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REMARKS BY:	DONNA E. SHALALA, SECRETARY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
PLACE:		Rally For Social Security, Washington, D.C.
DATE:		September 24, 1998

Social Security First.

As the 20th Century ends, as we look back on our accomplishments -- the peace we sacrificed for, the sickness we've overcome, the human rights we've gained, the technology that has changed the way we work and learn -- no accomplishment matches the enduring legacy of Social Security.

In the 20th Century we -- Democrats -- changed what it means to grow old in America. Social Security brought dignity to those who fought our wars at home and abroad. Social Security honors our parents and grandparents by safeguarding their independence. Social Security takes away the fear of poverty for millions of our most vulnerable citizens. More than any other government program in our history, Social Security reminds us that this a great and good and decent nation.

Social Security is the enduring legacy of our party . of our progressive politics . of our public spirit. Yes -- we must modernize Social Security. But we must keep the security in Social Security. Social Security will always be first in our hearts and our politics and Social Security must be first for our surplus. Social Security first.

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