Speech #480009217

I would give to their motives and to the natural feelings of mankind in their situation the most charitable construction. I would give to them all the political power they ever enjoyed. and. without unkindness. or pains. or penalties. or even reproaches. I would extend to them every right. favor. or facility that is enjoyed by any citizen in any part of our country. but when this concession is made to them I would demand that in the States under their control the freedom and equality of rights and privileges guaranteed by the Constitution and the laws to all citizens. white or black. native or naturalized. poor or rich. .ignorant or learned. Republican or Democrat. shall be secured by the State government. or. if not. that their rights and privileges shall be asserted and maintained by the National Government. Upon this issue I would appeal to every generousminded man. to every lover of his country. to every one who wishes to enjoy his own rights by his own fireside free from embarrassment. to stand by those who. yielding to others the protection of the laws in the enjoyment of equal rights. will demand the same for themselves and for their associates.