Attack those concepts such as 'third world.' Think about it. If we look at it in terms of numbers, then people of color are the majority in this world. We should be the 'first world.'
H. Rap BrownRead
But black people fall for that same argument, and they go around talking about law breakers. We did not make the laws in this country. We are neither morally nor legally confined to those laws. Those laws that keep them up, keep us down.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote addresses the systemic injustices within legal systems that disadvantage marginalized groups.
H. Rap Brown's quote highlights the disparity between the laws created in society and the experiences of black people who are often unfairly judged as law breakers. He asserts that these laws were imposed upon them and do not reflect their moral or legal standings, but rather serve to maintain an oppressive system that uplifts some while disadvantaging others.
Themes
LawsJusticeInequalityOppressionSystemic Injustice
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about social justice movements, this quote could be used to emphasize the need for systemic change.
More from H. Rap Brown
All quotes →I say violence is necessary. Violence is a part of America's culture. It is as American as cherry pie. Americans taught the black people to be violent. We will use that violence to rid ourselves of oppression if necessary. We will be free, by any means necessary.
H. Rap BrownRead
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