If freedom makes social progress possible, so social progress strengthens and enlarges freedom. The two are inseparable partners in the great adventure of humanity.
Our attitude towards immigration reflects our faith in the American ideal. We have always believed it possible for men and women who start at the bottom to rise as far as the talent and energy allow. Neither race nor place of birth should affect their chances.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the belief in equal opportunity for all immigrants, asserting that hard work and talent should determine success, regardless of background.
Robert Kennedy's quote advocates for the American ideal of equal opportunity, stressing that one's race or origin should not hinder their ability to succeed. By highlighting the importance of attitude towards immigration, Kennedy underscores the necessity of believing in potential and meritocracy, suggesting that America provides a platform for individuals, regardless of their starting point in life, to achieve their dreams based purely on their abilities and determination.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about national unity and strength.
More from Robert Kennedy
All quotes →Elections remind us not only of the rights but the responsibilities of citizenship in a democracy.
Within the United States, we have put great emphasis upon political freedoms. Because it has been our experience that these freedoms can lead to others.
It is one thing to open job opportunities. It is another to train people to fill them, or to persuade American enterprise to seek Negro as well as white applicants.
The Gross National Product measures neither our wit nor our courage, neither our wisdom nor our learning, neither our compassion nor our devotion to our country. It measures everything, in short, except that which makes life worthwhile, and it can tell us everything about America - except whether we are proud to be Americans.
The United States was born in revolution and nurtured by struggle. Throughout our history, the American people have befriended and supported all those who seek independence and a better way of life.
Similar quotes
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Lost, lost! one moment knelled the woe of years.