Kennedy's last typed statement, drafted in Texas and left unsigned as he died just 15 hours later. Unsigned typed statement, one page, 8 x 10.5, White House letterhead, November 21, 1963. In part: “I am delighted to join the members of the League of United Latin American Councils of Texas in honoring their State Director, Joe A. Garza. Joe Garza’s contributions to the people of Texas have been formidable, but his work on behalf of LULAC in its academic scholarship program for deserving students of Mexican-American origin is particularly outstanding and worthy of commendation. One of our greatest hopes for the future lies with our young people, and how we prepare them today vitally affects our common destiny…Joe A. Garza, whom you honor here tonight, has lived and worked in the finest tradition of the LULAC and of all forward-thinking Americans.”
Also includes two telegrams sent to Pierre Salinger, each one page, 8.5 x 5.5, stamp-dated November 19 and 20, 1963. The first, in part: “As the presidents plane approaches south Ft Worth please point to President and Mrs. Kennedy the large lighted sign…The letters ‘Welcome JFK’ will be in bright amber lights. Size 14 feet by 30 feet each.”
The second, in part: “Informed locally presidential statement of greeting at Houston Airport has been cancelled. Strongly suggest brief comment…Our Mike with CBS Eye will be in immediate vicinity of the reception line.” In overall fine condition, with mild soiling to the typed statement.
All originate from the estate of the Assistant Press Secretary Malcolm Kilduff, who was serving as acting press secretary for the Dallas trip because Pierre Salinger was bound for Japan. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Erik L. Dorr. Just 15 hours before his death, Kennedy attended a meeting of the League of United Latin American Councils held at the Rice Hotel in Houston, on November 21, 1963, where he read a statement honoring Joe A. Garza for his work with the organization. Following his remarks, Jackie spoke briefly in Spanish, much to the delight of the audience. Today, this moment is recognized as an important turning point in the history of Latino involvement in American politics—never before had a president so specifically addressed the Latin American community or acknowledged Latinos as a legitimate voting bloc. An outstanding set of items from the last few days of Kennedy’s life. RR Auction COA.
