that they wouldn’t lose any ground into the criminal justice system. compared to Mexico because Mexico’s great We are going to work very hard to avoid gains have come from the labors of the Mexi- any draconian interpretation of the law that can people and from the transfer of some would lead to any kind of mass deportations production from Asia back to Mexico. They or anything of that kind. But keep in mind, never intended to take anything away from the United States admitted last year 960,000 the Central America and Caribbean coun- legal immigrants. We are now the fifth larg- tries. est Hispanic country in the world, with 22 So we have to rectify that because those million Hispanic-Americans here. So we are countries have to have a chance to grow. Oth-

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erwise, the more successful Mexico is in its were about what happened on the antidrug efforts, the more vulnerable the compound. Caribbean countries will be—especially the Caribbean, even more than Central America. Cuba They will become even more vulnerable to Mr. Goldstein. Mr. President, finally, you drug traffickers because they won’t be able know Cuba is an issue. Helms-Burton has to make a living there. So we’ve got to rectify created a rift—between Latin America and this, and I’m hoping to resolve it with this the United States because of Cuba and session of Congress. Helms-Burton. Do you visualize any cir- cumstances under which Helms-Burton Immigration could be lifted? And do you feel this will not Mr. Goldstein. Mr. President, the Central threaten your commercial relations and polit- American countries will also bring up the im- ical relations with the Latin American na- migration issue because El Salvador, Guate- tions? mala, Nicaragua, Honduras—they were all The President. Well, first of all, I think deeply affected in the eighties during the lib- the biggest problem with Helms-Burton, vis- eration or revolution, the civil wars of the a-vis Latin America, may well have been eighties. solved by the resolution we made with the The President. They—because of the European Union about the interpretation of unique status that they bore when they came Helms-Burton. And I think if we look at what into this country, they are in a position dif- happened with the European Union, what ferent from legal immigrants or plainly illegal we want the other democracies of Central immigrants. They are in a different position. America and Caribbean and South America And we’ve already had one discussion, inter- to do, is to work with us on promoting open- estingly enough, about that today. We’re try- ness, human rights, and freedom in Cuba, ing to work that out in a way that seems fair and we need to do that every way we can. and humane and balanced, and I hope we Now, under the statute, the Helms-Burton can. statute, about the only agreements I can work out are the ones that—like we worked out Hostage Situation in Peru with Europe. That law supplanted a bill that Mr. Goldstein. Mr. President, I would I liked very much, the Cuba Democracy Act, like to ask you two questions as they’re push- which gave the United States the flexibility ing me out. One has to do with Peru. You to be both more open and tougher with were very much involved, your country was, Cuba, depending on the facts. But that law with Japan during the hostage crisis, which was passed by Mr. Castro himself. He passed came to a conclusion a few days ago. the law as surely as if he’d been here voting The President. Yes. on it when he shot down those planes and Mr. Goldstein. There seems to be some killed those innocent people. rumblings about some possible human rights So we’re doing the best we can with the violations when the army barged in and saved law we have, but we all need to keep working the hostages. Do you know anything about for greater openness in Cuba. I think the only it or—— prospects for a change in the law would be The President. No. those that are, again, completely within the Mr. Goldstein. ——have you had any control of the Cuban Government and of Mr. conversations with Mr. Fujimori? Castro. I mean, if he were to evidence some The President. I do not know what the changes, then he might get some changed facts are on that. I do know that the Govern- attitudes here. But we’ve got to see what hap- ment of Peru was very patient for a long time, pens. that the people who took the hostages were terrorists who threatened their lives, and that NAFTA it was a good thing and remarkable that only Mr. Goldstein. Finally, Mr. President, one of them was—life was lost in the rescue you—during your first term, you fought very attempt. But I do not know what the facts hard for NAFTA against your own party. You

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fought very hard to save Mexico—the eco- Statement on the Interim Report of nomic bailout against people of your own the Presidential Advisory Committee party including. Will you fight as hard now on Gulf War Veterans’ Illnesses that you don’t need to run for reelection? May 1, 1997 Political considerations aside, will you fight just as hard to make sure that Latin America I appreciate the ongoing, rigorous work of has a free trade agreement? the Presidential Advisory Committee on Gulf The President. Oh, sure. War Veterans’ Illnesses, and I welcome their Mr. Goldstein. It may take about a year interim letter report. or two. And are you optimistic you can do The care and well-being of our Gulf war it by the year 2005, as they said in Miami veterans is a national duty and a national pri- at the Summit of the Americas? ority. That is why I appointed the Committee The President. Well, yes, I will fight just in May 1995, extended its mandate in Janu- ary 1997, and directed its attention in Feb- as hard. And I will certainly—there are no ruary 1997 to the recently released intel- political considerations for me one way or ligence documents concerning possible the other now. I would like to point out we chemical exposures. did get quite a large number of Democrats I am determined that my administration who supported NAFTA and that the leader- will do everything necessary to uncover all ship in both parties supported me with the the facts and act on any relevant information, Mexican loan. to provide our Gulf war veterans with the I’m quite concerned that there may have quality medical care they need, and to make been an erosion of support for the free trade sure that in any future troop deployments, concept in the Americas, not just in the we draw on lessons learned in the Gulf war Democratic Party but in the Republican to better protect the health of our troops and Party as well. And I find this surprising. Here their families. we are now at the pinnacle of our economic This interim report, like those that pre- success, political influence in the world, but ceded it, will help us meet that responsibility the only way we can exercise our political in an increasingly effective way. I have asked influence for good is to become involved with the Secretaries of Defense, Veterans Affairs, other countries. And it disappoints me when and Health and Human Services, as well as I hear Americans who seemed to be reluctant the Acting Director of Central Intelligence, to do that. I think that’s a mistake. And so to study the report and, 2 weeks from today, I’m going to try to persuade them to do the provide me their proposals for implementing right thing from my point of view, and I be- the Committee’s recommendations. lieve we’ll win. To further strengthen our search for the facts, Secretary Cohen and Acting DCI Tenet have asked former Senator Warren Budget Agreement Rudman to review the results of their ongo- Mr. Goldstein. And will you get a budget ing investigations related to Gulf war ill- agreement? Everybody in the basement nesses and to offer appropriate recommenda- asked me to ask you—— tions. Senator Rudman brings solid expertise The President. I don’t know. I hope so. and sound judgment to this important job. Mr. Goldstein. Thank you, sir. I am confident he will assist the Department of Defense and the Central Intelligence Agency in ensuring their investigations are NOTE: The interview began at 11:42 a.m. in the thorough and will also enhance our ability Oval Office at the White House. In his remarks, to integrate Gulf war intelligence ‘‘lessons the President referred to President Ernesto learned’’ into our future planning. Zedillo of Mexico; President Alberto Fujimori of I am grateful for the PAC’s dedication and Peru; and President Fidel Castro of Cuba. A tape was not available for verification of the content persistence, and look forward to their contin- of this interview. ued, indispensable efforts to make sure no stone is left unturned on behalf of America’s

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Gulf war veterans. We will not rest in our Older Americans deserve our respect and determination to find the answers our service support for they have worked diligently in men and women need and ensure that they so many ways to enrich and preserve the way receive the care and benefits they deserve. of life we all enjoy. Our senior citizens have woven the fabric of our Nation to exemplify the values and beliefs that have made our Proclamation 6996—Older country great. Americans Month, 1997 Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, May 1, 1997 President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by By the President of the United States the Constitution and laws of the United of America States, do hereby proclaim May 1997 as Older Americans Month. I call upon Govern- A Proclamation ment officials, businesses, communities, vol- Each year we set aside the month of May unteers, educators, and all the people of the as a special time to pay tribute to older Amer- United States to honor our older Americans icans and to acknowledge their many con- and acknowledge the important contribu- tributions to our national life. For the better tions made by their caregivers, this month part of this century, through tough times and and throughout the year. good times, these Americans have raised In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set families, strengthened our economy, de- my hand this first day of May, in the year fended our Nation, and reaffirmed our deep- of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety- est values. All of us who are heirs to their seven, and of the Independence of the Unit- service and sacrifice owe them a profound ed States of America the two hundred and debt of gratitude. twenty-first. The theme of this year’s observance, William J. Clinton ‘‘Caregiving: Compassion in Action,’’ re- minds us of one of the most important ways [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, in which we can repay that debt. Each day 10:56 a.m., May 2, 1997] across America, some 22 million caregivers NOTE: This proclamation was published in the and volunteers dedicate themselves to im- Federal Register on May 5. proving the qualify of life for older family members, friends, and neighbors. By provid- ing personal care, housekeeping, transpor- Proclamation 6997—Loyalty Day, tation, and innumerable other services and 1997 assistance, these caregivers enable many May 1, 1997 older Americans to remain in their own homes and communities, maintaining a pre- By the President of the United States cious measure of dignity and independence. of America As America’s population of older Ameri- cans continues to grow in number, we will A Proclamation have an even greater need to call on the skills Each year, Americans dedicate the first and compassion of caregivers. In keeping day of May to formally acknowledge our love with the spirit of service that is sweeping for this great land and our loyalty to the prin- across our Nation today, I ask that all Ameri- ciples of freedom and equality on which our cans—every day, but especially during Older Nation was founded. This love and loyalty Americans Month—reach out to an older cannot be mandated or legislated; rather, person in need, sharing time, talents, and at- these traits spring freely from our hearts and tention with someone who has already shared minds. so much with us. By putting our compassion Looking back across the centuries, we rec- in action to serve our older citizens, we can ognize that each generation of Americans has build a more promising future for all our peo- been called upon to express its love and loy- ple. alty in a unique way. Our founders, defying

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the forces of tyranny, solemnly pledged their In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set lives and futures to defend the new Nation my hand this first day of May, in the year they had created, a Nation born of reverence of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety- for human rights and the principle of self- seven, and of the Independence of the Unit- determination. Less than a century later, an- ed States of America the two hundred and other generation of Americans spilled its twenty-first. blood to preserve the unity of our Nation William J. Clinton and to ensure that America lived up to its ideals of freedom, justice, and equality. [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, The challenges of our own century have 10:55 a.m., May 2, 1997] called for an extraordinary measure of devo- NOTE: This proclamation was published in the tion from millions of our citizens. Through Federal Register on May 5. two devastating world wars and the decades of the cold war, Americans laid down their lives for love of country and to defend de- Remarks at a Democratic National mocracy, advance human rights, and oppose Committee Gala the specter of oppression. May 1, 1997 Today we are blessed to be living in a time of unprecedented peace and possibility, Thank you very much. Mr. Vice President, when the ideals of democracy and human thank you for that overly generous introduc- dignity so eloquently articulated by our tion. I loved every word of it. [Laughter] That founders have been widely embraced by na- 5 minutes was the best 5 minutes I ever lost tions in our own hemisphere and around the in my Presidency. He hasn’t been the same world. But we have fresh opportunities to person since. prove our love and loyalty to America. The I want to thank Tipper and Al and Hillary, challenge for our generation is to realize the all of them in their various ways for being promise of our Nation: to be a strong and unique parts of our rather unique team. I steady influence for peace and freedom want to thank Tommy Lee Jones for coming across the globe; to be a powerful voice for here tonight and for giving that fine speech human rights wherever they are silenced; to and being loyal to his old friend Al Gore. live up to America’s promise of justice, equal- You know, I’m not as mobile as I normally ity, and opportunity by ensuring that all of am, and I’ve been in this big old awkward our people have the tools and encourage- chair, and I heard Tommy Lee’s voice sort ment they need to meet their God-given po- of booming out, you know, and I couldn’t tential. decide whether I was the fugitive and I ought The Congress, by Public Law 85–529, has to be on the run, whether I was Batman and designated May 1 of each year as ‘‘Loyalty I should duck—I didn’t know what I should Day.’’ Let us, on this day, remember the con- do. [Laughter] You know, I really enjoyed tributions of the many courageous Americans watching Tommy Lee and Al’s friendship; who have gone before us, and let us keep they have a lot in common. They sort of like faith with them by reaffirming our love for to shoot the bull, and when they get around and loyalty to this Nation they sustained with each other—they’ve been friends so long, their service and sacrifice. their accents get thicker, you know. And the Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, stories get more embellished. Just like any President of the United States of America, other two rednecks from Harvard you ever do hereby proclaim May 1, 1997, as Loyalty met. [Laughter] Day. I urge all Americans to recall, on this I want to thank our distinguished leaders, day, the valor and selflessness of all those Governor Romer and Steve Grossman, and who made this Nation so worthy of our love the dinner chairs, Abe Pollin, Tommy Boggs, and loyalty. I call upon Government officials Morty Barr, Janice Griffin, Bob Johnson. to display the flag of the United States and Thank you, Alan Solomont and Dan Dudko to participate in patriotic activities in support and Carol Pensky. Thanks to the entertain- of this national observance. ers. But I’d like to ask you all to give a special

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hand to our dinner chairs—they worked like against it and said it was crazy and it would crazy to bring this off for us tonight and I never work. Well, sooner or later, the postur- thank them for it very much. ing has to not count nearly as much as the I won’t take long tonight, but I want to results. We’ve had a record number of new just reinforce a couple of things the Vice jobs, a record number of new businesses. We President said. Tomorrow, we’re going to have the strongest, healthiest economy in 30 dedicate this memorial to Franklin Roo- years, and wages are going up and inequality sevelt, a man who believed in bold, persistent in this country is going down among working experimentation; a man who became Presi- families for the first time in over 20 years. dent at the country’s lowest ebb in this cen- And you should be proud of that because tury and whose faith and optimism and deter- you made it happen. I’m proud of it, and mination carried us a very long way. When I want you to be proud of it. Al Gore and I sought your support and the I had this idea that crime was not a politi- votes of the American people in 1992, we cal football that you should position yourself were, thankfully, in nowhere near that much around in Washington with a bunch of rhet- trouble. But it was clear that we were in the oric, that it really would make a difference midst of drift and division and deadlock. It if we put community policing back into was clear that we were going through a pe- America’s streets, and we put more police riod of profound change, moving into a new on the street. Not just Dwayne and Eddie, century, a new millennium, and a new way the two that Al put when he was President, of living together, and that we had, as a na- but—[laughter]—99,998 more. And we’re tion, no clear strategy to pursue. well on the way. And I had a simple idea that I wanted my And I thought it was silly to say that an daughter and her children to grow up in an American citizen couldn’t favor the right of America in the 21st century where everyone sports people and hunters to use their weap- willing to work for it had opportunity; where ons and not be for sensible restraints on gun all citizens recognize that there were no ownership and acquisition by criminals, and rights without responsibility; where we cher- dangerous people and people who were in- ish our diversity, instead of being torn asun- competent should not have them. I thought der by it; and we grew together, closer as that was wrong. one America; and where we embrace the When we passed the crime bill, they said, world, instead of running away from it; and ‘‘Well, it didn’t fit into anybody’s little box.’’ we’re glad to be still the leading force for All I know is crime is still going down every peace and freedom and prosperity. That is year, there are more police on the street, what I want, that is what I wanted, and that America is a safer place today because we is what we are going to have in the 21st cen- were interested in what would work to fulfill tury, thanks to you and millions of Americans our values. And if people are not secure in like you all across this country. America, they are not fully free. We were And I thought to do it, we would have to right, and you should be proud of that. I want experiment. I had some ideas that people you to be proud of it. said were nutty, and they weren’t appro- Well, I could go through a lot of other is- priately pure. They were not perfectly liberal sues. I’m proud of what we did in Haiti and or perfectly conservative. I had this crazy Bosnia and the Middle East and Northern idea that you could reduce the deficit and Ireland. I’m proud of the way we reached still increase investment in people, in edu- out to Russia and to expand NATO. I’m cation; that you could actually reduce the size proud of the fact that we said we are going of Government but put more money into the forward as one country, and we started the things people needed; that you could actually AmeriCorps program, to give young people help business and labor; that you could actu- a chance to serve their country and earn ally grow the economy and preserve and even some money to go to college. improve the environment. And as I look back on it, I would have Now, we started this economic program, to say that, thanks to all those things and the and all of our friends in the other party voted family and medical leave law, the initiative

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on tobacco, and a lot of other things, this the Earth. We are moving in the right direc- country has more opportunity, more respon- tion. sibility, a closer-knit community, and is What I want to say to you tonight in closing stronger in the world in its leadership role are two brief points: First of all, it bothers than it would have been if we’d stayed the me that members of both parties, at this mo- course that was dominant in 1992. You were ment of America’s greatest influence, most right, and you should be proud of it—and profound economic and social renovation, a whole lot better off than we’d have been when we are in the greatest position of all if the ‘‘Contract With America’’ had not been to try to bring the people of the world to- stopped in 1995. gether in economic cooperation and com- Now, in the first hundred days of this ad- petition, advancing democracy and human ministration, Democrats and Republicans are rights, finding ways globally to preserve our working in good faith in the hope that we little planet’s environment—that people in can reach a budget agreement. But what we both parties somehow feel afraid of the fu- want is simple and clear: We want to balance ture and afraid of the rest of the world, and the budget and invest more in education, ex- don’t want to eagerly embrace it. tend health care to children. Yes, we didn’t If you believe for a moment that we can win the health care fight, but Franklin Roo- fulfill the legacy of Franklin Roosevelt and sevelt was for experimentation. I’m glad I continue to lead the world by hunkering tried to give the hard-working families in this down, withdrawing, turning our backs on a country health insurance. I’m not sorry I waiting world that longs for what we now al- tried to do that. I think we were right to try, most take for granted, that is wrong. The and we ought to at least give it to the children Democratic Party at the end of World War of America in this term. We can do that. II under Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Tru- We ought to continue to clean up the envi- man said to the rest of the world, ‘‘Come ronment. Now that we’re requiring people on, we’ll all get together and go forward to- on welfare who are able-bodied to go to gether,’’ and I want you to be a part of that work, we ought to make darn sure the jobs kind of Democratic Party for the 21st cen- are there for them. And we ought to stop tury. the punishment, unjust, of legal immigrants And the last thing I want to say is that in this country who work hard and do their Franklin Roosevelt was an awfully good poli- part to make our country strong. tician. After all, he managed to get himself We’ve got that kind of budget, and I hope elected 4 times. He managed to always look we’ve got that kind of budget negotiations happy and strong and confident no matter going. We’ve got 20 percent of the country what personal pain he might have endured. committed already in the first 100 days to And he was marvelously successful because embracing national standards for learning, he liked people and he liked politics. and for the first time ever in America, having And I hope you’re here tonight because an examination of fourth and eighth graders you like politics. And I hope you never stop in reading and math. We have got hundreds liking politics. And I wish that we could have of businesses—hundreds and hundreds— had this event tonight in the Lincoln Bed- committed to helping us move a million peo- room, but we did not have enough coffee ple from welfare to work. in the White House. [Laughter] We had Hillary’s conference on early Now, the next time somebody asks you childhood and the brain and the magnificent why you’re helping us, tell them the stories summit of service in Philadelphia last week- I told you tonight and think about the people end. That embodies what I think America you know whose lives have been changed by is at its best, putting people first, putting our what we have done in moving the AIDS country’s future first, not taking cheap shots. drugs more rapidly to market, in coming out And after a long fight, we also ratified the for the family leave law, in making college Chemical Weapons Convention, which will more affordable for people, in creating all take us a long way toward eradicating the these jobs to give people the chance to work threat of chemical weapons from the face of in dignity, and having the biggest drop in

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welfare rolls in the history of the country. at the sea of eager faces thinking about the Now, you think about that. All that was made future. ‘‘Don’t stop thinking about tomor- possible by the American political system. row.’’ [Laughter] And I was looking at Billy I am proud of you. I want you to be proud Baldwin, and then when Al said he was hand- of you. And I want you to get up tomorrow some and articulate and committed—— and say, ‘‘I’m glad I was part of that. America The Vice President. Suave. is better than it was four years ago. It’s going The President. Suave. [Laughter] to be better four years from now. And the The Vice President. Charming. most important thing is my grandchildren The President. Charming. [Laughter] will live in a 21st century that is worthy of What I was thinking is ‘‘and young,’’ and I American’s glorious past.’’ really resent it. [Laughter] Thank you, and God bless you all. And Tracy and her band, I’m glad they were here, and I thank them for performing NOTE: The President spoke at 9:20 p.m. at the and for being in such good humor tonight. D.C. Armory. In his remarks, he referred to actor I hope we all are. But I really appreciate— Tommy Lee Jones; Gov. Roy Romer of Colorado, general chair, Steve Grossman, national chair, I want to tell you a story about Billy Baldwin. Alan D. Solomont, national finance chair, Carol He also came to New York once during the Pensky, treasurer, Democratic National Commit- campaign and introduced us at an event— tee; Abe Pollin, owner of the NBA Washington you may have been there or—[laughter]— Bullets and the NHL Washington Capitals; or you’re just stirred by the very thought of Tommy Boggs, attorney; Dan Dutko, chair, Vic- it. [Laughter] He does have that effect on tory Fund; Morton Bahr, international president, some people. [Laughter] And he actually— Communications Workers of America; Janice I mean, I felt like I should write him an ex- Griffin, Vice President, Prudential; and Robert L. cused absence because he missed his anni- Johnson, chairman and chief executive officer, versary to be there with us one night, because BET Holdings, Inc. he cared so much—— Remarks to the Saxophone Club Audience members. Ah-h-h. May 1, 1997 The President. Well, he celebrated it the next day. [Laughter] That’s something you The President. I was sitting there ponder- can do when you’re young. You think there ing—standing there pondering—[laugh- will always be a next day, so it’s good. But ter]—giving the Vice President a standing the thing that struck me about that was that ovation with my stiff leg—[laughter]—how here is this man who is doing this—who does he had so much energy at 10:30 at night. not have to do this—because he believes it. [Laughter] And then I realized, well, he is And I saw his brother the other night, and a younger man. [Laughter] he came up and started talking to me about Let me say to all of you who helped to a whole other set of issues. And I thought, make this evening possible tonight, I thank just what he said tonight in his remarkable you, and I thank Tipper and Al for being speech—I thought those guys must have had there with Hillary and me for the last 4 years a remarkable upbringing because they’re not and 2 months—not only politically but also just going off and living with their money personally, in a remarkable and perhaps and living with the stars and forgetting about unique way. I thank the Vice President for everybody else in this country. And they care being the most important adviser I could about things that affect all of us, and some- have on a whole range of issues. There’s very how they understand that their identity is little he doesn’t know a lot about, and now tied up with all of us. he knows more than he even did when he And if I could just make one very brief showed up here. [Laughter] And this country point tonight about what this whole thing is is much better off because Al Gore’s been about. I really believe that the significant the Vice President of the United States. choice that we have to make as a people now When Tipper and Al and Hillary were talk- on the edge of this new millennium is really ing, I thought to myself, I love these Saxo- what we think it means to be an American phone Club events, and I love to look out and what we think it means to be a member

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of a community and who is in our commu- talents will not only strengthen their families nity. And so much of what we have done and their own lives and enrich their own that really mattered was rooted in my convic- lives, it will make their countries better part- tion—our conviction, if you will—that none ners for us in the years ahead and make our of us can be completely fulfilled individually future better. unless we are connected to others and unless And that’s why—we fought for things like we have respect for them, unless we have the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, the concern for them, and unless we are pre- Employment Nondiscrimination Act, the pared to take some steps to make sure that mending but not ending affirmative action. everybody has a chance to live up to their All these things are a way of trying to define God-given capacities and that we conserve, an American community in a way that would preserve, and protect those things that we say, you can be a part of our community if share in common, whether its a common en- you share our values and you work hard and vironment or the public safety. you’re responsible and you want to be a part And that’s what I want you to think about. of something that’s good. Because when you hear all these debates— This whole world today is absolutely being you go back and replay the debates, the polit- tormented by people who can’t bear the ical debates of the last 15 years, you’ll see thought of someone else’s existence or happi- that when you strip it all away, it’s really ness is because they’re different from them. about whether you believe that we’re out I mean, this whole world is being tormented there on our own and a good thing or wheth- by people who believe that their lives only er you believe that by definition, to live in make sense if they’re kicking somebody else’s this country at this time and to live in this brains out or who believe that if they don’t world at this time means that you have to kick somebody else’s brains out, they will be recognize communities and you have to want killed in turn or they will be oppressed in to be a part of them, embrace them, and turn, so they have to do it as a defensive want to raise your children in a better one. mechanism. And if you think about it, the reason I want Now, if you think about the whole world, to balance the budget is I don’t want this here we are—we’re talking about how we can young man here to have to worry about that. connect every school and library in America I want him to have a new set of problems. to the Internet. Last night, I went to the I mean, it’s endemic to human nature. I can’t dedication of the Thomas Jefferson Building make all the problems go away for the future, at the Library of Congress, and we talked but at least we can give you a new set of about how we can share all these treasures problems. [Laughter] And the reason I want with kids all over the world. And yet we are to do it in a way that honors the integrity still plagued by almost primitive impulses, of our health care programs is because I don’t making us less than we ought to be, and by want to abandon the elderly and the disabled. people who almost seek to make a moral vir- And the reason that I believe in education tue out of our walking away from each other. is that I think it’s the greatest gift we can So if you ask me what it is that’s sort of give to people now, not only the young but that central idea that I think will determine the not so young who have to learn for a what America will look like 50 years from lifetime. now, it is whether or not we really do believe But I think it all comes back to us. When we are part of a community, that we are one Hillary goes around the world and has these Nation under God, that we are one world meetings in Africa and Latin America and under God, that we have—we are entitled Beijing and everyplace—South Asia—and to individual rights but we have common re- talks to these little groups of women and sponsibilities and we’ll be a whole lot happier girls—and the girls may not even get to go if we just recognize them. to college, or get to go to high school, get And I want you to be proud of what we’ve to go to grade school, maybe have lived in done, and I want you to be proud of what places where girls and women are still op- we’re doing, and I want you to be proud of pressed—I realize that the liberation of their where we’re going. And if all goes well, when

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these 8 years are over, this country will start In late 1992, when we were putting this a new century and a new millennium a lot economic policy together in its final details, better than it was 8 years ago but, more im- we were determined to move away from the portantly, with a philosophy, an attitude, a failed policies of trickle-down economics to way of looking at living together that will a policy of invest and grow; to bring the defi- carry us a very long way and make the 21st cit down but to invest more in our people’s century more peaceful, more prosperous, education and training and technology and more happy than the 20th, yet still very much science; and to expand trade dramatically so an American century. that we could create new jobs at higher That’s what I want for you and why I’m wages. This strategy is working. We know glad you’re here. now that the deficit will be down, probably Thank you, and God bless you all. by more than two-thirds what it was when NOTE: The President spoke at 10:30 p.m. at the I took office by the end of this year. Hyatt Regency Hotel. In his remarks, he referred With 4.9 percent unemployment, we know to actors Billy and Alec Baldwin and musician what works. This strategy works. We need Tracy Bonham. to finish the job now. We need to balance the budget while continuing to invest in our Remarks on Departure for the people and in our future. I’ve been working hard with the leaders of Congress to do just Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial that. I am hopeful that we can get an agree- Dedication Ceremony ment that will balance the budget and con- May 2, 1997 tinue our commitments to invest in education The Economy and in the health care of our children and in environment and in technology. I am The President. Good morning. As all of hopeful that we can do this in a way that you know, I’m on my way to the dedication preserves, enhances, reforms Medicare and of our Nation’s memorial to President Frank- protects Medicaid, and deals with the prob- lin Roosevelt. It will be a celebration of our lems of legal immigrants, which I feel so century’s greatest leader, someone whose strongly about, and also gives appropriate but faith in our country and our people helped us to conquer challenges in a very difficult disciplined tax relief. time. Today, if we have the same faith and The one thing I am determined to do is confidence in ourselves, we can clearly move to keep on this economic course which has into the 21st century stronger and more con- brought us to the lowest unemployment rate fident, with the American dream alive, with in 24 years. Therefore, we have to be very the American community more united, with careful not to set conditions in motion which America’s leadership in the world secure. could explode the deficit again because of Before I go, I want to comment on the the way the tax cut is written or other provi- very good news we have received on the sions are written after this budget period economy today and what it means for our ends. present work in Washington. The new em- So we changed the course of the Nation. ployment report has just been issued. I’m This is profoundly important. And we now pleased to report that the unemployment have to finish the job, not undo it. I’m very rate has dropped to 4.9 percent; 4.9 percent optimistic. I’m very hopeful. We’ve had good is the lowest it has been in 24 years. conversations late last night and early this Our economy has now created over 12 mil- morning. But I want to make it clear that lion jobs since the beginning of 1993. Infla- we’re moving in the right direction, and this tion remains low. Our economy is now the budget agreement must continue that move- strongest it has been in a generation. This ment, not reverse it, not undermine it but is a great tribute to the efforts of the Amer- continue it and give more Americans the ican people and to the validity of the new chance to participate in the prosperity that economic policy that we brought here in our Nation is enjoying. 1993. Thank you very much.

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Q. Mr. President, do you think you’ll have as a tribute to Franklin Roosevelt, to Elea- a budget deal today? nor, and to the remarkable triumphs of their The Vice President. We’re late for the generation. dedication, so questions later. President Roosevelt said—[applause]— thank you. President Roosevelt said, ‘‘We NOTE: The President spoke at 9:40 a.m. on the have faith that future generations will know South Lawn at the White House. that here, in the middle of the 20th century, there came a time when men of goodwill Remarks at the Dedication of the found a way to unite and produce and fight Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial to destroy the forces of ignorance and intol- May 2, 1997 erance and slavery and war.’’ This memorial will be the embodiment of FDR’s faith, for Thank you very much Senator Inouye; it will ensure that all future generations will Senator Hatfield; Your Highness; my long- know. It will ensure that they will all see the time friend David Roosevelt and the mem- ‘‘happy warrior’’ keeping America’s ren- bers of the Roosevelt family; Mr. Vice Presi- dezvous with destiny. dent; to all those who have worked to make As we stand at the dawn of a bright new this day a reality. Let me begin by saying century, this memorial will encourage us, re- to Senator Inouye and Senator Hatfield, the minding us that whenever America acts with United States proudly accepts the Franklin certainty of purpose and FDR’s famous flexi- Delano Roosevelt Memorial. bility of mind, we have always been more Fittingly, this is the first occasion of its than equal to whatever challenges we face. kind in more than 50 years. The last time Winston Churchill said that President the American people gathered near here was Roosevelt’s life was one of the commanding in 1943 when President Franklin Roosevelt events in human history. He came from privi- dedicated the memorial to Thomas Jefferson. lege, but he understood the aspirations of Today we honor the greatest President of this farmers and factory workers and forgotten great American century. Americans. He electrified the farms and hol- As has been said, FDR actually wanted no lows, but even more important, he electrified memorial. For years, none seemed necessary, the Nation, instilling confidence with every for two reasons. First, the America he built tilt of his head and boom of his laugh. His was a memorial all around us. From the was an open, American spirit with a fine Golden Gate Bridge to the Grand Coulee sense for the possible and a keen apprecia- Dam, from Social Security to honest financial tion of the art of leadership. He was a master markets, from an America that has remained politician and a magnificent Commander in the world’s indispensable nation to our Chief. shared conviction that all Americans must And his partner was also magnificent. El- make our journey together, Roosevelt was all eanor Roosevelt was his eyes and his ears, around us. Second, though many of us never going places he could not go to see things lived under his leadership, many who did are he would never see to come back and tell still around, and we have all heard about him him how things actually were. And her re- from our parents or grandparents—some of ports were formed as words in his speeches us, as we pass by WPA or CCC projects along that touched little people all across America country roads, some of us as we looked at who could not imagine that the President of the old radios that our parents and grand- the United States knew how they lived and parents kept and heard stories about the fire- cared about them. She was his conscience side chats and how the people felt. and our Nation’s conscience. Today he is still very real to millions upon Franklin Roosevelt’s mission was to millions of Americans, inspiring us, urging us change America to preserve its ancient vir- on. But the world turns, and memories fade. tues in the face of new and unprecedented And now, more than a half-century after he challenges. That is, after all, America’s mis- left us, it is right that we go a little beyond sion in all times of change and difficulty. The his stated wishes and dedicate this memorial depth and sweep of it was unprecedented

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when FDR asked a shaken nation to put its raising of sights for the dispossessed in Amer- confidence in him. But he had no doubt of ica that has continued down to the present the outcome. day. Listen to what he said in September 1932, It was that faith in his own extraordinary shortly before he was elected for the first potential that enabled him to guide his coun- time. He proclaimed his faith: ‘‘Faith in try from a wheelchair. And from that wheel- America, faith in our tradition of personal re- chair and a few halting steps, leaning on his sponsibility, faith in our institutions, faith in son’s arms or those of trusted aides, he lifted ourselves demanded we recognize the new a great people back to their feet and set terms of an old social contract. New condi- America to march again toward its destiny. tions imposed new requirements upon gov- He said over and over again in different ernment and upon those who conduct gov- ways that we had only to fear fear itself. We ernment.’’ That was his faith. He lived it, and did not have to be afraid of pain or adversity we are here as a result. or failure, for all those could be overcome. With that faith, he forged a strong and He knew that, of course, because that is ex- unapologetic Government, determined to actly what he did. And with his faith and the tame the savage cycles of boom and bust, power of this example, we did conquer them able to meet the national challenges too big all, depression, war, and doubt. for families and individuals to meet on their Now we see that faith again alive in Amer- own. And when he restored dignity to old ica. We are grateful beyond measure for our age, when he helped millions to keep their own unprecedented prosperity. But we must farms or own their homes, when he provided remember the source of that faith. And the simple opportunity to go to work in the again, let me say to Senator Inouye and oth- morning to millions, he was proving that the ers, by showing President Roosevelt as he American dream was not a distant glimmer was, we show the world that we have faith but something every American could grasp. that in America you are measured for what And then that faith of his infused all of his you are and what you have achieved, not for countrymen. what you have lost. And we encourage all With that faith, he inspired millions of or- who face their difficulties and overcome dinary Americans to take responsibility for them not to give in to fear, but to believe one another, doing their part, in his words, in their possibilities. through the National Recovery Administra- And now, again, we need the faith of tion, reclaiming nature through the Civilian Franklin Roosevelt in an entirely different Conservation Corps, gathering scrap, giving time, but still no ordinary time, for in this up nylons, and eventually storming the time, new livelihoods demand new skills. We beaches at Normandy and Okinawa and have to fight against the enormous, destruc- Anzio. tive influences that still grip the lives of too With that faith, he committed our Nation many of our young people. We must struggle to lead the world, first as the arsenal of de- to make our rich racial, ethnic, and religious mocracy and then at the head of the great diversity a source of strength and unity when crusade to free the world from tyranny. Be- such differences are the undoing of millions fore the war began, the four freedoms set and millions around the world. And we must the foundation for the future and made it fight against that nagging old doubt. clear to the whole world that America’s goal It is a strange irony of our time that here, was not domination, but a dominion of free- at the moment of our greatest prosperity and dom in a world at peace. progress in so many years—in 1932, one in With that faith, as the war neared an end four Americans was out of work; this morning he would never see, he traced the very archi- we learned that fewer than one in 20 Ameri- tecture of our future, from the GI bill to the cans are out of work for the first time in more United Nations. Faith in the extraordinary than two decades. And at this time, where potential of ordinary people sparked not only the pinnacle that Roosevelt hoped America our victory over war, depression, and doubt, would achieve in our influence and power but it began the opening of doors and the has come to pass, we still, strangely, fight bat-

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tles with doubts, doubts that he would treat become more American, become more like with great impatience and disdain, doubts him, be infused with his strong and active that lead some urge us to pull back from the faith. world at the very first time since Roosevelt’s God bless you, god bless America, and may time when we actually can realize his vision God always bless the memory of Franklin of world peace and world prosperity and the Delano Roosevelt. dominance of the ideals for which he gave his life. NOTE: The President spoke at 10:50 a.m. at the Let us honor his vision not only with this memorial. In his remarks, he referred to David memorial today, but by acting in the way he B. Roosevelt, cochair, FDR Memorial Capital would tell us to act if he were standing here Campaign; and Princess Margriet of The Nether- giving this speech, on his braces, looking at lands, President Roosevelt’s goddaughter. us and smiling at us and telling us we know what we have to do. We are Americans. We must have faith, we must not be afraid, and we must lead. The great legacy of Roosevelt is a vision Digest of Other and a challenge—not a set of specific pro- White House Announcements grams but a set of commitments—the duty we owe to ourselves, to one another, to our beloved Nation, and increasingly, to our fel- The following list includes the President’s public low travelers on this small planet. schedule and other items of general interest an- Now we are surrounded by the monu- nounced by the Office of the Press Secretary and not included elsewhere in this issue. ments to the leaders who built our democ- racy: Washington, who launched our great experiment and created our Republic; Jeffer- April 26 son, who enshrined forever our creed that The White House announced that the it is self-evident that we are all created equal, President asked U.S. Representative to the with unalienable rights to life, liberty, and United Nations Bill Richardson to lead a spe- the pursuit of happiness; Lincoln, who gave cial mission to Zaire. his life to preserve Mr. Washington’s Repub- lic and to make real Mr. Jefferson’s words; and now, Franklin Roosevelt, who saved April 27 freedom from tyranny, who restored our Re- In the morning, the President and Hillary public, who defined Mr. Jefferson’s creed to Clinton traveled to Philadelphia, PA. include freedom from want and fear. Today, before the pantheon of our democracy, let April 28 us resolve to honor them all by shepherding In the evening, the President and Hillary their legacy into a new century, into a new Clinton returned to Washington, DC. millennium. Our mission is to prepare America for the April 29 time to come, to write a new chapter of our The President announced his intention to history, inspired always by the greatest nominate Robert L. Mallett for the position source of hope in our history. Thomas Jeffer- of Deputy Secretary of Commerce. son wrote the words, but Franklin Roosevelt The President announced his intention to lived them out every day. Today I ask you appoint Ray C. Anderson as cochair of the to remember what he was writing at Warm President’s Council on Sustainable Develop- Springs when he died, that last speech: ‘‘The ment. only limit to our realization of tomorrow will The President announced his intention to be our doubts of today. Let us move forward appoint William A. Bible, Robert Wayne with strong and active faith.’’ Loescher, and Richard Carl Leone as mem- My fellow Americans, every time you think bers of the National Gambling Impact Study of Franklin Roosevelt, put aside your doubts, Commission.

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April 30 items nor covered by entries in the Digest of In the morning, the President met with Other White House Announcements. Vice Premier and Minister of Foreign Affairs Qian Qechan of China in the Oval Office. Released April 26 The White House announced that the President and Hillary Clinton announced Statement by Press Secretary Mike McCurry that their daughter Chelsea will enter Stan- on U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations ford University this fall as a member of the Bill Richardson’s mission to Zaire class of 2001. Released April 27 May 1 Transcript of remarks by Hillary Clinton, In the afternoon, the President partici- President George Bush, and Barbara Bush pated in a swearing-in ceremony in the Oval on presenting the President’s Service Awards Office for Secretary of Labor Alexis M. Her- in Philadelphia, PA man. The White House announced that the Transcript of a press briefing by Domestic President will issue a formal apology to the Policy Council Director Bruce Reed, Wel- 14 surviving members of the original fare to Work Foundation President Eli Segal, Tuskegee Experiment in a Rose Garden and Diane Fortuna on the President’s volun- ceremony on May 16. teer service initiatives Released April 28 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- retary Mike McCurry and Domestic Policy Nominations Council Director Bruce Reed on the Presi- Submitted to the Senate dent’s volunteer service initiatives Transcript of remarks by President Gerald The following list does not include promotions of Ford, President George Bush, President members of the Uniformed Services, nominations Jimmy Carter, General Colin Powell, Mrs. to the Service Academies, or nominations of For- Nancy Reagan, and Vice President Al Gore eign Service officers. at the Presidents’ Summit for America’s Fu- ture luncheon in Philadelphia, PA Submitted April 28 Transcript of remarks by President Gerald Michael J. Armstrong, Ford and President George Bush at the of Colorado, to be an Associate Director of Presidents’ Summit for America’s Future the Federal Emergency Management Agen- luncheon in Philadelphia, PA cy, vice Richard Thomas Moore, resigned. Transcript of remarks by the First Lady to students, teachers, parents, and AmeriCorps Edward William Gnehm, Jr., volunteers in Philadelphia, PA of Georgia, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor, Released April 29 to be Director General of the Foreign Serv- ice, vice Anthony Cecil Eden Quainton. Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- retary Mike McCurry Released April 30 Transcript of a press briefing by Press Sec- Checklist retary Mike McCurry of White House Press Releases Statement by Press Secretary Mike McCurry on Deputy National Security Adviser James The following list contains releases of the Office Steinberg’s meeting with U.N. High Com- of the Press Secretary that are neither printed as missioner for Refugees Sadako Ogata

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Released May 1 Released May 2 Transcript of press briefing by Press Sec- Statement by Press Secretary Mike McCurry retary Mike McCurry on legal cooperation with Hong Kong Transcript of a press briefing by the Presi- Transcript of a press briefing by National Se- dent’s budget team on the budget agreement curity Adviser Samuel Berger, Treasury Sec- retary Robert Rubin, Special Envoy to the Americas Thomas F. (Mack) McLarty, and National Drug Control Policy Director Barry McCaffrey on the President’s visit to Latin Acts Approved America by the President Statement by Counsel to the President Charles F.C. Ruff on the decision of the Approved April 30 Eighth Circuit Court concerning White H.R. 1003 / Public Law 105–12 House attorney-client privilege protections Assisted Suicide Funding Restriction Act of 1997

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