And if we are to open employment opportunities in this country for members of all races and creeds, then the Federal Government must set an example …. The President himself must set the key example. I am not going to promise a Cabinet post or any other post to any race or ethnic group. That is racism in reverse at its worst. So I do not promise to consider race or religion in my appointments if I am successful. I promise only that I will not consider them.
John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) US President (1961-63)
Speech at Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio (17 Oct 1960)