Change Quote by Ralph Ellison
““It's you young folks what's going to make the changes, y'all's the ones. You got to lead and you got to fight and move us all on up a little higher. And I tell you something else, it's the ones from the South that's got to do it, them what knows the fire and ain't forgot how it burns. Up here too many forgits. They finds a place for themselves and forgits the ones on the bottom. Oh, heap of them talks about doing things, but they done really forgot. No, it's you young ones what has to remember and take the lead.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Community rally, 1970s
Youth must lead change, especially those with lived experience of struggle.
In simple terms: Young people should drive progress.
Key Takeaway
Empower the next generation.
Themes
leadership
generational change
social justice
Mood
determined
inspirational
Type
political
motivational
When to use this quote
- grassroots movements
- education reform
- political campaigns
Key Concepts
activism
community empowerment
Questions to Reflect On
- How can youth gain credibility?
- What role do elders play in supporting change?
A Different Perspective
Older generations may resist youth leadership, causing friction.
