“Under our constitutional system, courts stand against any winds that blow as havens of refuge for those who might otherwise suffer because they are helpless, weak, outnumbered, or because they are non-conforming victims of prejudice and public excitement…No higher duty, or more solemn responsibility rests upon this Court than that of translating into living law and maintaining this constitutional shield deliberately planned and inscribed for the benefit of every human being subject to our Constitution — of whatever race, creed, or persuasion.”

—  Hugo Black

Writing for the court, Chambers v. Florida, 309 U.S. 227 (1940).

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Hugo Black 26
U.S. Supreme Court justice 1886–1971

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