Our Constitution is color-blind, and neither knows nor tolerates classes among citizens. In respect of civil rights, all citizens are equal before the law. The humblest is the peer of the most powerful.
John Marshall HarlanRead
But in view of the constitution, in the eye of the law, there is in this country no superior, dominant, ruling class of citizens. There is no caste here.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes equality before the law, rejecting the notion of a ruling class or caste system in society.
John Marshall Harlan's quote asserts the fundamental principle of legal equality in a democratic society. He argues that under the constitution and the law, no group of citizens holds superiority over others, highlighting the idea that every individual is entitled to equal rights and protections regardless of their background or status. This message champions the concept of a classless society where the law applies uniformly to all, reinforcing the importance of justice and equality in governance.
Themes
EqualityLawJusticeCitizenshipDemocracy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech advocating for civil rights.
More from John Marshall Harlan
All quotes →The law regards man as man, and takes no account of his surroundings or of his color when his civil rights as guaranteed by the supreme law of the land are involved.
John Marshall HarlanRead
The humblest is the peer of the most powerful.
John Marshall HarlanRead
The Constitution is colorblind, and neither knows nor tolerates classes among citizens.
John Marshall HarlanRead
Similar quotes
It is very iniquitous to make me pay my debts - you have no idea of the pain it gives one.
Lord ByronRead
In general, I agree with Socrates that what democracies badly need is the examined life, and we need to think critically about ourselves.
Martha NussbaumRead
I have a heart to be stabbed in or shot in, I have no doubt, and, of course, if it ceased to beat, I would cease to be. But you know what I mean. I have no softness there, no—sympathy—sentiment—nonsense.
Charles DickensRead
God’s purpose is “to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.”2 That is fundamental to all we do. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in things that we find fascinating or become so consumed by mundane responsibilities that we lose sight of God’s objectives. As you consistently focus your life on the most basic principles, you will gain an understanding of what you are to do, and you will produce more fruit for the Lord and more happiness for yourself.
Richard G. ScottRead
The worse I am, the more I need God. I can't shut myself out from His mercy. That is what it would mean; starting a life with you, without Him. Julia to Charles
Evelyn WaughRead
Secrecy is for losers. . . . It is time to dismantle government secrecy, this most persuasive of Cold War-era regulations. It is time to begin building the supports for the era of openness that is already upon us.
Daniel Patrick MoynihanRead