I am not suggesting in any way that we forget or minimize what was done to Africans who were ripped out of their lives and brought to this continent in chains under the most horrible and inhumane conditions; or that we forget or minimize what was done to their progeny. We must never forget so that if and when the monstrous, atrocious side of humanity ever raises its head, we can recognize it for what it is, call it out, and denounce it with words and with deeds.
But we must move forward. This nation cannot atone for the unatonable other than by assuring to greatest extent possible, the equality of opportunity for all our people regardless of the color of their skin.