February is African American History Month, but that is not what brought Joe Clark to the UA last night.

"This month and every month as Americans it's time for us to come together as a people."

This is a message that Clark stressed over and over during a speech funded by the ASUA Speakers Board to about 150 people in the Arizona Ballroom.

Clark, who comes from Newark, New Jersey, was named a model educator by former President Reagan, and later became the subject of the film, "Lean On Me."

Clark says he sees education as his mission.

On this, his second visit to the UA, Clark said, "I hope to give tonight the most scintillating deliverance this university has ever heard. I want to motivate, stimulate, and educate these people about things people are normally afraid to address."

Clark seemed to accomplish this as the audience laughed with him and cheered him in a standing ovation at the when he was finished speaking.

He said people must strike the heads of hatred and animosity, in order to come together, and they must be truthful to themselves and others.

"All our strength is in our unity, working together is progress," Clark said.

He said if people must hate then they should hate what must be hated - like violence and corruption.

"Stand tall, make a difference, bring about a rejuvenation to an effete society."