If discrimination based on race is constitutionally permissible when those who hold the reins can come up with "compelling" reasons to justify it, then constitutional guarantees acquire an accordion-like quality.
![If discrimination based on race is constitutionally permissible when those who hold the reins can come up with compelling reasons to justify it, then constitutional guarantees acquire an accordion-like quality.](http://cdn.myquotes.org/images/william-o-douglas/if-discrimination-based-on-race-is-constitutionally-permissible-when-those-who-hold-the-reins-can-come-up-with-compelling-reasons.jpg)
If discrimination based on race is constitutionally permissible when those who hold the reins can come up with "compelling" reasons to justify it, then constitutional guarantees acquire an accordion-like quality.