The word 'equality' shows up too much in our founding documents for anyone to pretend it's not the American way.

Martha Plimpton’s quote, "The word 'equality' shows up too much in our founding documents for anyone to pretend it's not the American way," emphasizes the centrality of equality in the principles upon which the United States was founded. Plimpton argues that equality is not just an ideal but a foundational value embedded in key documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The frequent reference to equality in these texts makes it clear that the concept is an essential part of the nation's identity, making it difficult for anyone to deny its importance in American ideals.

The quote suggests that the concept of equality is woven into the DNA of American society, as seen in phrases like "all men are created equal" from the Declaration of Independence. Plimpton is calling out those who attempt to sideline or ignore the principle of equality, particularly in debates over civil rights and social justice. By pointing to the prominence of the term in the founding documents, she underscores that any effort to move away from equality contradicts the very essence of what America was built upon.

The origin of this quote lies in Plimpton’s active involvement in social justice and activism. Known for her outspoken views on human rights, feminism, and LGBTQ+ rights, Plimpton has used her platform to advocate for equality in various forms. As a prominent actress and activist, she has been vocal about the importance of upholding the values outlined in America’s foundational documents, particularly when it comes to equal rights for all citizens.

Ultimately, Plimpton’s statement is a call to action, reminding people that equality is not a modern or partisan concept, but a core principle enshrined in the very foundation of the United States. By citing its frequent appearance in the nation’s founding documents, she insists that anyone who seeks to undermine equality is ignoring the true spirit of American democracy.