Gerald R. Ford

“ December 15 is the one hundred and eighty-fifth anniversary of the adoption of the Bill of Rights and December 10 is the twenty-eighth anniversary of the Universal Declaration. As we enter the third century of our national existence we need more than ever to remember that the principles contained in these fundamental statements of human purpose have immediate application, not only domestically in our dealings with one another, but also internationally in our pursuit of friendly relations with all countries. ”

“ This Declaration eloquently affirms that the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world lies in the recognition of the inherent dignity, and the equal and inalienable rights, of all members of the human family. ”

“ Further, I ask all Americans, as they reflect with conscious pride on our history, not to be content with past accomplishments but to recognize the future task of our Nation and mankind: to bring about the full realization of the ideals and aspirations expressed in the Bill of Rights and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. ”