Skip to content

Freedom Quote by Howard Zinn

“The Albany police chief, after one of the mass arrests, was taking the names of prisoners lined up before his desk. He looked up and saw a Negro boy about nine years old. “What’s your name?” The boy looked straight at him and said: “Freedom, Freedom.” quote by Howard Zinn
Download Open image
““The Albany police chief, after one of the mass arrests, was taking the names of prisoners lined up before his desk. He looked up and saw a Negro boy about nine years old. “What’s your name?” The boy looked straight at him and said: “Freedom, Freedom.””

Howard Zinn

About This Quote

Source Speech: Civil Rights Rally, 1965

A child's name "Freedom" highlights the deep yearning for liberty amidst oppression.

In simple terms: A child named Freedom shows desire for liberty.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and support the fight for freedom.

Themes

freedom justice race innocence oppression

Mood

inspirational somber

Type

historical motivational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • activism
  • policy reform
  • community organizing
  • youth empowerment

Key Concepts

civil rights racial equality human dignity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we honor such yearning today?
  • What steps can we take to ensure freedom for all?
A Different Perspective

One name may not capture systemic issues; broader action needed.

2.1 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Howard Zinn

Explore all 461 Howard Zinn quotes

More Freedom quotes

Browse all 30,110 Freedom quotes