Skip to content

Racism Quote by Arthur L. Johnson

“Whites don't know a goddamned thing about what's gone wrong here. They say 'Detroit had this, Detroit had that… But economic power is still in the hands of whites. It's apartheid. They rape the city, and then they come and say, 'Look what these niggers did to the city', as if they were guiltless.” quote by Arthur L. Johnson
Download Open image
““Whites don't know a goddamned thing about what's gone wrong here. They say 'Detroit had this, Detroit had that… But economic power is still in the hands of whites. It's apartheid. They rape the city, and then they come and say, 'Look what these niggers did to the city', as if they were guiltless.””

Arthur L. Johnson

About This Quote

Source Speech: Community Forum, Detroit, 2020

He argues that systemic racism keeps economic power with whites, blaming minorities for urban decline while ignoring structural inequities.

In simple terms: Systemic racism keeps power with whites, blaming minorities for city problems.

Key Takeaway

Recognize structural causes of inequality.

Themes

racism economic disparity blame urban decay

Mood

critical urgent

Type

political social commentary

When to use this quote

  • policy reform
  • community activism
  • education
  • housing
  • employment

Key Concepts

systemic oppression social justice

Questions to Reflect On

  • What policies could address economic inequity?
  • How can communities foster shared responsibility?
A Different Perspective

The statement may oversimplify complex socioeconomic factors.

3.4 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More Racism quotes

Browse all 10,058 Racism quotes