By authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America.

Clarence Thomas comes to the Supreme Court having worked in the private sector, having served in State government and in every branch of Federal Government.

I urge business owners, educators, public officials, consumer leaders, and members of the media to observe this week with appropriate activities.

I am extremely pleased that Secretary of State Baker and Foreign Minister Pankin have announced that the United States and the Soviet Union are issuing invitations to a Middle East peace conference in Madrid.

America is blessed to have a man of this character serve on its Highest Court.

The objective of the effort is nothing less than a just, lasting, and comprehensive settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict.

America is the first nation in history founded on an idea: On the unshakable certainty that all men are created equal.

Those rights include: the right to be free of unfair monopolies, which limit selection of products and services.

I myself plan to be there to help open this historic gathering.

Clarence Thomas has endured America at its worst, and he's answered with America at its best.

I very much hope that all those invited will respond quickly and affirmatively so that the necessary organization and preparations can be completed for this historic undertaking.