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 →We 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
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