Before a group can enter the open society, it must first close ranks.

If a white man wants to lynch me, that’s his problem. If he’s got the power to lynch me, that’s my problem. Racism is not a question of attitude; it’s a question of power.

Our grandfathers had to run, run, run. My generation's out of breath. We ain't running no more.

There is a higher law than the law of government. That's the law of conscience.

The secret of life is to have no fear; it's the only way to function.

Our noses are broad, our lips are thick, our hair is nappy-we are black and beautiful!

What a liberal really wants is to bring about change that will not in any way endanger his position.

An organization which claims to speak for the needs of a community must speak in the tone of that community.

Now, then, in order to understand white supremacy we must dismiss the fallacious notion that white people can give anybody their freedom.

Go home and tell your daughters they are beautiful.

One does not fight to influence change and then leave the change to someone else to bring about.

Short term goals are often based on dissatisfaction, and actions based on dissatisfaction will eventually lead to a life of unhappiness.

When one dream dies we replace it with another.

As flower blooms in spring, compassion grows in mindfulness.

I always had a repulsive sort of need to be something more than human.

And I realize now that that was . . . that’s the best way to love someone. Hold them close, know that you’re loved, let it wash over you

I don't think I've read any of the books that have been written about me.

We have white people problems in America. You know what that is? That's when your life is amazing, so you just make stuff up to get worried about.

Running through airports with pounds of luggage - that's a good workout.

Go into the street, and give one man a lecture on morality, and another a shilling, and see which will respect you most.

I'm always impressed by confidence, kindness and a sense of humour.