Violence has no constitutional sanction; and every government from the beginning has moved against it. But where grievances pile high and most of the elected spokesmen represent the Establishment, violence may be the only effective response.

Summary

This quote suggests that violence is not supported or sanctioned by any constitution, and historically, governments have actively opposed it. However, in situations where grievances are severe and those elected into power represent the established order, violence may be seen as the only viable means of addressing those issues effectively. It highlights the idea that when peaceful channels for change and representation are closed off, individuals may resort to violence as a last resort to bring attention to and address their grievances.