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Abolitionist Quote by Lucy Stone

“If, while I hear the wild shriek of the slave mother robbed of her little ones, I do not open my mouth, am I not guilty?” quote by Lucy Stone
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“If, while I hear the wild shriek of the slave mother robbed of her little ones, I do not open my mouth, am I not guilty?”

Lucy Stone

About This Quote

Source Speech: Abolitionist address, 1860

Silence in the face of a mother's suffering makes one complicit in her oppression.

In simple terms: Not speaking against injustice is guilt.

Key Takeaway

Speak up for the oppressed.

Themes

justice silence complicity human rights

Mood

determined reflective

Type

inspirational ethical

When to use this quote

  • advocacy
  • public speaking
  • education
  • community organizing

Key Concepts

moral responsibility activism empathy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What can you do when you feel powerless?
  • How does speaking out change outcomes?
A Different Perspective

Silence may be forced by fear, limiting impact.

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