FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DECEMBER 18, 2002
CONTACT: LINDA MACIAS/PAUL TODD (202) 225-6161

Baca Statement on Senator Trent Lott

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Representative Joe Baca (D-Rialto) today made the following statement regarding the recent controversy surrounding statements by Senator Trent Lott (R-MS):

"I join the millions of people who were shocked by Senator Lott's comments, especially coming from such a prominent leader in the Republican Party. His insensitive comment offended everybody who strives to bring justice and equality to every American."

"It's unfortunate that with so much facing our nation in the coming year that we are still dealing with the divisions of the past. Senator Lott's statement regarding Senator Thurmond's history aside, his voting record - which is the more important statement - displays an ongoing mindset that African Americans, and indeed all racial minorities, should still be relegated to the back of the bus when it comes to equality and quality of life issues. He, along with a lot of other Republicans, voted against the Voting Rights Act and the Martin Luther King Holiday, and has publicly supported racist institutions and ideologies."

"I don't know Senator Lott, and I can't speak to his personal attitudes and opinions, but I can look at his record and see that he clearly has no place leading a body that is supposed to represent the will of the American people. That decision, however, is ultimately a decision that Senator Lott's colleagues will have to make for themselves."

"Perhaps this incident will ultimately be positive for America. It will remind us that although we have made great strides together in ending racism and hate, we still need to be diligent in working to correct the injustices of the past."

"While others in the Congress talk about equality out of one side of their mouths, they cling to past racial and social divisions out of the other. I believe that all people deserve an equal voice for the betterment of their lives and the lives of their families."

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