Slave Quote by Sue Monk Kidd
““How can you ask us to go back to our parlors?” I said, rising to my feet. “To turn our backs on ourselves and on our own sex? We don’t wish the movement to split, of course we don’t—it saddens me to think of it—but we can do little for the slave as long as we’re under the feet of men. Do what you have to do, censure us, withdraw your support, we’ll press on anyway. Now, sirs, kindly take your feet off our necks.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Secret Life of Bees, Sue Monk Kidd, 2002
The speaker rejects returning to oppressive domestic roles that suppress women’s autonomy, urging resistance against patriarchal control.
In simple terms: Women should not return to oppressive roles; resist patriarchy.
Key Takeaway
Reject oppression, demand equality.
Themes
feminism
resistance
autonomy
Mood
defiant
determined
hopeful
Type
political
inspirational
When to use this quote
- activism
- political protest
- personal empowerment
- community organizing
Key Concepts
gender oppression
power dynamics
solidarity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can collective action overcome systemic oppression?
- What personal sacrifices are needed for true equality?
A Different Perspective
Patriarchal structures may limit effectiveness of individual resistance.
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