eserving of Thy mercy. Make it precious and near to Thee
through Thy bounty and bestowal.

30 April 1912
Talk at Hull House
Chicago, Illinois

Notes by Joseph H. Hannen

When we view the world of creation, we find that all living things may be
classified under two aspects of existence. First, they possess bodies
composed of material substance common to all--whether vegetable, animal or
human. This is their point of agreement or, as it is philosophically
termed, their point of contact. Second, they vary and differ from each
other in degree and function--that is to say, in their respective kingdoms.
This is their point of distinction and differentiation. For instance, the
vegetable and animal are alike in the fact that their bodies are composed
of the same material elements but widely different in their kingdoms and
powers. Man is like the animal in physical structure but otherwise
immeasurably separated and superior.

In the human kingdom itself there are points of contact, properties common
to all mankind; likewise, there are points of distinction which separate
race from race, individual from individual. If the points of contact,
which are the common properties of humanity, overcome the peculiar points
of distinction, unity is assured. On the other hand, if the points of
differentiation overcome the points of agreement, disunion and weakness
result. One of the important questions which affect the unity and the
solidarity of mankind is the fellowship and equality of the white and
colored races. Between these two races certain points of agreement and
points of distinction exist which warrant just and mutual consideration.
The points of contact are many; for in the material or physical plane of
being, both are constituted alike and exist under the same law of growth
and bodily development. Furthermore, both live and move in the plane of
the senses and are endowed with human intelligence. There are many other
mutual qualifications. In this country, the United States of America,
patriotism is common to both races; all have equal rights to citizenship,
speak one language, receive the blessings of the same civilization, and
follow the precepts of the same religion. In fact numerous points of
partnership and agreement exist between the two races; whereas the one
point of distinction is that of color. Shall this, the least of all
distinctions, be allowed to separate you as races and individuals? In
physical bodies,