American history Quote by Harriet Ann Jacobs
““I once two beautiful children playing together. One was a fair white child; the other was her slave, and also her sister. When I saw them embracing each other, and heard their joyous laughter, I turned sadly away from the lovely sight. I foresaw the inevitable blight that would follow on the little slave's heart. I knew how soon her laughter would be changed to sighs. The fair child grew up to be a still fairer woman. From childhood to womanhood her pathway was blooming with flowers, and overarched by a sunny sky. Scarcely one day of her life had been clouded when the sun rose on her happy bridal morning. How had those years dealt with her slave sister, the little playmate of her childhood? She, also, was very beautiful; but the flowers and sunshine of love were not for her. She drank the cup of sin, and shame, and misery, whereof her persecuted race are compelled to drink. In view of these things, why are ye silent, ye free men and women of the north? Why do your tongues falter in maintenance of the right? Would that I had more ability! But my heart is so full, and my pen is so weak! There are noble men and women who plead for us, striving to help those who cannot help themselves. God bless them! God give them strength and courage to go on! God bless those, every where, who are laboring to advance the cause of humanity!””
About This Quote
Source Autobiography: Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Harriet Ann Jacobs, 1861
The narrator reflects on the stark contrast between a privileged white child and her enslaved sister, foreseeing the sister's suffering and urging those in the North to act against oppression.
In simple terms: A white child and her enslaved sister have different futures; the narrator urges action against slavery.
Key Takeaway
Speak out and support anti‑slavery efforts.
Themes
slavery
racial injustice
compassion
activism
Mood
determined
hopeful
urgent
Type
political
inspirational
call to action
When to use this quote
- education campaigns
- political advocacy
- supporting survivors
- community organizing
Key Concepts
human rights
systemic oppression
moral responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can individuals in privileged positions effectively confront systemic racism?
- What actions can be taken today to support those still suffering oppression?
A Different Perspective
The narrator’s emotional plea may not translate into concrete policy change without broader societal will.
![“Adam Clayton Powell's entire political career has to be looked at in the entire context of the American history and the history of, and the position of the Afro- American or negro in American history. [He] has done a remarkable job in fighting for rights of black people in this country. On the…” quote by Malcolm X](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/caa/malcolm-x-213_adam_adam-clayton-powell-s-entire-political-c_6932.jpg)
