Hillsdale College Hosts Civil Rights Hostel Program

Hillsdale, Mich. — Guests attended a Hillsdale Hostel on “Civil Rights in America” at Hillsdale College’s Allan P. Kirby, Jr. Center for Constitutional Studies and Citizenship in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 20-23. Speakers David Azerrad, assistant professor and research fellow at the Hillsdale College Van Andel Graduate School of Government, and Lucas E. Morel, the Worsham Teaching Fellow at Hillsdale College, addressed the meaning of the term “civil rights” and the confusion that often surrounds it.

“Many have come to believe civil rights only apply to racial minorities, women, and the so-called LGBTQ, and that their goal is to eliminate discrimination,” said Azerrad. “In truth, civil rights are for all Americans — they are the means by which the government secures the core, inalienable rights of the people to allow them to pursue happiness.”

Morel concurred and argued that the Declaration of Independence affirms all human beings are endowed by their Creator with the equal rights of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” This makes clear that the purpose of government to secure, not grant, those natural rights of each member of the political community.

“That security, when codified in law and enforced by the executive and judicial branches of government, is what is meant by ‘civil rights,’” Morel said.

Hillsdale Hostels — sometimes referred to as “learning vacations” — are events in which participants from across the country spend time with Hillsdale College professors exploring the ideas and principles that built and sustain our country. The “Civil Rights in America” seminar included six lectures, plus meals, and an excursion to President Lincoln’s Cottage.

Hillsdale College hosts regular Hostels at three locations: the Kirby Center in Washington, D.C., Rockwell Lake Lodge in Northern Lower Michigan, and the main college campus in Hillsdale, Michigan. Learn more about Hillsdale Hostels at hillsdale.edu/educational-outreach/hillsdale-hostel.

Find headshots of the lecturers here.