A workplace culture where fathers are encouraged to take paternity leave would result in stronger families, a more equal labour market and a better economy.
David LammyRead
Like many black men growing up in London, I have been stopped and searched by several policemen. I was 12 years old when I was first groped and frisked by police for walking down the road. It terrified me so much I wet myself.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote exemplifies the fear and trauma experienced by individuals of certain demographics during encounters with law enforcement.
David Lammy's quote sheds light on the lived experiences of many black men, particularly in urban settings like London, who face unjust scrutiny and violations of their personal safety and dignity by police. The visceral description of fear and humiliation highlights the broader systemic issues of racism and the profound impact of such encounters on a young person's psyche.
Themes
RacismPoliceTraumaFearExperienceJustice
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about police reform, I shared this quote to highlight the personal impact of systemic racism.
More from David Lammy
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The idea of a family sitting round the kitchen table and carefully planning their future family size based on the certainty of years to come is a complete fantasy. Back in the real world, jobs are lost, livelihoods taken away, families break apart, partners leave or pass away.
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Many black youths are defying stereotypes, achieving good academic results, finding employment and contributing to their communities. But helping those who fall behind is not an exercise in political correctness, it is a precisely what a compassionate - and sensible - state should concern itself with.
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Dads are not a risk to be managed, but a resource to be used for the benefit of the whole family.
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