I would rather be alone and a loud voice for action than be silent.
Susan RiceRead
Well, I think by any expectation South Africa has come a tremendously long way. We've seen a society that many people thought couldn't withstand a peaceful transition to democracy without a great deal of violence, in fact, make that transition and do it in relative peace and security.
Interpretation
South Africa has successfully transitioned to democracy without significant violence, contrary to expectations.
This quote emphasizes the remarkable progress South Africa has made in establishing a peaceful democratic society, defying the skepticism of many who believed that such a transformation would lead to violence and unrest. Susan Rice highlights the significance of this achievement, illustrating that societal change can occur without the anticipated turmoil, showcasing hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
In practice
In a speech about social progress, one might reference this quote to illustrate the power of peaceful transformation.
I would rather be alone and a loud voice for action than be silent.
For the United States to recommit itself to the obligation that we undertook in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty that many other states undertook, which was to work towards disarmament and the eventual elimination of nuclear weapons, is something that manifestly serves our national security interests.
I was conscious of the fact that it could be to my disadvantage to marry a white guy - that some folks would hold that against me.
One can't erase the tremendous burden of apartheid in 10 years, 20 years, I believe, even 30 years.
Well, Nigeria has played a constructive role in peacekeeping in various parts of West Africa. But unless and until Nigeria itself is democratic and respects human rights, it too may well be a source of much greater instability as political repression limits the ability of the people of Nigeria to achieve their full potential.
If you want change, you have to make it. If we want progress we have to drive it.
We're heading towards a perception tipping point where it's going to soon become a foregone conclusion that not only has Newark turned a corner, but it's way down the right road.
That is how you know you've left childhood behind-when you wish for time to go backward.
I finally learned to accept that I can't make radio play blues any more than I could get Reagan out of the White House.
When the history of African development is written, it will be clear that a turning point involved the empowerment of women.
I am still committed to building a movement to end mass incarceration, but I will not do it with blinders on. If all we do is end mass incarceration, this movement will not have gone nearly far enough.
If we want to create change, we all have to be feminists - men, women, everyone needs to acknowledge that. Sometimes I have more in common with the man than I do the woman in the room.
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