Speech #870002636

Many of us believe very strongly in the basic principles behind the 14th and 15th amendmentsthe equality of all citizens under the law. We believe there should be no firstclass citizens and no secondclass citizens. but that all citizens should be on a plane of equality and be judged on their merits. That is the essence of the first sentence of the 14th amendment which states: All persons born or naturalized in the United States. and subject to the jurisdiction thereof. are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. There are many of us who believe very intensely in the last pledge of the 14th amendment that no person shall be deprived by any State of his right to the equal protection of the law. We believe also in the 15th amendment. that no person shall be deprived of the right to vote because of race. color. or previous condition of servitude.