Atticus Finch's Closing Argument In Defending Tom Robinson

Atticus Finch’s Closing Argument in Defending Tom Robinson Ladies and gentleman of the court, thank you for your service and attention. Many years ago, Hinmatonyalaktit, also known as Chief Joseph, said, “The earth is the mother of all people and all people shall have equal rights upon it.” Therefore not only whites, but all people, regardless of the colour of their skin, deserve to have the same privileges, the same opportunities, and the same rights. And so I stand here today in the interest of defending Tom Robinson, a Negro man, who is convicted for the alleged crime of having raped Mayella Ewell. It shall be my duty today not only to prove that Tom has committed no crime, but also to help reveal to you this prejudiced and unjust reality we live in today. Tom, here, is not guilty of rape, but is merely a victim of the cruel, biased thoughts of a white society. I hope all of you can find it in your …show more content…
It is obvious that Tom is innocent as no evidence was found to support the prosecutor’s accusations. Tom is here today simply because it is a black man’s word against a white man’s, and the white man’s words automatically overshadow the black man’s. However the colour of one’s skin should not define one’s identity and should not be a factor in this trial. If Tom Robinson were to possess the same talents, the same abilities and the same skills as a white man, he would still be looked down upon simply because he is black. Tom Robinson, along with every Negro today, is still chained to the cruel and inhuman prejudices of a white society. We, all of God’s children, need to put an end to the cruelty and inequality, together. However, we can only move forward as a whole. I speak not only to those who experience this injustice, but also to those who take part in it. The decisions made in this court today will not only affect Tom, but all people, as we can all benefit and live in harmony,