When you go through all your life processing and abusing your hair so it will look like the hair of another race of people then you are making a statement and the statement is clear
Assata ShakurRead
I am a 20th century escaped slave. Because of government persecution, I was left with no other choice than to flee from the political repression, racism and violence that dominate the U.S. government’s policy towards people of color.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote speaks to the struggles and resilience of individuals facing oppression and injustice.
Assata Shakur's quote illustrates the profound impact of systemic oppression, specifically highlighting the experiences of people of color in the United States. She metaphorically identifies herself as an 'escaped slave,' which powerfully emphasizes her plight against the political repression, racism, and violence ingrained in government policies. This statement serves as both a testament to her courage in seeking freedom and a critical reflection on the ongoing struggles against injustice.
Themes
OppressionFreedomRacismResilienceCourage
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a speech on civil rights and the importance of standing against oppression.
More from Assata Shakur
All quotes →Part of being a revolutionary is creating a vision that is more humane. That is more fun, too. That is more loving. It's really working to create something beautiful.
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We had to learn that we're beautiful. We had to relearn something forcefully taken from us. We had to learn about Black power. People have power if we unite. We learned the importance of coming together and being active
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I was sentenced to life plus 30 years by an all-White jury. What I saw in prison was wall-to-wall Black flesh in chains. Women caged in cells. But we're the terrorists. It just doesn't make sense.
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My life wasn't beautiful and creative before I became politically active. My life was totally changed when I began to struggle.
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Peace is a rare gift. Peace of mind, peaceful sleeps, and peaceful spirits are all luxuries that few rebels can ever afford.
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