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THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Vice President


For Immediate Release April 19, 2000

STATEMENT BY THE VICE PRESIDENT ON PASSOVER

Tipper and I extend our warmest wishes to all those celebrating Passover.

During this sacred holiday, Jewish families around the globe come together around the seder table to remember the ancient Israelites' exodus from Egypt, their deliverance from bondage, and their quest for freedom. It is a story that parents have told their children for generations -- and a story from which all freedom-loving people can draw inspiration.

Throughout the history of the United States, Americans of all faiths have been drawn to the Passover story. Our first settlers came to these shores in search of their own promised land, free from religious persecution. God's deliverance of his people from slavery to liberty inspired the abolitionists in the 19th century and the civil rights movement of the last century.

Now, during this Passover season, let us rededicate ourselves to continuing our journey to our own promised land. Let us create an America where all our people have the liberty to worship according to their conscience and the freedom to soar as high as their talents will take them. And let us build an America where all our children can grow up free from the oppression of intolerance.

May you have a happy and joyous Passover.

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