I think if we go back and check our record, the Negro has proven beyond a doubt that we have been more than patient in seeking our rights as American citizens.
I don’t let my mouth say nothin’ my head can’t stand.
A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.
Life is not a spectator sport. If you’re going to spend your whole life in the grandstand just watching what goes on, in my opinion you’re wasting your life.
This ain’t fun. But you watch me, I’ll get it done.
I’m not concerned with your liking or disliking me. All I ask is that you respect me as a human being.
No matter how much or how little I knew technically, I was able to get the best out of people I worked with.
During my life, I have had a few nightmares which happened to me while I was wide awake.
I don’t like needing anyone for anything.
Plenty of times I wanted to haul off when somebody insulted me for the color of my skin, but I had to hold to myself. I knew I was kind of an experiment. The whole thing was bigger than me.
I’m grateful for all the breaks and honors and opportunities I’ve had, but I always believe I won’t have it made until the humblest black kid in the most remote backwoods of America has it made.
There’s not an American in this country free until every one of us is free.
The most luxurious possession, the richest treasure anybody has, is his personal dignity.
Above anything else, I hate to lose.
