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A word, for example, that is negative, pejorative, and has…

“A word, for example, that is negative, pejorative, and has caused more pain and suffering is 'illegitimate.' But every person has a mother and father. It is another way we let society hurt others.” quote by Alex Haley
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“A word, for example, that is negative, pejorative, and has caused more pain and suffering is 'illegitimate.' But every person has a mother and father. It is another way we let society hurt others.”

Alex Haley

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Critiquing the word “illegitimate” as a painful label, emphasizing that everyone shares parentage and that language can harm.

In simple terms: Word “illegitimate” causes pain.

Key Takeaway

Use language that unites, not divides.

Themes

language social harm equality

Mood

reflective serious

Type

social philosophical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • policy making
  • community dialogue

Key Concepts

terminology social justice family

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does language shape perception?
  • What alternatives promote inclusion?
A Different Perspective

Changing language alone may not fix deeper biases.

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