Corrected Quote by Malcolm X
“I Used the Word 'Negro' and I was Firmly Corrected”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 1964 “The Ballot or the Bullet” address, Malcolm X, 1964
He emphasizes the importance of using correct terminology and being open to correction when language is outdated or offensive.
In simple terms: Use respectful language and accept correction.
Key Takeaway
Respect language, accept correction.
Themes
respect
language
social awareness
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
educational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- education
- interpersonal interactions
Key Concepts
racial terminology
communication skills
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you respond when called out on language?
- What steps can you take to stay informed about respectful terms?
A Different Perspective
Changing language can be resisted by entrenched attitudes.
![“Most of [ the Negro leaders] who - who, whose existence or whose position of leadership depends upon the - on the subsidy or crumbs for - the crumbs from the white man's table, will only say what that white man wants to hear. When they get behind the door they talk a different language.” quote by Malcolm X](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/62c/malcolm-x-213_behinds_most-of-the-negro-leaders-who-who-whose_1417700.jpg)
![“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)
