It dawned on me then that you either had to survive apartheid, or you had to perish with it. And I decided to survive.
Interpretation
The quote reflects the harsh reality of surviving oppression and the determination to endure despite challenges.
Winnie Madikizela-Mandela's quote highlights the critical choice one faces in the face of systemic injustice, specifically apartheid. It underscores the importance of resilience and the will to persevere against overwhelming odds, emphasizing that survival is not just a biological necessity but also a moral and existential decision to oppose oppression.
In practice
This quote can inspire those in marginalized communities to stand up against injustice.
In the normal course of things, journalists want their story, and as soon as they are through with it, they pack their cameras and go. That was never the impression that David Astor gave when you were interviewed by him. It was far deeper than that.
One of the greatest things I fear is letting down my people. I wouldn't live with that type of conscience, of having let down my people after they've been brutalized for so long.
I wanted to be a doctor at some point, and I was always bringing home strays from school: people who were too poor to pay fees or have food. My parents never rebuked me or told me that they were hard-pressed, too.
We shall liberate our country.
I learned to deal with the police... to be tough... to survive.
I am not sorry. I will never be sorry. I would do everything I did again if I had to. Everything.
After I transitioned, a lot of people said, 'I like you so much more now,' because before, I was unhappy. Making that change was a big part of becoming me. Whoever you are, as a gay man or a lesbian or a trans woman, embrace it. Turn it into an asset.
A sheltered life can be a daring life as well. For all serious daring starts from within.
When I first became a lawyer, only 2% of the bar was women. People would always think I was a secretary. In those days, professional women in the business world wore hats. So I started wearing hats.
The gallantry and aggressive fighting spirit of the Russian soldiers command the American army's admiration.
Although the power is lacking, the will is commendable.
You might not be a big fan of politics, but you can still participate. All you need to do is vote for people you believe will work on these issues, and if they don't work the way they should, then it is your responsibility to call them, organize a town hall, and demand that they show up - hold them accountable.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.