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But today we have adopted a Constitution which expressly

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prohibits discrimination by the State on account of race,

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color, religion or national origin.

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Further, this Constitution is vital proof that

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free men in a democracy, free men and women of purpose

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and good will, in the perilous and challenging times in

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which we find ourselves, can act with courage, speed and

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wisdom in meeting the needs of the people who are determined

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to live under a system of just laws.

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We have forged here a document which is more

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than a statement of fundamental law. It is a symbol of

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our unity and our allegiance to the highest American

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political tradition of equality and justice.

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It presents an improved structure of the poli-

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tical system of our State, which is essentially to preserve

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liberty.

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Importantly, we have provided here for the

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maximum participation of the people in their governing, and

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for keeping the government close to the people. And we

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have faced the necessity of making the law so clear that even

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the most humble will understand that it is designed to be