"Anyone who witnessed the most recent Presidential Inauguration knows that America’s greatness is enhanced by the diversity of our communities, our workforces and our educational institutions. There are few nations in the world where people of different backgrounds, ethnic origins, religious beliefs and political persuasions have come together to build a great Democracy, one that is envied across the globe."
"When I first went to Congress there were fifty-five women in the House of Representatives and seven women in the United States Senate. Today, there are seventy-eight women in the House and twenty in the Senate. Most political observers agree that our governance is better because of the new realities in Washington."
"Of course, there are those among us who are weary of diversity. They must understand that it is not a burden, but a privilege. Our strength as a people is directly related to the tapestry of our culture. History has taught us that those who stand in the way of change are swept away by the gigantic wave that accompanies progress."
"If you look at the professions and industries that are at the heart of our progress you will find people who speak various languages, who pray to different Gods and who hold numerous political beliefs. We have learned that progress does not demand that we all believe the same things. It does require, however, that we are agreeable with one another even if we have major disagreements."
"In my years of public service I have been able to accomplish many goals and objectives. Many of them have come about with the support of people who did not look like me, who did not believe what I believed and who were members of a different political party."
"We were able to work with one another and understand our differences because we respected each other, and had a concern for the larger good. As a diverse nation we can move forward. I have always believed that the larger our collective tent, the greater the opportunities for all people."
Op Ed from The Dallas Weekly
