Being free Quote by Jupiter Hammon
“Besides all this, if you are idle, and take to bad courses, you will hurt those of your brethren who are slaves, and do all in your power to prevent their being free.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “An Address to the Negroes in the United States,” 1770
Idle or harmful actions harm not only oneself but also those dependent on you, especially the oppressed.
In simple terms: Bad choices hurt others, especially the enslaved.
Choose actions that uplift others.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- teaching youth
- advocating rights
- community organizing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities do you have toward vulnerable groups?
- How can idle time be turned into constructive service?
Change also requires systemic effort beyond individual behavior.