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
People are tried and convicted in the newspapers and on television before they ever see a courtroom.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Media can influence public perception and prejudice legal processes.
This quote by Assata Shakur highlights the impact of media coverage on the legal system, suggesting that individuals often face judgment and condemnation through news reports and television before they are given a fair trial in a courtroom. It raises concerns about the presumption of innocence and the potential biases that arise when the media presents cases to the public, potentially affecting the outcomes of legal proceedings and the lives of the accused.
Themes
MediaJusticeCourtroomPrejudiceTrial
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about media ethics, one might say, 'As Assata Shakur noted, people are judged by the media before they even reach the courtroom.'
More from Assata Shakur
All quotes βPart 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.
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
Assata ShakurRead
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.
Assata ShakurRead
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.
Assata ShakurRead
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