February 3, 2003

Senator Edward M Kennedy (MA) addressed the 71st Winter Meeting luncheon on January 22nd, commenting on a range of major issues facing the nation. His speech was given a day after speaking to the National Press Club regarding the mounting international crisis.

Senator Kennedy offered his perspectives for a potential war in Iraq. "Our priorities are wrong in foreign policy. We need to take into consideration that we are being rushed into war. Security is our homeland - hometown - security. Instead, we are facing homeland insecurity," said the Senator.

After thanking Conference President Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino for leadership on the education front in Boston as well as with the Conference of Mayors, Kennedy thanked all mayors for being the ones on the "firing line" when it comes to change in communities. "Mayors understand the kind of anguish, frustration and hopelessness [citizens are experiencing]. Mayors need help in being the first line of defense. Safety and security in malls, schools and water supplies...trains and airports."

On the domestic agenda and education in particular, Kennedy stated, "No Child Left Behind (the most recent federal legislation focusing on improving schools) means children will work harder, parents will be more involved in schools and teachers better qualified. Responsibility is on everyone but ourselves [federal government]. It must be fully funded."

The Senator also addressed healthcare commenting, "that prescription drugs need to be taken care of," as well as voting against a tax cut and pushing for a stronger commitment to civil rights. "We have affirmative action at West Point, the Naval and Air Force Academies and diversity is reflected. Why is this Administration abandoning this move? It's a question of priorities," Kennedy concluded.