God does not require us to achieve any of the good tasks that humanity must pursue. What God requires of us is that we not stop trying.
Bayard RustinRead
Twenty-five, 30 years ago, the barometer of human rights in the United States were black people. That is no longer true. The barometer for judging the character of people in regard to human rights is now those who consider themselves gay, homosexual, lesbian.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights a shift in societal focus regarding human rights from race to sexual orientation.
Bayard Rustin points out that, historically, the assessment of human rights in the United States has often focused on the struggles of black people. However, he suggests that over the past few decades, the focus has shifted to the rights and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community, indicating a broader understanding of human rights and a need to evaluate people based on their support and respect for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Themes
Human RightsLgbtqEqualitySocial JusticeRace
In practice
Example use cases
During a pride event, this quote could be shared to promote inclusivity.
More from Bayard Rustin
All quotes →If we desire a society without discrimination, then we must not discriminate against anyone in the process of building this society. If we desire a society that is democratic, then democracy must become a means as well as an end.
Bayard RustinRead
If we desire a society of peace, then we cannot achieve such a society through violence. If we desire a society without discrimination, then we must not discriminate against anyone in the process of building this society. If we desire a society that is democratic, then democracy must become a means as well as an end.
Bayard RustinRead
My activism did not spring from being black...The racial injustice that was present in this country during my youth was a challenge to my belief in the oneness of the human family.
Bayard RustinRead
I am an opponent of war and of war preparations and an opponent of universal military training and conscription; but entirely apart from that issue, I hold that segregation in any part of the body politic is an act of slavery and an act of war.
Bayard RustinRead
The proof that one truly believes is in action.
Bayard RustinRead
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