The Honorable C. Virginia Fields' Speech Before the Democratic National Convention, Thursday, July 29, 2004

/EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE UPON DELIVERY OF SPEECH, SCHEDULED FOR 4:39 P.M. EDT TODAY, JULY 29/

BOSTON, July 29 /PRNewswire/ -- The following is a transcript of a speech by Virginia Fields at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday, July 29, 2004:

Fellow Democrats -- and especially the New York delegation -- good afternoon! This convention presents a historic moment for our party and the People of the United States. Tonight, John Kerry will share with the American people his vision for our nation's future. It is a vision that speaks to hope and opportunity. It is a vision that speaks to inclusion and a stronger America. I share John Kerry's vision. And it is this vision that makes it possible for me to move forward.

On my journey -- the long and winding road from Birmingham, Alabama -- the place of my birth -- to the borough presidency of Manhattan -- the place where my hopes and dreams were nourished. Now my journey has brought me here to Boston, and to this Democratic National Convention.

Growing up in the south, I have lived with the indignities and injustices of a segregated society. Yes, I know about struggle. I also know about hope and how it can lead to success. John Kerry is about hope.

I succeeded because of an abiding faith, and a mother who insisted that I get a good education, that I know right from wrong, and stand up for my rights and those of others.

So as a teenager, I marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I withstood the fire hoses and the vicious dogs -- and I was jailed with him. For Dr. King, equal opportunity, civil rights and social justice were the birthright of each and every American, just as they are fundamental to John Kerry and our Democratic party.

John Kerry's long record of fighting for equality...civil rights...and women's rights...Earned my early, whole-hearted endorsement. I saw his commitment. I felt his passion. I am among the ever-increasing millions of Americans who fear we are heading in the wrong direction. I am among the millions of New Yorkers who will never forget the terror of 9-11. We still live with scars that may never heal. We need leaders who support and will protect our right to a safe, secure city and a strong, respected America.

Let us return to our homes determined to elect the Kerry-Edwards team because it truly matters.

Thank you, and may God bless America!

Source: Democratic National Convention Committee

CONTACT:  Peggy Wilhide of the Democratic National Convention Committee,
+1-617-366-3100

Web site:  http://www.dems2004.org/