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And it puts the lie to the notion that the separation of church and state in America means faith should have no role in public life. Contrary to the claims of some of my critics, black and white, I have never been so naive as to believe that we can get beyond our racial divisions in a single election cycle, or with a single candidacy - particularly a candidacy as imperfect as my own. To President Clinton, who last night made the case for change as only he can make it; to Ted Kennedy, who embodies the spirit of service; and to the next Vice President of the United States, Joe Biden, I thank you.
Yet in this new age, such attitudes are self-defeating. Islam is not part of the problem in combating violent extremism - it is an important part of promoting peace. Now let me be clear: issues of women's equality are by no means simply an issue for Islam.
A lack of economic opportunity among black men, and the shame and frustration that came from not being able to provide for one's family, contributed to the erosion of black families - a problem that welfare policies for many years may have worsened. It's that he spoke as if our society was static; as if no progress has been made; as if this country - a country that has made it possible for one of his own members to run for the highest office in the land and build a coalition of white and black; Latino and Asian, rich and poor, young and old - is still irrevocably bound to a tragic past. The fundamentals we use to measure economic strength are whether we are living up to that fundamental promise that has made this country great - a promise that is the only reason I am standing here tonight. But we must also admit that programs alone can't replace parents; that government can't turn off the television and make a child do her homework; that fathers must take more responsibility for providing the love and guidance their children need. So let me be clear: no system of government can or should be imposed upon one nation by any other.
And that man is John Kerry. I believe we can provide jobs to the jobless, homes to the homeless, and reclaim young people in cities across America from violence and despair. And there's another issue we must confront as well. But race is an issue that I believe this nation cannot afford to ignore right now. And I consider it part of my responsibility as President of the United States to fight against negative stereotypes of Islam wherever they appear.
But my grandfather had larger dreams for his son. For we have a choice in this country. And for the sake of our economy, our security, and the future of our planet, I will set a clear goal as President: in ten years, we will finally end our dependence on oil from the Middle East. But what I will not do is suggest that the Senator takes his positions for political purposes. All these things must be done in partnership.
Thank you, and God bless America.