America Quote by Hubert H. Humphrey
“My friends, to those who say that we are rushing this issue of civil rights, I say to them we are 172 years late. To those who say that 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 to walk forthrightly into the bright sunshine of human rights.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Democratic National Convention, 1968
The speaker argues that civil‑rights progress is overdue and that states’‑rights arguments cannot delay human‑rights advancement.
In simple terms: Civil rights are overdue; states’ rights can’t block them.
Key Takeaway
Act now for human rights.
Themes
civil rights
politics
justice
history
activism
Mood
determined
urgent
hopeful
Type
political
inspirational
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- grassroots organizing
- education reform
- media commentary
Key Concepts
human rights
federalism
social change
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance swift reform with institutional stability?
- What role should states play in protecting rights?
A Different Perspective
Some may claim rapid change destabilizes institutions.
![“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…” quote by Hubert H. Humphrey](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ba5/hubert-h-humphrey-3388_america_to-those-who-say-my-friends-to-those-who_1948164.jpg)
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
