Rep. Thomas Wright stuck to political boilerplate when nominating Jim Black.
According to a copy of the speech recorded in the House Journal for Jan. 27, 1999, Wright said almost nothing substantive about why he supported Black for speaker.
Instead, he noted that the new speaker would help "determine the direction of this great State at the beginning of the next millennium."
"I submit to you, Members of this House, that James Boyce Black understands this and that he will work to ensure that our diversity and the talents that it brings will be maximized to the benefit of our State," he said.
He ended by saying that members of the House are "heirs of a legacy."
Full text of the speech after the jump.
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From the House Journal, Jan. 27, 1999:
The nomination is seconded by Representative Wright.
"Members of this 143rd General Assembly's House of Representatives. I stand before you on this day to second the nomination of James Boyce Black, of Mecklenburg County. Members whom have served in this Body during the past four years know of his work as Minority leader, and Members arriving here for their first opportunity to serve, will soon learn of him.
"We are blessed to have the opportunity to serve in this Chamber at this time in our State's history. 'Why' you may ask? Well, the answer is, that this Assembly will be ending a century and beginning a new one. Why is this so important? Well, because the policies and opportunities that we will establish will determine the direction of this great State at the beginning of the next millennium. What an exciting time to be a part of a paradigm shift and charting the course for our future.
"The opportunities are unlimited. Now the question that we must ask ourselves is, what type of leader will this Chamber choose to assist us in getting there? Will this be a leader who will continue the status quo? Or, a leader with a vision that recognizes that we are a diverse state? You see, Members of the House, that within that diversity is our strength. As heirs of a legacy, (to serve as Members of the North Caorlina House of Representatives), we must have a Speaker that will ensure that there is inclusion in this process. This is essential as we embark upon the challenges and opportunities of the time upon us. I submit to you, Members of this House, that James Boyce Black understands this and that he will work to ensure that our diversity and the talents that it brings will be maximized to the benefit of our State.
"We are the heirs of a legacy, a legacy of great Members, opportunities and progress, but, remember, to safeguard that legacy, well into the next century will require leadership with a vision that includes the diversity of this Body and this State. Then, and only then, will we live out this great State's motto, Esse Quam Videri, 'to be rather than to seem.' I fervently encourage your support and vote for Representative James B. Black for Speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives for the years 1999 and 2000. Thank you."
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