Over the past 18 months, Bill Lann Lee has shown that he honors the Civil Rights Division's mission to safeguard equal justice for all. He has enforced the nation's civil rights laws fairly and effectively. He has demonstrated that he can and will meet the challenges of the position with distinction, and merits the Senate's confidence.

When Mr. Lee appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee, he articulated his understanding that as the Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division his client is the United States and all of its people. He told us movingly about why he became a person who has dedicated his life to equal justice for all when he spoke of the treatment that his parents received as immigrants. Bill Lann Lee told us how, in spite of his father's personal treatment and experiences, William Lee remained a fierce American patriot who volunteered to serve in the U.S. Army Air Corps in World War II, and never lost his belief in America.

Bill Lann Lee's skills, his experience, the compelling personal journey that he and his family have traveled, his commitment to full opportunity for all Americans – these qualities appeal to the best in us. We need Bill Lann Lee's proven talents and abilities in these difficult times. I believe Bill Lann Lee can move this country forward to a time when discrimination will subside and affirmative action is no longer needed; a time when each person – man or woman, black or white, rich or poor, urban or rural, regardless of national or ethnic origin and regardless of sexual orientation or disability – shall have a fair and equal opportunity to live the American dream.

I am confident that if permitted a vote on the merits of the President's nomination of Bill Lann Lee for Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, the Senate will confirm this fine person and dedicated public servant.