When we say 'Black Lives Matter,' we're not saying that any other life doesn't matter. That has never, ever been our message. Our message has always been from a place of love.
Opal TometiRead
Anti-black racism operates at a society-wide level and colludes in a seamless web of policies, practices, and beliefs to oppress and disempower black communities.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the systemic nature of anti-black racism and its impact on black communities.
Opal Tometi's quote emphasizes that anti-black racism is not merely an individual prejudice but a deeply ingrained societal issue. It manifests through a complex interplay of policies, practices, and cultural beliefs that collectively contribute to the oppression and disempowerment of black communities, underscoring the need for collective awareness and action to dismantle these systems of inequality.
Themes
RacismOppressionSocietyBeliefsPolicies
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about social justice at a community meeting.
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The U.S.' refusal to acknowledge the plight of displaced Haitians and maintaining inhumane practices of neglect, disrespect, and violence amounts to a gross violation of human rights.
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I have two younger brothers, and I know my parents have spoken to them about driving and interacting with police. They didn't have those conversations with me, but they did have conversations about being exceptional black people.
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