Everyone in the street where I grew up was given the same message: You can be anything; you can do anything. That wasn't extraordinary; that was ordinary for us. My folks didn't believe in black exceptionalism. There's nothing exceptional about 'You can have that, too' - except when it comes to justice. You can't have that.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the belief in limitless potential, contrasted with the systemic barriers to justice.
Yance Ford emphasizes the importance of a supportive environment where individuals are encouraged to strive for their dreams, highlighting that this was a normal experience in his upbringing. However, he poignantly draws attention to the inequalities present in society, specifically regarding justice, suggesting that while everyone is told they can achieve greatness, the reality is that systemic issues prevent equitable access to opportunities.
In practice
During a graduation speech to inspire students about overcoming obstacles.
I hope that audiences understand that there is a precariousness to black lives in this country that we need to address, that there has always been a precariousness to black lives in this country that we need to address. In fact, our country is built on the precariousness of black lives, the disposability of black lives.
We are vegans not simply because being vegan will reduce suffering. We are vegan because every sentient being values her or his life even if no one else does. We are vegan because justice minimally requires that we not take life for trivial purposes.
The sciences are the 'how,' and the humanities are the 'why' - why are we here, why do we believe in the things we believe in. I don't think you can have the 'how' without the 'why.'
Americanism is not a matter of skin or color.
My personal feeling, if I can interject a political note, is that I don't think it is right that basic health care is a privilege. It shouldn't be. It should be a right of all human beings. And certainly in the richest country in the world.
What you see with your eyes is not necessarily real.
Boredom rests upon the nothingness that winds its way through existence; its giddiness, like that which comes from gazing down into an infinite abyss, is infinite.
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