Meaning: In this quote, Hubert Humphrey, a prominent American politician, is addressing the urgency and necessity of addressing civil rights issues. The quote reflects the sentiment that there has been a long-standing delay in addressing civil rights, and that the time for action is long overdue. Hubert Humphrey's words illustrate a sense of impatience and frustration with the slow progress in achieving civil rights for all individuals.

Hubert Humphrey, who served as the Vice President of the United States under President Lyndon B. Johnson, was a passionate advocate for civil rights and played a key role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Throughout his career, he was known for his unwavering dedication to equality and justice, making this quote a powerful reflection of his commitment to the civil rights movement.

The quote encapsulates the urgency that many activists and advocates have felt in the fight for civil rights. The notion that "we are 172 years late" speaks to the long history of systemic inequality and injustice that marginalized communities have endured. By invoking a specific number of years, Humphrey emphasizes the deep-rooted nature of the civil rights struggle, highlighting that it has been ongoing for generations.

Humphrey's words also serve as a reminder that the struggle for civil rights is not a new or recent phenomenon. The United States was founded 172 years before Humphrey's statement, and yet the full realization of civil rights for all citizens remained unrealized. By acknowledging this historical context, Humphrey underscores the need for immediate and decisive action to rectify the long-standing injustices that have persisted for far too long.

The quote can be interpreted as a call to confront the uncomfortable truths of the past and to address the legacy of discrimination and oppression that has shaped society. It challenges the notion of patience and gradual progress, instead advocating for a sense of urgency and determination in addressing civil rights issues.

Humphrey's words continue to resonate in contemporary discussions about civil rights and social justice. The quote serves as a reminder that the struggle for equality is an ongoing battle, and that there is a moral imperative to confront and rectify the injustices of the past. It also underscores the importance of not relenting in the face of resistance or complacency, but rather pressing forward with determination and resolve.

In conclusion, Hubert Humphrey's quote encapsulates the impatience and urgency felt by many in the fight for civil rights. It serves as a powerful reminder of the long history of inequality and the pressing need for immediate action to address these issues. The quote has continued relevance in contemporary discussions about civil rights and remains a poignant call to confront and rectify the injustices of the past.