Hiram Rhodes Revels Quote

The responsibilities of being the exponent of such a constituency as I have the honor to represent are fully appreciated by me.... That feeling prompts me now to lift my voice for the first time in this council chamber of the nation; and I stand today on this floor to appeal for protection from the strong arm of the government for her loyal children, irrespective of color and race.

First speech before United States Senate (March 16, 1870)