The Negro's great stumbling block in the drive toward freedom is not the White Citizens Councilor or the Ku Klux Klanner but the white moderate who is more devoted to order than to justice.

Summary

This quote, often attributed to Martin Luther King Jr., highlights the significant role played by the white moderate in obstructing the progress of African Americans in their pursuit of freedom and equality. While overt racists and hate groups are typically seen as the main adversaries, this quote suggests that the real obstacle lies in those who prioritize maintaining social order over fighting for justice. By doing so, the quote implies that the white moderate perpetuates systemic racism and hinders the advancement of civil rights for marginalized communities.

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