March 3, 2000
Mrs. Kadiatou Diallo,
As a citizen of the United States of America, I must apologize for the actions of my government. I am ashamed of how we have treated your family, and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe that you came to these shores in search of physical security and greater economic opportunity and instead you have found grief and tragedy.
I hope that you will find solace in knowing that there are hundreds of thousands if not millions of people who see themselves as being your son. Amadou did not die in vain. His death has sparked a wave of debate and action. Although this cannot bring your son back, his death will help force this country to face itself. He has contributed to the struggle faced by all of humanity, the struggle of social and economic justice for all people. I honor you and your family in the struggle, and I honor Amadou as representing all people no matter their skin color, cultural heritage, religion, or political stripe.
It is written in Time magazine that your son loved America more than the Americans. Let it also be written that your son’s death pushed forward the cause upon which America is built, the cause for freedom.
May peace be with you.
