Skip to content

Abolishing slavery Quote by William Lloyd Garrison

“My crime is that I will not go with the multitude to do evil. My singularity is that when I say that freedom is of God and slavery is of the devil, I mean just what I say. My fanaticism is that I insist on the American people abolishing slavery, or ceasing to prate on the rights of man.” quote by William Lloyd Garrison
Download Open image
“My crime is that I will not go with the multitude to do evil. My singularity is that when I say that freedom is of God and slavery is of the devil, I mean just what I say. My fanaticism is that I insist on the American people abolishing slavery, or ceasing to prate on the rights of man.”

William Lloyd Garrison

About This Quote

Source Speech: Anti‑Slavery Address, 1831, United States

The speaker declares personal moral independence, condemning collective evil and demanding the end of slavery as a divine imperative.

In simple terms: Refuse to follow the crowd when it does wrong; demand freedom.

Key Takeaway

Stand firm against injustice.

Themes

morality justice freedom individualism activism

Mood

determined passionate defiant

Type

political philosophical activist

When to use this quote

  • political rallies
  • civil rights campaigns
  • educational lectures
  • community organizing

Key Concepts

Abolitionism ethical absolutism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance moral conviction with pragmatic strategy?
  • What risks arise from uncompromising activism?
A Different Perspective

The stance may overlook nuanced approaches needed for societal change.

3.5 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by William Lloyd Garrison

Explore all 58 William Lloyd Garrison quotes

More Abolishing slavery quotes

Browse all 9 Abolishing slavery quotes