This question is significant in that DuBois points out that no matter the amount of work nor the amount of submission to the majority a race cannot reach their most potential when they are not afforded that same rights as those they are trying to establish equality with. When not given the same opportunity then no two can be equal. The criticism of Washingtons message from DuBois gave African Americans the knowledge that well enslaved and fighting in wars they already have more than enough right to be viewed as equal and should then be entitled to the same rights as their counterparts.

Here Dubois is arguing Washington's idea that African Americans should start from the bottom, that they should accommodate the white Southerner to prove their place in society. He is stating that Africans Americans must not sacrifice their respect, that becoming equal is more than showing the ability work and attribute to the economy but in order to do so they must be respected and fight for that respect.

Here it is being stated that African Americans need to not only want the ability to be equal, for all laws of the land to apply to them but they should want the ability to know how to use these laws and privileges for their prosperity. It's not just important to be equal in written legislation but it's important to be able to to take what was given and turn it into further equality, more rights, more opportunities, and seek congressional positions of higher power.

Mr. Washington although wanting the full prosperity of the freedmen, he is explaining that freedom does not automatically provide stairs to the top. He wants them to know they must work hard, start at what jobs can provide them the financial ability to build after starting with nothing. He wants the understanding that every job is important and every job will provide knowledge and skill necessary to begin climbing the ladder. As well, it's a statement to the white southerners that African Americans already possess the necessary skills to execute some of the more important jobs and labors if given the opportunity.

Booker T. Washington demonstrates that he does not The African American people to walk away from the South and give up. He wants them to stand firm and show how they can contribute. He is also demonstrating the necessity of the two races to not just co-exist but the need work together for Southern economic success.

Here Booker T. Washington is simply stating that when enslaved African Americans were trusted to run the fields and households of their enslavers. Now as freemen they want the same opportunity to show what they can accomplish independently, how they can add to the prosperity of the economy and overall civilization of America. He is asking for that chance to be equal businessmen, educators, laborers, and significant members of society.