The Foundation of Equality and Fairness

The High Creed of Equality

The highest creed and ethic of this nation is enshrined in the preamble of its founding document: "We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal; endowed with certain inalienable rights by their creator." This profound declaration sets the stage for the pursuit of becoming our best selves by recognizing and upholding the inherent dignity and equality of every individual.

Moral Failings and the Violation of Equality

The nation's greatest sins, both at home and abroad, stem from its failure to live up to this creed. The most egregious and heinous acts are directly linked to moments when this fundamental truth is disregarded. Whether through legal injustices, economic disparities, or social inequalities, the violation of this principle marks the nation's darkest chapters.

Equality Before the Law

The equality referenced in the Declaration of Independence is fundamentally about equality before the law. It asserts that every individual, regardless of their social status or wealth, should have equal standing in a court of justice. This principle is the foundation of the saying "justice is blind," emphasizing that justice should not be influenced by external factors.

Core Human Dignity

The concept of equality before the law speaks to the inherent value and core human dignity of every citizen. This core dignity is rooted in the belief that all individuals are image-bearers of the Most High God. Recognizing this inherent worth is essential for fostering a society where every person has the opportunity to become their best self.

Oppression through Legal Inequality

The most effective way to oppress an individual or a group is to deny them equal protection under the law. As previously stated, this nation's highest creed is the belief that all men are created equal and endowed with inalienable rights by their Creator. The greatest moral failings occur when this principle is violated, whether through discriminatory laws, unequal access to justice, or systemic injustices. In the journey to becoming our best selves, we must consistently strive to uphold the principle of equality. This involves recognizing the inherent worth of every individual and ensuring that our legal and social systems reflect this fundamental truth. By doing so, we create a society where each person has the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their potential.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we will delve deeper into the concepts of individual rights and fulfillment, drawing from the philosophical insights of John Locke and examining the critical role of constitutional protections.