In South Africa, I feel I am a stranger, at best an animal.
Oliver TamboRead
We had to forge an alliance of strength based not on colour but on commitment to the total abolition of apartheid and oppression; we would seek allies, of whatever colour, as long as they were totally agreed on our liberation aims.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of collaboration across racial lines to achieve the goal of ending apartheid and oppression.
Oliver Tambo highlights the necessity of forming a united front against apartheid, stressing that alliances should be based on a shared commitment to freedom rather than superficial differences like skin color. This underscores the importance of solidarity and collective action in the fight for justice and equality.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of unity in social justice movements.
In South Africa, I feel I am a stranger, at best an animal.
The more pressure you bring from without, the less internal pressure is necessary.
The sanctions will not kill us. It's apartheid that's killing us.
How do you deal with a criminal that will not listen to what you have to say and who continues his policy of violence? Some say you continue to talk and let him tire himself out. But nearly 40 years after the institution of apartheid, is there anyone who still believes that verbal persuasion will work?
The U.S. is the last country that should see itself as an ally of the apartheid system.
It was of limited usefulness to head great rallies. The government did not listen, and, soon enough, the tear gas and the muzzles of the guns were turned against the people. The justice of our cries went unrecognized.
It will be the people with the greatest love, not the most information, who will influence us to change.
What does it look like to build a city, state, or nation invested in communities thriving rather than their death and destruction? To ask this question is the first act of an abolitionist.
We are - each and every one of us - unlearning misogyny. It's going to take some time. But be aware and active of your prejudices. Notice when they kick in and resist. Fight to stay soft and open. Step back and squint hard.
Do you know anyone who hasn't changed his mind? This door was a tree, then it will be firewood for someone, then it will return to air and earth. We're all like that, constantly changing. It's simply honest to report that you've changed your mind when you have. When you're afraid of what people will think if you speak honestly, that's where you become confused.
Never believe that a few caring people can't change the world. For, indeed, that's all who ever have.
We have not yet arrived, but every point at which we stop requires a re-definition of our destination.
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