During my Administration we have taken numerous positive steps to achieve a
full partnership of neighborhood organizations and government at all
levels. We have successfully fought against red lining and housing
discrimination. We created innovative Self Help funding and technical
resource transfer mechanisms. We have created unique methods of access for
neighborhood organizations to have a participating role in Federal and
State government decision-making. Neighborhood based organizations are the
threshold of the American community.
The Federal government will need to develop more innovative and practical
ways for neighborhood based organizations to successfully participate in
the identification and solution of local and neighborhood concerns. Full
partnership will only be achieved with the knowing participation of leaders
of government, business, education and unions. Neither state nor Federal
solutions imposed from on high will suffice. Neighborhoods are the fabric
and soul of this great land. Neighborhoods define the weave that has been
used to create a permanent fabric. The Federal government must take every
opportunity to provide access and influence to the individuals and
organizations affected at the neighborhood level.