[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 33 (Wednesday, February 22, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E403]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                    UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND [UNCF]

                                 ______


                          HON. CARDISS COLLINS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 22, 1995
  Mrs. COLLINS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, a week ago I delivered the 
keynote speech at the Second Annual United Negro College Fund Banquet 
Fundraiser given by the Alliance of Telecommunication Employees' metro 
area chapter, where this year's theme was ``The Future Is Yours * * * 
Black History Evolves Through Education and Diversity.''
  This theme underscores what I believe to be the mission for all 
colleges and universities, not just our heritage-rich historically 
Black colleges and universities, and that is providing deserving, 
qualified students an opportunity for a quality education at a 
reasonable price.
  However, during the month of February, Black History Month, this 
occasion allowed me a moment to highlight just some of the many 
accomplishments--or miracles, if you will--of the United Negro College 
Fund.
  For example, In just 50 short years, the United Negro College Fund 
[UNCF] is responsible for: Graduating 33 percent of the African-
American students who attend college; helping to fund 41 historically 
Black colleges and universities; graduating in real numbers over 
250,000 predominantly African-American students; and raising over $1 
billion to help deserving students further their education.
  UNCF distinguishes itself from all others because UNCF provides a 
hand and not a handout.
  UNCF plays a critical role for persons with low income and 
socioeconomic level and those otherwise financially disadvantaged.
  We are battling a noncaring, do-it-yourself, and an I-don't-care 
Government. This is exemplified by passage of the so-called Contract 
With America legislation by House Republicans and conservative 
Democrats bent on killing such things as education grants and loans at 
decent interest rates, and eliminating funding for Medicare, Medicaid, 
and so on.
  There are efforts under way designed to have a negative effect on the 
quality of life while decreasing opportunities for millions of people 
who need help the most.
  If we are going to lead into the next century, it will only be by 
making sure that every kid finds a way to go to college, whatever the 
college, because the only way we will succeed is one degree at a time.


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