The barometer for judging the character of people, in regard human rights, is now those who consider themselves gay, homosexual, lesbian. The judgment as to whether you can trust the future, the social advancement - depending on people - will be judged on where they come out on that question.

The quote by Bayard Rustin, a prominent civil rights leader and LGBTQ+ advocate, emphasizes the importance of how people treat those in the gay, homosexual, and lesbian communities as a measure of their character. Rustin suggests that the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals has become a critical barometer for judging the moral and ethical values of society. He argues that the stance people take on LGBTQ+ rights will determine whether they can be trusted to support broader social advancement and progress in the future.

Rustin’s statement reflects his belief that true justice and equality in society depend on how we treat the most marginalized groups, particularly in regard to human rights. By linking the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals to trust in the future, he highlights the idea that societal progress is contingent on acceptance, respect, and the removal of discrimination. For Rustin, the fight for LGBTQ+ rights was inseparable from the broader struggle for civil rights and equality.

The origin of this quote comes from Rustin’s lifelong commitment to activism, particularly in the areas of racial equality and LGBTQ+ rights. As an openly gay man during the Civil Rights Movement, he often faced criticism for his sexuality but remained steadfast in his belief that the fight for equality must be inclusive. Rustin believed that social progress could not be achieved without addressing the discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, who were often left out of mainstream movements for civil rights.

Ultimately, Rustin’s quote serves as a reminder that the true measure of a society’s moral character is found in how it treats its most vulnerable members. The way we view and support the LGBTQ+ community directly reflects our commitment to justice, equality, and a better future for all. It calls for a deeper understanding that human rights and social advancement are intertwined, and progress cannot be achieved without inclusion.