“Malo periculosam, libertatem quam quietam servitutem.”
The quote you’re referring to is likely this one from Thomas Jefferson:
“I prefer dangerous freedom over peaceful slavery.”
This quote is commonly paraphrased as “Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety,” though that particular version is often attributed to Benjamin Franklin. Jefferson’s sentiment, however, echoes a similar belief in the value of liberty even when it comes with risk.