And since we all know that natural rights can not be made secure except through political rights, shall not the ballot—the freeman’s weapon in peace—replace the bayonet—the freeman’s weapon in war?
He asserts that political rights are essential for securing natural rights.
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Never was there a problem more serious or difficult than that which is now before the Nation, as to this race, whose destiny has been confided to the wisdom and honor of our Government.
He who has that right will usually respect himself more, be more respected, perform more, and more productive work, and do more to increase the wealth and welfare of the community, than he who has it not.
And it is both natural and right that colored Americans, entitled to the rights of citizens, should claim their exercise.
It has proved, also, that universal suffrage is the surest guarantee and most powerful stimulus of individual, social and political progress.