Ronald Reagan

“ This year, commemoration of the role of historically Black colleges and universities falls during our Nation's observance of the Bicentennial of the Constitution. That cherished document is the guarantor of liberty, union, and self-government for all Americans. Thanks to it we remain a strong people united in the richness of our diversity. We can all be proud of the role of historically Black colleges and universities in strengthening our country. Keeping these fine institutions a vital force in American education is a worthy national goal. ”

“ In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this 24th day of September, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and eighty-seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twelfth. ”

“ I urge all Americans to observe this week with appropriate ceremonies and activities to express our respect and appreciation for the outstanding academic and social accomplishments of our Nation's historically Black institutions of higher learning. ”