Wesley K. Clark Remarks to National Congress of American Indians Conventio

[democratreformed]

Link: http://clark04.com/speeches/011/

Excerpts:
"But I do this with a deep sense of humility. Because frankly, I don't think any presidential candidate or political leader has all the answers. What we do have are certain fundamental principles that guide us - the values that shape our vision and make us who we are. For me, that's the belief that our country cannot move forward when we continue to leave so many of our citizens behind. It's the belief that we need to build bridges, not walls, with communities here in America, and with our allies around the world. And most important of all, it's the belief stated in the Great Law of the Six Nations Iroquois Confederacy that: "In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decision on the next seven generations."
SNIP

But while you've enriched this country for generations, this country has not returned the favor. In most cases, it's done just the opposite. And I'm not just talking about history here. I'm talking about what's happening right now, across America. I'm talking about how the U.S. government continues to deny tribal nations the resources and respect they're due.

Today, I want to talk about how, by working as partners with tribal governments and investing in tribal nations, we can do better -- not just for today or tomorrow, but for seven generations and beyond."
SNIP

"Finally, and most important of all, the U.S. government needs to treat your governments like the sovereign, independent entities they are. Because I firmly believe that you, and only you, know what's best for your communities and your members. And you should be able to govern your tribes, and mold your futures into whatever shape you choose. Because tribal sovereignty isn't just a soundbite -- it's the law of the land. It's spelled out in the United States Constitution and numerous treaties. And it's high time that the Supreme Court and our state governments started acting like it."
SNIP

"Today, it's clear we need a new direction for Indian Country and all of America. And the only way to make that happen is for all of you to show up at the polls and make your voice heard. So no matter who you support, I urge you to get out and vote -- both in the primaries this winter and spring, and in the general election next November. And if you have any doubt that your vote matters, I'd remind you that Al Gore won the very state we're in today by a grand total of 366 votes. There are a couple thousand of you in this room. Your votes matter.

And so does your vision. More than most, you've understood that we have to act not out of expediency or selfishness, but out of a deep and abiding concern for the welfare of those who will walk this earth generations into the future. That's a vision I share. It's the vision I'm hoping to follow in the months and years ahead. And I would be honored if all of you would join me."

[Vis Numar]

1. lehenious

To bad that slimebag Lehane is whispering his snake-like words into the ear of Clark.

[mikehiggins]

2. Huh? What's your point? n/t

[dkf]

3. You're pretty funny.

Exactly what is a "lehanious" remark?

Several commentators have mentioned that Clark speaks in one platitude after another. Is that what you're talking about?

[ebw]

4. Re: Wesley K. Clark Remarks to National Congress of American Indians Conve

Not the best text a candidate has ever presented to the NCAI. However, I'm sure lots of people wish they were speachwriters for someone.