Remarks by the President on Education Reform at the National Urban League Centennial Conference

Washington Convention Center
Washington, D.C.

10:09 A.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  Everybody, please have a seat.  Have a seat.  Take a load off.  (Applause.)  Thank you. 

Good morning, Urban Leaguers. 

AUDIENCE:  Good morning.

THE PRESIDENT:  Yes.  It is wonderful to be here with all of you.  It is wonderful to be here.  And let me begin by congratulating Marc Morial for his outstanding leadership, his great friendship.  (Applause.)  I want to thank the entire National Urban League on your centennial.  From your founding, amid the great migration, to the struggles of the civil rights movement, to the battles of today, the Urban League has been on the ground, in our communities, working quietly -– day in, day out -– without fanfare; opening up opportunity, rolling back inequality, making our union just a little more perfect.  America is a better place because of the Urban League.  And I’m grateful to all of you for the outstanding contributions that you’ve made. (Applause.)  

The last time I spoke with you was during your Orlando conference in August — (applause) — got Orlando in the house.  (laughter) — Orlando conference back in August of 2008.  I didn’t have any gray hair back then.  (Laughter