Comments Of Senator Patrick Leahy
About Senator Lott’s Remarks
At Senator Thurmond’s Birthday Party
Dec. 11, 2002

“Senator Lott’s apology for his comments misses the mark.  He should not apologize ‘to anyone who was offended.’  His duty is to explain why every American, regardless of age, race or region, should have been offended by what he said.  

“One of the most important duties that today’s generation of political leaders owes every younger American is to explain what all the fuss is about.

“America today is only two or three generations and only four decades removed from a set of racially divisive and unjust laws that many younger Americans cannot even imagine.  Racial segregation was the heart of the political platform that Senator Lott seemingly endorsed last week and before.  Racial segregation and discrimination have been a malignancy that our nation has struggled to overcome.  Many gave their lives in helping to overcome those injustices.  A few short decades ago, African Americans by law and by practice were held down as second-class citizens, barred from “white” hotels, restaurants, universities, and even drinking fountains.  It was a time of lynchings and beatings and officially sanctioned intimidation.  Even the most sacred right of American citizenship – the right to vote – was denied  millions of Americans.

“We all have the obligation to understand and learn from our nation’s history, and today’s political leaders of both parties can help not only by condemning the harm and hurtfulness of Senator Lott’s comments but also by explaining their significance to younger generations.”

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