Principles Matter — Equality
This article is part of our Principled Voter series.
A principled voter asks: Does this candidate value equality?
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” — The Declaration of Independence
What is equality? We are all “alike unto God.” Democracy puts equality into practice. Equality means every citizen can participate in the political process and has a right to freedom, peace, and justice — not just in word but in action.
What is at stake? People matter. We all deserve to be treated with respect, to have opportunities to thrive, and to enjoy equal protection under the law. The principle of equality allows each of us to reach our full potential — it benefits the individual and our nation as a whole.
Why does it matter?
- Equal protection under the law is protective and allows us to retain hope that justice will prevail.
- Equal representation allows us to elect leaders who will protect the vulnerable and not give unfair advantage to the powerful. It also means we can hold our leaders accountable when they do not represent us well.
- Equal opportunity provides economic benefits both to individuals and to our society as a whole. It reduces disparity between races, genders, and classes.
How can I tell if this candidate values equality?
- They prioritize efforts that move us toward our shared goal of full equality for all.
- They advocate for all Americans and recognize that our nation is stronger when we offer the opportunity and freedom necessary to flourish to all citizens equally.
- They cooperate with people who have a variety of perspectives and backgrounds. They treat all people with dignity and respect and do not blame problems on specific identity groups.
No candidate is perfect, but some value equality more than others.
Patterns can reveal a commitment to principles. How can we determine if a candidate values equality?
- Do they uphold laws and systems that support the equality promised by the Constitution and revise those that don’t?
- Do they support the rights and freedoms of all people, including minority groups, or do they prioritize the will of those with money, power, or access?
- Do they actively engage with social issues and seek to understand the realities of different communities, or do they seem isolated from social problems?
“Everybody counts in applying democracy. And there will never be a true democracy until every responsible and law-abiding adult in it, without regard to race, sex, color, or creed, has his or her own inalienable and unpurchasable voice in government.” — Carrie Chapman Catt
Principled voters are “golden rule” voters. They consider whether their vote will harm others, and they use their vote to create a better shared future.
Voting for candidates who articulate a vision of full equality, and who reach across divides to include everyone in our nation’s future, will help us build the beloved community.
Principles matter. Hope votes.
