Look at the Civil Rights Movement. Look at any kind of fight for change. People had to keep fighting and taking their rights. Rights are never given to you. They have to be fought for and they have to be taken.
Interpretation
Change requires persistent effort and cannot be handed over voluntarily.
This quote emphasizes that rights and freedoms are not simply granted by those in power; rather, individuals and communities must actively struggle and advocate for their rights. It draws on the historical context of the Civil Rights Movement, illustrating that significant societal changes often come through persistent action and unwavering determination.
In practice
During a speech about social justice, a speaker might highlight this quote to emphasize the need for activism.
As the world is getting smaller, it becomes more and more important that we learn each other's dance moves, that we meet each other, we get to know each other, we are able to figure out a way to cross borders, to understand each other, to understand people's hopes and dreams, what makes them laugh and cry.
If you can laugh with somebody and relate to somebody, it becomes harder to dehumanize them. I think that most of what we are constantly bombarded with in terms of media leads you to a creation of 'the Other' and a dehumanization of 'the Other,' and it's very much an us-versus-them conversation.
The challenge of the unknown future is so much more exciting than the stories of the accomplished past.
It happens over and over again—a group of people come together, fired up with passion to create change. They begin with huge inspiration and enthusiasm—and a year later, it’s all foundered in the mire of conflict. We could have changed the world ten times over—if we didn’t have to do it together with other people, those irritating, self-righteous, controlling, fluff-brained, clueless idiots who are our friends and allies.
Every good movement passes through five stages, indifference, ridicule, abuse, repression, and respect.
Those interested in perpetuating present conditions are always in tears about the marvelous past that is about to disappear, without having so much as a smile for the young future.
Movement has the capacity to take us to the home _x000D_ of the soul, the world within for which we have _x000D_ no name. Movement reaches our deepest nature, _x000D_ and dance creatively expresses it. Through dance, _x000D_ we gain new insights into the mystery of our lives. _x000D_ When brought forth from the inside and forged by _x000D_ the desire to create personal change, dance has the _x000D_ profound power to heal the body, psyche and soul.
Still round the corner there may wait, A new road or a secret gate.
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