If we desire a society in which men are brothers, then we must act towards one another with brotherhood. If we can build such a society, then we would have achieved the ultimate goal of human freedom.

In this quote, Bayard Rustin argues that in order to create a society where men are brothers, people must first act with brotherhood toward one another. This means treating each other with kindness, respect, and equality, fostering an environment of unity and solidarity. Rustin is emphasizing that the values of compassion and mutual support are essential to building a society that transcends divisions and achieves true equality.

Rustin also suggests that this vision of brotherhood is directly tied to the broader concept of human freedom. For him, true freedom isn't just about individual liberty, but about creating a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, and where people work together for the collective good. Achieving a society based on brotherhood would, in his view, be the ultimate expression of freedom, as it would guarantee equality and justice for all.

By using the term brotherhood, Rustin invokes the idea of community and shared responsibility. It’s not enough for individuals to simply seek their own freedom; the freedom of one person is interconnected with the freedom of others. This interconnectedness calls for cooperation and solidarity in the fight for a more just and equitable world. The concept of brotherhood implies a recognition of shared humanity and a commitment to mutual support.

Ultimately, Rustin’s quote calls for a transformational shift in how we relate to one another. It suggests that the path to freedom and equality requires not only systemic change but also a change in how we interact with one another on a personal level, cultivating a culture of understanding and respect that can lay the foundation for a truly just society.