ALLEN-LINCOLX-DOUGLASS BANQUET 689

While Douglass was primarily interested in the emancipation of the
Negro slaves, his thoughts and actions revealed a profound compre-
hension of freedom's implication.

He sought political freedom for all, not just the Negro, and was an
impassioned advocate of women's suffrage and women's rights.

He recognized with freedom and rights go responsibility and or-
ganized Massachusetts' celebrated Negro regiments offering his own
sons as the first recruits.

From his close friendship with English liberals, Douglass conceived
a broader meaning for emancipation. Emancipation was more than
physical freedom; it was social equality founded upon economic and
spiritual opportunity.

Douglass' logic and life have significant contemporary meaning.

While we continue to struggle for human rights, we must not limit
the struggle to just one minority or one nation.

Civil rights cannot survive without civil responsibilities and above
all, civil order.

Freedom is more than physical access; it is as Douglass conceived,
equality in social, economic and spiritual opportunity. Government,
civic and religious organizations, and the individual have an oppor-
tunity and an obligation in this sphere.

I am honored to accept this citation on behalf of the State of Mary-
land. I am grateful for your recognition of the role state government
can play in expanding human rights and enlarging human oppor-
tunities.

I am proud that during my administration, Maryland's first "fair
housing" law was enacted, public accommodations statutes were ex-
tended and Maryland's first Code of Fair Employment Practices for
State Service was promulgated by Executive Order.

While I feel this record is commendable, I am not complacent. My
administration is committed to making the achievements of this first
year but the first step on an unwavering path to progress.

In this turbulent time — at home and abroad — the A. M. E. Church
stands as a citadel of hope.

The A. M. E. Church — proudly Negro yet just as proudly Ameri-
can — has continued to build where others would burn.

The A. M. E. Church represents generations of outstanding Ameri-
cans who have kept their dignity in the face of indignation and re-
leased their indignation with a sense of dignity.