Most blacks will argue that they excel because of hard work, because of intellect, determination, sweat, blood, tears and risk.
Jesse JacksonRead
His foreparents came to America in immigrant ships. My foreparents came to America in slave ships. But whatever the original ships, we are both in the same boat tonight.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Despite different backgrounds, we share a common humanity and experience.
This quote emphasizes the idea that regardless of our different histories—immigrant or enslaved—what truly matters is our present unity. It suggests that despite the struggles encountered by our ancestors, we should find common ground and work together towards a better future.
Themes
UnityDiversityHistoryCommunityHumanity
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about social justice, a leader might use this quote to highlight the importance of solidarity among people.
More from Jesse Jackson
All quotes →Hold your head high, stick your chest out. You can make it. It gets dark sometimes, but morning comes. Keep hope alive.
Jesse JacksonRead
Leaders must be tough enough to fight, tender enough to cry, human enough to make mistakes, humble enough to admit them, strong enough to absorb the pain, and resilient enough to bounce back and keep on moving.
Jesse JacksonRead
Look at the coded language the Right is using against President Barack Obama. Openly calling him a liar in Congress, saying he is 'not a Christian, he was not born here, he is not one of us.' That makes addressing such issues trickier for the first African-American in the White House.
Jesse JacksonRead
Many are observing Ferguson and witnessing the anger, demonstrations, looting and vandalism and calling for quiet. But quiet isn't enough. The absence of noise isn't the presence of justice - and we must demand justice in Ferguson and the other 'Fergusons' around America.
Jesse JacksonRead
I am - Somebody. I may be poor, but I am - Somebody! I may be on welfare, but I am - Somebody! I may be uneducated, but I am - Somebody! I must be, I'm God's child. I must be respected and protected. I am black and I am beautiful! I am - Somebody! Soul Power!
Jesse JacksonRead
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