We go into rural communities and all we do, like has been done in this room, is create the space. When these girls sit, you unlock intelligence, you unlock passion, you unlock commitment, you unlock focus, you unlock great leaders.
Leymah GboweeRead
Activism is something that no one can fake. You get angry. You cry. But you never throw in your towel, because that anger is what is propelling you to further action.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Activism is a sincere and passionate response to injustice that cannot be imitated, driving individuals to take real action.
In this quote, Leymah Gbowee emphasizes the authenticity and deep emotional investment required for true activism. She suggests that genuine activism stems from strong feelings like anger and sadness, which serve as a powerful catalyst for taking meaningful action against injustice. The phrase 'never throw in your towel' indicates the perseverance needed in the face of challenges, highlighting the unwavering commitment that defines real activists.
Themes
ActivismAngerPerseveranceActionCommitment
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about community engagement, this quote can inspire audience members to take action against social injustices.
More from Leymah Gbowee
All quotes →Leadership is standing with your people. People say you have to live to fight another day, but sometimes you have to show you are a true leader.
Leymah GboweeRead
At 17, the first time I saw a dead body, I froze. By 31 it was a natural occurrence for me, and no group of people should live like that.
Leymah GboweeRead
I always tell people, anger is like liquid. It's fluid, it's like water. You put it in a container and it takes the shape of that container. So many people you see in prison, unleashing war on their people, they are angry, and they take their anger and put it into a violent container.
Leymah GboweeRead
The one thing I have never been afraid of is standing before important people and speaking my mind. I represent women who may never have the opportunity to go to the UN or meet with a president. I'm never afraid to speak truth to power.
Leymah GboweeRead
When women gather, great things will happen.
Leymah GboweeRead
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