Equality Quote by Margot Lee Shetterly
““They wore their professional clothes like armor. They wielded their work like weapons, warding off the presumption of inferiority because they were Negro or female.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly, 2016
Professionals used attire and competence to combat stereotypes and assert equality in a biased workplace.
In simple terms: Clothes and work as shields against prejudice.
Key Takeaway
Leverage expertise and presentation to challenge bias.
Themes
identity
bias
empowerment
gender
race
Mood
determined
defiant
Type
social
inspirational
When to use this quote
- corporate meetings
- academic conferences
- job interviews
- team leadership
Key Concepts
intersectionality
social dynamics
self‑presentation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can institutions support equity beyond individual effort?
- What policies reduce reliance on personal armor?
A Different Perspective
May not address systemic barriers beyond personal presentation.
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