Alas Quote by Andrew Sullivan
“The simple truth is that there isn't a single civil right I would deny to an evangelical Christian. I've defended their freedom of religion, of association, of disassociation, and believe they should be treated with respect. I wouldn't dream of drumming them out of the military, firing them for their faith, tearing up their relationships, or taking their children away from them. The favor, alas, is not returned.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Simple Truth" by Andrew Sullivan, 2009
The author argues that civil rights should be universally applied, even to groups that may not reciprocate respect, emphasizing consistent protection of freedom of religion and association.
In simple terms: Civil rights must be applied equally to everyone.
Key Takeaway
Treat all groups with the same rights regardless of their attitudes.
Themes
e
justice
religious freedom
civil rights
respect
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
ethical
political
When to use this quote
- Military service
- Employment
- Family law
- Public policy
Key Concepts
Equality
Reciprocity
Human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- Should rights be unconditional?
- What limits, if any, should be placed on civil protections?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that extending rights to hostile groups may enable harmful ideologies.
![“The [Apache] tribe was under siege by government agents, who had jailed some of the medicine men for practicing their rituals. Freedom of religion was cherished as a sacrosanct American right -- everywhere, that is, but on the archipelago of Indian life.” quote by Timothy Egan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4a7/timothy-egan-30685_civil-rights_the-apache-tribe-was-under-siege-by-gove_257474.jpg)
