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
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
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and unity among people to reclaim power and identity.
Assata Shakur's quote highlights the journey of self-discovery and empowerment that individuals, particularly within the Black community, must undertake after facing systemic oppression. It underlines the significance of unity and collective action in reclaiming strength and identity, advocating for a society where individuals recognize their inherent beauty and power through solidarity.
Themes
UnityEmpowermentIdentityBeautyBlack PowerCollective Action
In practice
Example use cases
During a community event focused on social justice, this quote can inspire participants to reflect on their strength in unity.
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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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.
Assata ShakurRead
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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And if I know anything at all, it's that a wall is just a wall and nothing more at all. It can be broken down.
Assata ShakurRead
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