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REMARKS BY:	DONNA E. SHALALA, SECRETARY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
PLACE:		80th Birthday Of The League Of Women Voters, Washington, D.C.
DATE:		Monday, June 19, 2000
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Distinguished Leader Award

Thank you to each and every member of the League of Women Voters for this Distinguished Leader Award.

I'm tempted to say that I'm deeply humbled by this honor - but I'm also reminded of the words of Golda Meir, who once said: "Don't be so humble you're not that great." Obviously, Meir never met any of you who work so hard to convey the message that democracy isn't a spectator sport.

Thanks to the League of Women Voters more citizens are getting that message. All of you certainly understand, that democracy can't run on cruise control - there's simply too much at stake to sit on your hands and sit out an election or the political process.

For eight decades, the League of Women Voters has been tirelessly working for citizens - to increase understanding of policy issues and to encourage participation in our democracy. Anniversaries are time for both celebration and reflection.

As we celebrate tonight, we must also reflect on where the next 80 years of advocacy will take us. I see a future of continued partnerships. Government and private sector coming together to encourage more people to participate in local government, with community organizations and at home -- teaching their children to stay informed and stay involved. And of course, I see a future of continued partnerships to encourage more people to let their voice be heard through their vote.

As we're all aware, for the better part of our nation's history courageous women struggled and suffered for the right to vote.for the right to be heard.for the right to be counted.

But today too many young women - and men -- take this right, this gift, this dignity, for granted. Less than 30 percent of all 18 to 25 year-old registered voters participated in the last election.

Susan B. Anthony said it best when she said: "There will never be complete equality until citizens themselves help to make laws and elect lawmakers."

That's why I'm proud to add my voice to the strong chorus at the League of Women Voters, voices that are fighting for equality, voices that are helping our citizens, and voices that are strengthening our democracy.

I wish the League of Women Voters a very happy 80th birthday - and 80 more years of outstanding service to our nation. Keep up your hard work. And, again, thank you for this special award.

Thank you.