Some years ago I said in an opinion that if this country is a melting pot, then either the Afro-Americans didn't get in the pot or he didn't get melted down.

None of us got where we are solely by pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps.

The First Amendment serves not only the needs of the polity but also those of the human spirit - a spirit that demands self-expression .

Classifications and distinctions based on race or color have no moral or legal validity in our society. They are contrary to our constitution and laws.

Sometimes history takes things into its own hands.

We can always stick together when we are losing, but tend to find means of breaking up when we're winning. In Grace under Pressure, by Hastie, 1984.

I'm the world's original gradualist. I just think ninety-odd years is gradual enough.