If we have the courage and tenacity of our forebears, who stood firmly like a rock against the lash of slavery, we shall find a way to do for our day what they did for theirs.
Mary Mcleod BethuneRead
Whatever the white man has done, we have done, and often better.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the resilience and achievements of marginalized communities in the face of adversity.
Mary McLeod Bethune's quote speaks to the strength and capability of people who have historically been oppressed, emphasizing that they have not only matched but frequently surpassed the accomplishments of their oppressors. It serves as a powerful reminder of the untold successes and contributions of marginalized groups to society, urging recognition and respect for their achievements.
Themes
AchievementResilienceEmpowermentHistoryEquality
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on civil rights, one might use this quote to inspire the audience about resilience and capability.
More from Mary Mcleod Bethune
All quotes βYou white folks have long been eating the white meat of the chicken. We Negroes are now ready for some of the white meat instead of the dark meat.
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Enter to learn; depart to serve.
Mary Mcleod BethuneRead
We live in a world which respects power above all things. Power, intelligently directed, can lead to more freedom. Unwisely directed, it can be a dreadful, destructive force.
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Forgiving is not about forgetting, it's letting go of the hurt
Mary Mcleod BethuneRead
What does the Negro want? His answer is very simple. He wants only what all other Americans want. He wants opportunity to make real what the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution and the Bill of Rights say, what the Four Freedoms establish. While he knows these ideals are open to no man completely, he wants only his equal chance to obtain them.
Mary Mcleod BethuneRead
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