The Abolition of Slavery Persuasive Speech
Mr. Speaker, I rise to present a petition from citizens of Vermont, praying for the abolition of slavery
and the slave trade in the District of Columbia.
I am aware that the presentation of this petition may be regarded by some as an offence; but I am
not to be deterred from the performance of my duty by threats or intimidation. The right of petition is
secured to us by the Constitution, and I shall exercise that right.
The question before us is one of great importance. Slavery exists within the District of Columbia,
under the authority of Congress, and Congress has power over the District. If Congress has power
to legislate for the District, it has power to abolish slavery there.
Slavery is not a necessary institution. It is contrary to the principles of liberty upon which our
government was founded, and it is the duty of a free people to remove it wherever they possess the
constitutional authority to do so.
I ask the House to look at the subject without passion, but with a determination to do justice. We
cannot proclaim liberty to the world while permitting slavery to exist under the immediate jurisdiction
of the national government.
The District of Columbia is the seat of the national government. If there is any place in this country
where the principles of freedom should be maintained, it is here.
I do not ask that the rights of any State be invaded. I ask only that Congress exercise the authority
which the Constitution has expressly placed in its hands over this District, and that the institution of
slavery be abolished here.
The cause of freedom must ultimately prevail. The question is not whether slavery can be defended
by arguments of interest or expediency, but whether a republic founded upon liberty can
consistently maintain human bondage where it has the constitutional power to end it.
