Can't change Quote by Kathleen Hanna
“It's so important for people in political groups to learn the difference between productive criticism and not. When it's about something you can change, it's productive. But if it's just like "You are an evil person", you can't change that. There's no way around that.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: 2015 interview with The Guardian, 2015
Distinguishes criticism that targets changeable actions from attacks on immutable identity, urging focus on constructive feedback.
In simple terms: Focus on changeable actions, not personal attacks.
Key Takeaway
Aim for constructive criticism.
Themes
politics
communication
conflict resolution
Mood
thoughtful
critical
encouraging
Type
advice
reflective
When to use this quote
- activist discussions
- team meetings
- online debates
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
productive criticism
identity
changeability
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you shift a hostile comment into a constructive one?
- What strategies help keep criticism focused on behavior?
A Different Perspective
Personal attacks can entrench division and hinder dialogue.
![“I got hit up for a tampon commercial and so I asked [JD and Jo] if they had anything. Jo sent that over and I was like, "I love this track. Oh my god. It's so upbeat. It's so positive. It would be so great for a tampon commercial." That commercial never came through, so then I just had it. I was…” quote by Kathleen Hanna](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/768/kathleen-hanna-1726_clinton_i-got-hit-up-for-a-tampon-commercial-and_68158.jpg)
