Facebook Twitter Email
AUGUST 15, 2000

Addressing the nation in his last major political speech, President Bill Clinton told delegates of the Democratic National Convention that America is more wealthy, secure, healthy, clean, and free because of his administration.

"Are we going to keep this progress and prosperity going?" Clinton asked. "Yes, we are. But, my friends ... we can't take our future for granted."

Reciting a history of the state of the nation before he took over eight years ago, Clinton cited the many changes which have occurred since he became President. Clinton promised a continuation of America's prosperity and progess if Democratic candidates Al Gore and Joe Lieberman are elected by voters in November.

Part of that good fortune extends Native Americans, said Clinton. Like retired General Colin Powell did on his opening night speech during the GOP convention, Clinton spoke of racial and ethnic inclusion, but offered up more concrete proof of successes he hopes voters in Indian Country and beyond will credit to the Democrats.

"This year alone ... [the administration's] empowerment zone tax credits are bringing new businesses and new jobs to our hardest pressed communities from the inner-cities to the Appalachia to the Mississippi Delta to our Native American reservations," said Clinton.

Last year, Clinton became the first head of state to visit Indian Country since Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1936. Clinton visited the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota to drum up support for an initiative bringing public and private investment to the Lakota Nation and to Indian Country as a whole.

Although criticized by suspended tribal President Harold Salway as too rosy, a one-year report on conditions on the reservation showed some progress made in housing, education, and corporate investment.

Clinton continued his support of Indian Country this year with his visit to the Navajo Nation in order to emphasize the digital divide. Clinton also promised to work for tribes and Native people even after he leaves office.

The convention continues tomorrow as the Reverend Jesse Jackson takes to the podium to address the delegation. A tribute to firefighters and police will also take place.

Read Clinton's Speech:
Text of President Clinton's remarks: Democratic National Convention (The Talking Circle 8/15)

Relevant Links:
The Democratic National Convention - www.dems2000.com
The Democratic National Committee - www.dnc.org
Al Gore 2000 - www.algore2000.com

Related Stories:
Gore meets with tribal leaders (The Talking Circle 06/08)
Breaking the Digital Divide (Tech 06/08)
Clinton pledges Indian Country support (The Talking Circle 04/14)
Convention highlights contrasts (The Talking Circle 8/14)
Recap: GOP Convention (The Talking Circle 8/4)