A man who stands for nothing will fall for anything.
We won't organize any black man to be a Democrat or a Republican because both of them have sold us out. Both of them have sold us out; both parties have sold us out. Both parties are racist, and the Democratic Party is more racist than the Republican Party.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Malcolm X emphasizes a disenfranchisement felt by black individuals towards both major political parties, highlighting their perceived betrayal.
In this quote, Malcolm X expresses frustration with the American political system, claiming that both the Democratic and Republican parties have failed to represent the interests of black Americans. He asserts that both parties are guilty of racism, but suggests that the Democratic Party is particularly hypocritical in its treatment of black citizens, having historically promised support while delivering betrayal. This underscores a call for black empowerment and self-organization outside of traditional party affiliations, advocating for a critical reevaluation of political loyalty.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is ideal for discussions on political representation at a community meeting.
More from Malcolm X
All quotes →I have more respect for a man who lets me know where he stands, even if he's wrong, than the one who comes up like an angel and is nothing but a devil.
When you want a nation, that's called nationalism... Black nationalism. A revolutionary is a Black nationalist. He wants a nation.
So over you is the greatest enemy a man can have — and that is fear. I know some of you are afraid to listen to the truth — you have been raised on fear and lies. But I am going to preach to you the truth until you are free of that fear...
Usually when people are sad, they don't do anything. They just cry over their condition. But when they get angry, they bring about a change.
Time is on the side of the oppressed today, it's against the oppressor. Truth is on the side of the oppressed today, it's against the oppressor. You don't need anything else.
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