1980
This speech, given before the New York City Council of Churches Educational Convention on January 10, 1980 explores the mission of the public school system. In it Dr. Macchiarola explores his committment to social justice and the current plight of school children in New York City.
He states, "Students without hope- like gardens without light- are sad things to behold. Students without hope cannot learn. They cannot see accomplishment and success in the future. They see the ugly and they see despair. They run from responsibilty and they strike out at others. The reason for many of the bad things that these children do to themselves and others were not addressed in our schools. The children were not reached. We all failed these children."
He goes on to emphasize the powerless situation children face in today's society- because they cannot vote and cannot strike, their ability to win public support is limited. He deplores that "even in the nation's most liberal city, victims are blamed for their condition" rather than receive resources.
"Hope springs from justice" he continues. Then he expresses the sense of committment he feels that children of all backgrounds are entitled to and deplores the implications of a phrase he has often heard of "saving New York City for the middle class." At one point in his address Dr. Macchiarola very firmly declares, "I pledge my administration to policies that promote equality and minimize class."