Jimmy Carter

“ Time and again in our history we have benefitted from the skill and dedication of our older workers. But too often prejudices and stereotypes—not limitations of ability—have kept older Americans from fulfilling their full potential at work.
The law now recognizes our special responsibility to assure older workers an equal chance for jobs and promotions. Many private groups and organizations are now working to improve prospects for older workers. ”

“ Our prosperity as a nation rests on our productivity as workers. Our happiness as individuals begins with our ability to find useful, rewarding jobs.
That is why I feel it so important that jobs be available for all our people able to perform them—people in every region, of every religion and color, and of every age. ”

“ I call upon State and local officials, as well as labor, business, veterans, farm, religious, scientific, professional and other groups, to join with older workers in making the American people aware of the value of employing older men and women. I urge all Americans to observe this week with appropriate ceremonies, activities and programs designed to promote employment opportunities for older workers. ”