Advance Quote by Gerrit Smith
“Let us tell our legislators in advance, that this is a right, restraints on which, we will not, cannot bear; and that every attempt to restrain it is a palpable wrong on God and man.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 19th‑century abolitionist address
Advocates that the right to personal liberty cannot be limited, framing any restriction as immoral.
In simple terms: Liberty cannot be restrained.
Key Takeaway
Defend fundamental freedoms.
Themes
freedom
rights
morality
Mood
defiant
passionate
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- human rights campaigns
- public policy
Key Concepts
civil liberties
ethical limits
political activism
Questions to Reflect On
- When should liberty yield to collective good?
- Who decides what is a 'palpable wrong'?
A Different Perspective
Rights can conflict with public safety concerns.
