Speech #830008065

I well remember what I believe was his last address on the floor of the Senate some time in May when he was already stricken with his fatal illness and in great suffering. He came on the floor walking with a cane. His face was drawn and it was evident that his body was racked with pain. but he came to the Senate because he felt it was his duty to speak in behalf of humane. fair. and enlightened immigration and naturalization policies and to oppose discrimination and injustice. His words in their significance and wide implications transcended the particular bill that was being debated when he said: The good opinion of our neighbors abroad is not to be purchased by economic favors alone. Moreover it is not important to us solely as a means of securing military alliances. If we cannot do more than talk about freedom. justice. and the dignity of the individual. if we cannot exemplify itlegislate it. if you likewe can never win the belief in our way of life. and the respect and the voluntary cooperation in our aims which I believe essential to our survival in a threatening world. * * * One of the great weaknesses of totalitarian countries is their inability properly to understand the intentions and views of other nations. Our immigrants have always been a major source of strength to us In this respect. as in many others. These eloquent words may long serve as a guidepost for all of us. We are today mourning a great legislator. a brilliant lawyer. and a wise leader.