[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 29, Number 17 (Monday, May 3, 1993)]
[Page 685]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement to Participants in the Gay Rights March

 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 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.