One aspect of the civil-rights struggle that receives little attention is the contribution it makes to the whole society. The Negro in winning rights for himself produces substantial benefits for the nation.

We are not actually equal - humanity - if we are not allowed to freely love one another.

Give us the ballot, and we will no longer have to worry the federal government about our basic rights.

There will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights.

This note was a promise that all men, yes black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

If America is to remain a first-class nation, it cannot have second-class citizens.