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Clean hands Quote by John F. Kennedy

“Immigration policy should be generous; it should be fair; it should be flexible. With such a policy we can turn to the world, and to our own past, with clean hands and a clear conscience.” quote by John F. Kennedy
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“Immigration policy should be generous; it should be fair; it should be flexible. With such a policy we can turn to the world, and to our own past, with clean hands and a clear conscience.”

John F. Kennedy

About This Quote

Source Speech: Public Address, 1962

The statement argues that immigration policy should be generous, fair, and adaptable, allowing nations to engage with the world responsibly and with moral clarity.

In simple terms: Immigration should be kind, just, and flexible.

Key Takeaway

Adopt humane, adaptable immigration policies.

Themes

politics ethics human rights

Mood

thoughtful optimistic

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy reform
  • community integration
  • international relations
  • humanitarian aid

Key Concepts

justice flexibility global responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can fairness be ensured without compromising security?
  • What mechanisms promote flexible yet responsible immigration?
A Different Perspective

Balancing national security with generosity can be contentious.

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