In South Africa, I feel I am a stranger, at best an animal.
Oliver TamboRead
There is no way a spirit of resistance that has sunk so deep in the population can be repressed.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes that deep-seated resistance among people cannot be easily suppressed.
Oliver Tambo's quote reflects the idea that when a spirit of resistance is firmly rooted within the populace, it cannot be extinguished or ignored. It suggests that societal change is driven by the collective will and determination of individuals who oppose oppression, and regardless of external attempts to suppress such sentiments, the spirit of resistance will ultimately prevail.
In practice
During a speech at a rally for social justice, one might use this quote to inspire the crowd to continue fighting for their rights.
In South Africa, I feel I am a stranger, at best an animal.
The more pressure you bring from without, the less internal pressure is necessary.
The sanctions will not kill us. It's apartheid that's killing us.
How do you deal with a criminal that will not listen to what you have to say and who continues his policy of violence? Some say you continue to talk and let him tire himself out. But nearly 40 years after the institution of apartheid, is there anyone who still believes that verbal persuasion will work?
The U.S. is the last country that should see itself as an ally of the apartheid system.
It was of limited usefulness to head great rallies. The government did not listen, and, soon enough, the tear gas and the muzzles of the guns were turned against the people. The justice of our cries went unrecognized.
When I take a knee, I am facing the flag with my full body, staring straight into the heart of our country's ultimate symbol of freedom - because I believe it is my responsibility, just as it is yours, to ensure that freedom is afforded to everyone in this country.
Shouting down and intimidating someone from speaking their mind is not exactly a Vermont town meeting value, nor should it be an American town meeting value.
Fear will keep you alive in a war. Fear will keep you alive in business. There's nothing wrong with fear.
Whenever I get stuck on something, I'm like, 'What would I do if I wasn't afraid? What would I write if I wasn't afraid? What would I say in this situation if I wasn't afraid?'
Anyone can support a team that is winning - it takes no courage. But to stand behind a team to defend a team when it is down and really needs you, that takes a lot of courage.
To see what is right and not to do it is want of courage, or of principle.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.