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We realize the importance of our voices only when we are silenced
Malala Yousafzai
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the value of expressing oneself, particularly in the face of oppression.

Malala Yousafzai highlights the significance of having a voice and the awareness of its power often comes when we are denied the opportunity to express ourselves. It draws attention to the struggles faced by those who are silenced, underscoring the necessity of standing up for one's beliefs and the importance of speaking out against injustice.

Themes

VoiceSilenceOppressionImportanceExpression

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a speech about human rights at a rally.

More from Malala Yousafzai

I believe it's a woman's right to decide what she wants to wear and if a woman can go to the beach and wear nothing, then why can't she also wear everything?
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My father was convinced the Taliban would hunt him down and kill him, but he again refused security from the police. 'If you go around with a lot of security the Taliban will use Kalashnikovs or suicide bombers and more people will be killed,' he said. 'At least I'll be killed alone.'
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We human beings don't realize how great God is. He has given us an extraordinary brain and a sensitive loving heart. He has blessed us with two lips to talk and express our feelings, two eyes which see a world of colors and beauty, two feet which walk on the road of life, two hands to work for us, a nose which smells the beauty of fragrance, and two ears to hear the words of love.
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I was a girl in a land where rifles are fired in celebration of a son, while daughters are hidden away behind a curtain, their role in life simply to prepare food and give birth to children.
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I reassured my mother that it didn’t matter to me if my face was not symmetrical. Me, who had always cared about my appearance, how my hair looked! But when you see death, things change. “It doesn’t matter if I can’t smile or blink properly,” I told her. “I’m still me, Malala. The important thing is God has given me my life.
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My story is the story of thousands of children from around the world. I hope it inspires others to stand up for their rights.
Malala YousafzaiRead

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