I think people conflate dignity and respect.

Every human is entitled to base level dignity which is why we believe in and fight for natural rights.

I respect someone that is virtuous skilled at their craft, honest, a positive influence in their community.

I do not respect everyone in fact I respect very few since this is clown world. But I do recognize the dignity in all children of god.

If respect is given to all with no proof of work it is worthless. This in my opinion was one of the most insightful themes from Ayn Rand’s work.