    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1993, Book I)]
    [April 25, 1993]
    [Pages 510-511]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement to Participants in the March for Lesbian, Gay, and Bi Equal
    Rights and Liberation
    April 25, 1993

        Welcome to Washington, DC, your Nation's Capital.
        During my campaign and since my election, I have said that America
    does not have a person

    [[Page 511]]

    to waste. Today I want you to know that I am still committed to that
    principle.
        I stand with you in the struggle for equality for all Americans,
    including gay men and lesbians. In this great country, founded on the
    principle that all people are created equal, we must learn to put aside
    what divides us and focus on what we share. We all want the chance to
    excel in our work. We all want to be safe in our communities. We all
    want the support and acceptance of our friends and families.
        Last November, the American people sent a message to make Government
    more accountable to all its citizens, regardless of race, class, gender,
    disability, or sexual orientation. I am proud of the strides we are
    making in that direction.
        The Pentagon has stopped asking recruits about their sexual
    orientation, and I have asked the Secretary of Defense to determine how
    to implement an Executive order lifting the ban on gays and lesbians in
    the military by July 15.
        My 1994 budget increases funding for AIDS research, and my economic
    plan will fully fund the Ryan White Act. Soon I will announce a new AIDS
    coordinator to implement the recommendations of the AIDS Commission
    reports.
        I met 9 days ago with leaders of the gay and lesbian community in
    the Oval Office at the White House. I am told that this meeting marks
    the first time in history that the President of the United States has
    held such a meeting. In addition, members of my staff have been and will
    continue to be in regular communication with the gay and lesbian
    community.
        I still believe every American who works hard and plays by the rules
    ought to be a part of the national community. Let us work together to
    make this vision real.
        Thank you.

    Note: Representative Nancy Pelosi read the statement to march
    participants assembled on The Mall.