Let them see in us, Marti said, constructive Americans and not empty bitterness.

I can assure you that it is the strongest wish of the people of this country, as well as the people of this hemisphere, that Cuba shall one day be free again.

I can assure you that this flag will be returned to this brigade in a free Havana.

Your conduct and valor are proof that although Castro and his fellow dictators may rule nations, they do not rule people.

On behalf of my Government and my country, I welcome you to the United States.

I call upon all citizens of the United States and all officials of the United States and of every State and local government to dedicate themselves to the completion of the task of assuring that every American, regardless of his race…

I determine that the modifications of existing duties and other import restrictions of the United States, the additional import restrictions, and the continuance of existing customs and excise treatment of articles imported into the United…

Now, Therefore, I, John F. Kennedy, under the authority vested in me, as President, by the Constitution and statutes, particularly section 350 of the Tariff Act of 1930, do proclaim that

The Emancipation Proclamation expresses our Nation's policy, rounded on justice and morality, and that it is therefore fitting and proper to commemorate the centennial of the historic Emancipation Proclamation throughout the year 1963.

I request the United States Commission on Civil Rights to plan and participate in appropriate commemorative activities recognizing the centennial of the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation.

I call upon the Governors of the States, mayors of cities, and other public officials, as well as private persons, organizations, and groups, to observe the centennial by appropriate ceremonies.