To those who say, my friends, to those who say, that we…
“To those who say, my friends, to those who say, that we are rushing this issue of civil rights, I say to them we are 172 years [too] late! To those who say, this civil rights program is an infringement on states’ rights, I say this: the time has arrived in America for the Democratic Party to get out of the shadow of states’ rights and walk forthrightly into the bright sunshine of human rights!”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Civil rights have been delayed too long; the party must prioritize human rights over states’ rights.
In simple terms: We are late on civil rights; act now for human rights.
Support policies that advance equality.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legislation
- activism
- education
- community organizing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance local autonomy with national equality?
- What actions can individuals take to promote civil rights?
Some argue states’ rights protect local autonomy.