Altars Quote by Matthew Coon Come
“We cannot allow some people to be left at the back of the human rights bus... We must ensure the rights of individual groups or people -be they indigenous peoples, or peoples of Asian or African or American descent, or Jews or Muslims- are not sacrificed on an altar of progress for some while there are setbacks to others.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Indigenous Rights Advocacy, 2010
Advocates for protecting minority rights against majority-driven progress that can marginalize vulnerable groups.
In simple terms: Protect minorities when pursuing progress.
Key Takeaway
Ensure inclusive policies for all groups.
Themes
human rights
inclusion
social justice
Mood
concerned
determined
Type
activist
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- community organizing
- legal reform
- education campaigns
Key Concepts
minority protection
collective responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance development with minority protections?
- What mechanisms safeguard against sacrificing rights for progress?
A Different Perspective
Balancing progress with equity is complex and may face political resistance.
