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Awful Quote by David C. Driskell

“Even when I became cognizant of this societal problem in this country, I asked my father and my mother if they knew anything that had been passed on to them, about slavery, and my father was very reticent about it. He often said, "No, I don't know anything about it, and it was bad, it was awful…” quote by David C. Driskell
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“Even when I became cognizant of this societal problem in this country, I asked my father and my mother if they knew anything that had been passed on to them, about slavery, and my father was very reticent about it. He often said, "No, I don't know anything about it, and it was bad, it was awful and it's over and we want to get on with our lives."”

David C. Driskell

About This Quote

Source Interview: Discussing family silence on slavery history

The speaker’s parents were reluctant to discuss slavery, reflecting denial and desire to move on.

In simple terms: Family silence hides painful history.

Key Takeaway

Encourage open dialogue about past injustices.

Themes

history family dynamics racial injustice

Mood

somber hopeful

Type

reflective social

When to use this quote

  • education
  • community workshops
  • family therapy
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

sociology psychology memory studies

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do families avoid painful topics?
  • How can you foster honest conversations?
A Different Perspective

Denial can impede healing.

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