...there's something about telling other people what to…
““...there's something about telling other people what to ignore that just doesn't work for me. Especially things we shouldn't be ignoring. Kid bullying you at school? Ignore him. Girl passing rumors? Ignore her. Eighth-grade teacher pinch your friend's ass? Ignore it. Sexist geometry teacher says girls shouldn't go to college because they will only ever pop out babies and get fat? Ignore him. Hear that a girl in your class is being abused by her stepfather and had to go to the clinic? Hear she's bringing her mother's pills to school and selling them to pay for it? Ignore. Ignore. Ignore. Mind your own business. Don't make waves. Fly under the radar. It's just one of those things, Vera. I'm sorry, but I don't get it. If we're supposed to ignore everything that's wrong with our lives, then I can't see how we'll ever make things right.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Ignoring serious problems, especially abuse and injustice, prevents change and perpetuates harm.
In simple terms: Ignoring injustice harms everyone.
Key Takeaway
Speak up against wrongdoing.
Themes
justice
ethics
social responsibility
Mood
urgent
reflective
Type
ethical
motivational
When to use this quote
- workplace
- school
- family
- community activism
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
moral courage
activism
psychology of denial
Questions to Reflect On
- What steps can you take to safely address harmful behavior?
- When is it appropriate to intervene versus seek help?
A Different Perspective
Silencing can be a survival strategy for some; confronting may be risky.