We cling to our
oppressors, as the objects of our love. It is true that our enslaved
brethren are here, and we have been led to believe that it is necessary
for us to remain, on that account. Is it true, that all should remain in
degradation, because a part are degraded? We believe no such thing. We
believe it to be the duty of the Free, to elevate themselves in the most
speedy and effective manner possible; as the redemption of the bondman
depends entirely upon the elevation of the freeman; therefore, to
elevate the free colored people of America, anywhere upon this
continent; forebodes the speedy redemption of the slaves. We shall hope
to hear no more of so fallacious a doctrine--the necessity of the free
remaining in degradation, for the sake of the oppressed. Let us apply,
first, the lever to ourselves; and the force that elevates us to the
position of manhood's considerations and honors, will cleft the manacle
of every slave in the land.
When such great worth and talents--for want of a better sphere--of men
like Rev. Jonathan Robinson, Robert Douglass, Frederick A. Hinton, and a
hundred others that might be named, were permitted to expire in a
barber-shop; and such living men as may be found in Boston, New York,
Philadelphia, Baltimore, Richmond, Washington City, Charleston, (S.
Pages:
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229
230
231
232
233
234
235
236
237
238
239
240
241
242
243