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I did not learn the flaws of the criminal-justice system in law school or college or by reading about it. I grew up knowing the flaws and how it was disproportionately impacting the black community. It's not academic for me.
Kamala Harris
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Kamala Harris emphasizes her lived experience with the criminal-justice system's flaws rather than theoretical knowledge gained through education.

In this quote, Kamala Harris reflects on her deep understanding of the criminal-justice system, which is shaped not by academic study but by her personal experiences and observations of its impact on the black community. She underscores the importance of recognizing systemic injustices that many may learn about only in a classroom, while for others, these issues are apparent and lived realities that inform their perspectives and advocacy.

Themes

JusticeCriminal JusticeSystemic FlawsBlack CommunityExperience

In practice

Example use cases

During a speech about criminal justice reform.

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My mother was and will always remain my greatest hero.
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