Response to the Black Law
Connecticut Courant
The Unionist 1833-08-08
Unionist content
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Transcription
If the provisions of this law can be reconciled with the nature of our government, or the principles of common justice, we greatly mistake its character. We know not on what grounds the distinction which it makes can be justified. Why should one portion of our community be deprived of privileges enjoyed by others, merely on account of a difference of complexion? If there is any good reason for the restrictions embraced in the law, let them at least extend to schools and seminaries of every description; let all fare alike, the white as well as the black. But let not the latter be visited with pains and penalties while the former are exempt. As to the clamor which is raised about the fanaticism of those who are friendly to the instruction of the blacks, or the sneers and censures so liberally bestowed upon Miss Crandall, they cannot, even if well founded, alter the character of the law. The correctness of their view, and the expediency of their measures, are different questions from the justice of the law by which it is proposed to counteract them. The indiscretion of individuals, allowing them to exist, are no justification of a legal enactment unequal, oppressive and wrong in its provisions, and at war with the genius of our republican institutions. In some of the papers from the slave states, the law as was to be expected, is commended; it is seen to be in accordance with the rigorous measures adopted under a system of slavery—but in other sections of our country, it is strongly condemned, and regarded as a shame and reproach to our state.” – Connecticut Courant
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The Connecticut Courant was arguably the flagship newspaper of the state, so its support for the cause of Crandall was signficant.
