I've learned that my people are not the only ones oppressed... I have sung my songs all over the world and everywhere found that some common bond makes the people of all lands take to Negro songs as their own.
Paul RobesonRead
The other reason that I am here today, again from the State Department and from the court record of the court of appeals, is that when I am abroad I speak out against the injustices against the Negro people of this land.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Paul Robeson emphasizes the importance of standing up against injustices faced by the Negro community.
In this quote, Paul Robeson conveys his commitment to advocating for the rights and dignity of the Negro community, both domestically and internationally. He emphasizes his dedication to using his voice to address and combat injustices, highlighting the responsibility of individuals, especially those with a platform, to speak out against societal wrongs. This reflects a broader theme of courage and moral duty in the face of oppression.
Themes
InjusticeNegroCourageAdvocacyVoice
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote during a speech about civil rights can inspire listeners to take action.
More from Paul Robeson
All quotes βWe ask for nothing that is not ours by right, and herein lies the great moral power of our demand.
Paul RobesonRead
My mother was born in your state, Mr. Walter, and my mother was a Quaker, and my ancestors in the time of Washington baked bread for George Washington's troops when they crossed the Delaware, and my own father was a slave.
Paul RobesonRead
The intolerance of the few, or the risk of it, carries the day against the wider humanity of the many.
Paul RobesonRead
I shall take my voice wherever there are those who want to hear the melody of freedom
Paul RobesonRead
And at home in the United States we found continued and increased persecution, first of leaders of the Communist Party, and then of all honest anti-fascists.
Paul RobesonRead
Similar quotes
Do not be too timid and squeamish about your actions. All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better. What if they are a little coarse and you may get your coat soiled or torn? What if you do fail, and get fairly rolled in the dirt once or twice? Up again, you shall never be so afraid of a tumble.
Ralph Waldo EmersonRead
You are the Master of your Fate, the Captain of your Soul.
Henry FordRead
In war there is no second prize for the runner-up.
Omar N. BradleyRead
Courage and comfort, all shall yet go well
William ShakespeareRead
A nation which makes the final sacrifice for life and freedom does not get beaten.
Mustafa Kemal AtaturkRead
When fear rushed in, I learned how to hear my heart racing but refused to allow my feelings to sway me. That resilience came from my family. It flowed through our bloodline.
Coretta Scott KingRead