Meaning: The quote "Carry out the republican principle of universal suffrage, or strike it from your banners and substitute 'Freedom and Power to one half of society, and Submission and Slavery to the other.'" by Ernestine Rose, an activist, encapsulates the essence of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and women's rights. Ernestine Rose, a 19th-century feminist, abolitionist, and atheist, was a prominent voice in advocating for the rights of women and marginalized groups. This quote reflects her unwavering commitment to the principle of universal suffrage and the rejection of any system that perpetuates inequality and subjugation.

Ernestine Rose's call to "carry out the republican principle of universal suffrage" is a direct challenge to the prevailing social and political norms of her time, which systematically excluded women from the right to vote and participate in the democratic process. The concept of universal suffrage, or the right of all adult citizens to vote in elections, was a revolutionary idea that sought to dismantle the existing power structures that disenfranchised women and other marginalized groups. By advocating for universal suffrage, Rose aimed to dismantle the barriers that prevented women from fully engaging in the governance of their society.

The latter part of the quote, "or strike it from your banners and substitute 'Freedom and Power to one half of society, and Submission and Slavery to the other,'" serves as a stark warning about the consequences of denying universal suffrage. Rose's use of strong language, such as "Submission and Slavery," highlights the severity of the injustice faced by women who were denied the right to vote and participate in political decision-making. By juxtaposing "Freedom and Power" with "Submission and Slavery," Rose exposes the inherent inequality and oppression perpetuated by the denial of universal suffrage.

In the context of the 19th century, when women were often confined to domestic roles and denied basic rights, Rose's words were a powerful indictment of the status quo. Her message reverberates through history, challenging societies to confront the systemic injustices that persist in denying equal rights and opportunities to all members of society.

Ernestine Rose's advocacy for universal suffrage was deeply intertwined with her broader commitment to social justice and equality. As an activist, she fought not only for women's rights but also for the abolition of slavery, the rights of workers, and the separation of church and state. Her quote encapsulates the interconnectedness of these struggles, emphasizing that the denial of universal suffrage perpetuates a system of oppression that affects not only women but also other marginalized groups.

In contemporary society, the principles articulated by Ernestine Rose remain relevant as the fight for gender equality and universal suffrage continues. Despite significant progress, women in many parts of the world still face barriers to political participation and are underrepresented in positions of power. The legacy of Rose's words serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to achieve true equality and justice for all members of society.

In conclusion, Ernestine Rose's quote embodies the enduring spirit of advocacy for universal suffrage and gender equality. Her words continue to inspire and challenge us to confront the systemic inequalities that persist in denying equal rights and opportunities to all members of society. As we strive for a more just and equitable world, the principles articulated by Rose serve as a guiding light, urging us to uphold the republican principle of universal suffrage and reject any system that perpetuates inequality and oppression.