Accepting Quote by Bayard Rustin
“Both morally and practically, segregation is to me a basic injustice. Since I believe it to be so, I must attempt to remove it. There are three ways in which one can deal with an injustice. (a) One can accept it without protest. (b) On can seek to avoid it. (c) One can resist the injustice non-violently. To accept it is to perpetuate it.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Civil Rights Activism, 1960s
Segregation is a fundamental injustice that must be confronted; passive acceptance sustains it, avoidance evades responsibility, and non‑violent resistance is the moral response.
In simple terms: Segregation is unjust; fight it non‑violently.
Key Takeaway
Choose non‑violent resistance.
Themes
justice
non‑violence
civil rights
morality
Mood
determined
hopeful
Type
activist
inspirational
When to use this quote
- community organizing
- education campaigns
- policy advocacy
- peaceful protest
Key Concepts
ethical duty
social change
activism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you support non‑violent actions?
- What risks do you face when confronting injustice?
A Different Perspective
Non‑violent resistance may be suppressed by violent opposition.
