African-american-authors Quote by Brandi L. Bates
““On Slavery: The saddest slap in the face is we have NO monument, no real statues or memorials, no special day of Atonement or Remembrance (NOT ONE), no thanks for 400+ years of free labor, forced servitude across the Trans-Atlantic, ass beatings, buying ourselves and families out of slavery, rape and plunder...but everyone else has monuments, special museums, and even movies. This is what America thinks of black people, so-called black president and all, who has been largely silent on this subject...we'll even celebrate Leprechauns, Easter Bunnies, and Secretary's Day before we acknowledge our history.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Social media post, 2023
The quote condemns the lack of public remembrance for slavery while other myths receive celebration, highlighting racial injustice and collective amnesia.
In simple terms: America ignores slavery’s legacy while honoring trivial symbols.
Key Takeaway
Demand honest memorials and education about slavery.
Themes
racial injustice
memory
historical reckoning
public monuments
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
political
activist
When to use this quote
- school curricula
- museum exhibitions
- public policy debates
- community dialogues
Key Concepts
systemic racism
collective amnesia
cultural hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies create meaningful remembrance?
- What role should leaders play in acknowledging history?
A Different Perspective
Changing monuments alone won’t heal trauma without systemic change.
