Jimmy Carter: “This is the type of balanced reform effort which will streamline the Government's efforts to protect the health, safety…”

The aircraft carrying the 52 American hostages had cleared Iranian airspace on the first -- first leg of a journey home. And at every one of the 52 hostages was alive, was well and free.

Our great nation now teeters on the brink of a widening abyss. Without immediate action, we are at genuine risk of civil conflict and losing our precious democracy.

All of us owe them our gratitude and respect.

I say to you, quite frankly, that the time for racial discrimination is over.