We owe our children – the most vulnerable citizens in any society – a life free from violence and fear.
Nelson MandelaRead
During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote expresses Nelson Mandela's commitment to fighting for equality and democracy, regardless of the personal cost.
In this powerful statement, Nelson Mandela emphasizes his lifelong dedication to the struggle for equality among all people, confronting both racial domination and advocating for a harmonious society. He underscores the importance of striving for a democratic environment where everyone has equal opportunities, illustrating his willingness to sacrifice even his life to attain these ideals, reflecting his deep commitment to justice and human rights.
Themes
EqualityFreedomJusticeDemocracyStruggle
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech advocating for social justice, this quote can be used to inspire commitment to equality.
More from Nelson Mandela
All quotes →What freedom am I being offered while the organization of the people remains banned? Only free men can negotiate. A prisoner cannot enter into contracts.
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The past is a rich resource on which we can draw in order to make decisions for the future, but it does not dictate our choices. We should look back at the past and select what is good, and leave behind what is bad.
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We signal that good can be achieved amongst human beings who are prepared to trust, prepared to believe in the goodness of people.
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After one has been in prison, it is the small things that one appreciates: being able to take a walk whenever one wants, going into a shop and buying a newspaper, speaking or choosing to remain silent. The simple act of being able to control one's person.
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I dream of the realization of the unity of Africa, whereby its leaders combine in their efforts to solve the problems of this continent. I dream of our vast deserts, of our forests, of all our great wildernesses.
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