Curtis Sliwa Quotes

Powerful Curtis Sliwa for Daily Growth

About Curtis Sliwa

Curtis Sliwa, born on November 15, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York, is a renowned American activist, radio host, and author. Known primarily for founding the Guardian Angels, a volunteer citizen patrol organization that aims to deter crime, he has also made significant strides as an author. Sliwa was raised in a working-class family with Irish Catholic roots. His upbringing, particularly his experiences on the streets of New York City, served as a catalyst for his lifelong dedication to community service and crime prevention. At age 18, he moved to Manhattan, where he faced numerous hardships, including being mugged three times within two years. In 1979, Sliwa founded the Guardian Angels in response to the rampant crime in New York City during the 1970s. The group patrolled the streets, providing a visible presence and deterrent against crime. They quickly gained national attention for their efforts. Sliwa's activism extended beyond the Guardian Angels. In the late 1980s, he ventured into politics, running for Mayor of New York City in both 1997 and 2005. While he was unsuccessful in these campaigns, his political acumen and dedication to civic service remained evident. As an author, Sliwa has penned several books, including "The Real Crusader" (1987), which chronicled the early days of the Guardian Angels, and "For God and Country: Fighting Liberalism, Crime, Corruption, and Other Mortal Sins" (2005). His latest work, "Street Law" (2021), is a guide for young people on how to navigate law enforcement interactions. Today, Curtis Sliwa continues his activism as a radio host on WABC in New York City and remains an influential figure in the fight against crime and for community service. His legacy is one of resilience, dedication, and a commitment to improving the lives of those around him.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Never underestimate the power of a good idea and the importance of persistence."

This quote emphasizes that a powerful idea, when combined with unyielding perseverance, can lead to significant impact. It suggests that even if an idea may seem small or simple at first, when pursued relentlessly, it can bring about great change and importance in the world. The message is to never dismiss an idea based solely on its initial appearance, as determination can transform it into something meaningful and influential.


"If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything."

This quote highlights the importance of having a clear set of principles or beliefs to guide one's actions and decisions. It suggests that without a strong foundation, a person may be easily swayed by external influences, potentially leading them astray or compromising their integrity. Standing for something implies being committed to values and causes that are important, which in turn can provide a framework for making sound judgments and remaining steadfast in the face of adversity.


"The most important thing is to try and leave things better than how we found them."

Curtis Sliwa's quote encapsulates a core principle of responsible living and community development, emphasizing the importance of improving and elevating our surroundings rather than simply maintaining the status quo. This perspective encourages us to be proactive in identifying areas for improvement and taking actionable steps towards positive change, thereby leaving a lasting, beneficial impact on the world around us. It is a call to action for individuals to make a difference by bettering their communities, one small act at a time, ultimately creating a more sustainable and harmonious society.


"We have to stick together as New Yorkers in times of crisis."

This quote emphasizes unity and camaraderie during challenging times, particularly within the context of New York City. It suggests that in the face of crises – whether natural disasters, economic downturns, or social issues – it is essential for residents to band together, support each other, and collectively navigate through adversity. This sentiment underlines the importance of community, resilience, and solidarity in overcoming obstacles and strengthening the fabric of society.


"Remember, when you are on the side of justice, you do not need to be afraid."

This quote emphasizes the conviction that when one is on the righteous path (i.e., "on the side of justice"), they should not fear adversity or opposition. It suggests that individuals who stand up for what is fair and just can do so with courage, as they are guided by principles stronger than personal apprehension or fear. This quote serves as a reminder that standing up for justice, though it may bring challenges, ultimately leads to an honorable and meaningful life.


Block Watch, Crime Watch, we have hundreds of thousands of Americans, every day and night, risking their lives, going out for no pay as volunteers, protecting Americans like all of you and not asking anything in return. And the other day I'm speaking in a high school in New Jersey and the youngsters go, oh, you're just like Zimmerman.

- Curtis Sliwa

Every Day, Asking, Other, Risking

I'm a fast healer. I was on the air a week after I got shot.

- Curtis Sliwa

Fast, Week, Air, Healer

I've buried six Guardian Angels who have been shot and killed in the line of duty. I was stalked myself, had a gunman go pow, pow, pow, pow, pow, pow, five hollow point bullets, God save me. What do you think this is? This isn't Zimmerman. But unfortunately, he's become the face of Block Watch, Crime Watch.

- Curtis Sliwa

Line, Been, Buried, Block

Hey, I was lucky twice. I know it's three strikes and you're out. I don't think of myself as being invincible anymore.

- Curtis Sliwa

Think, Lucky, Invincible, Hey

A rotten apple in the Guardian Angels stigmatizes us all over the world.

- Curtis Sliwa

World, Apple, Over, Guardian

People under siege turn to us in complete frustration and I get a chance to go in when it's do or die.

- Curtis Sliwa

Chance, Frustration, Die, Siege

I have the ability to see results six months later and there's no better feeling. We impact on thousands of people in the world. And in New York, which is the roughest, when people appreciate what we're doing, it puts the Simoniz back on the apple.

- Curtis Sliwa

Doing, Thousands Of People, Puts

I don't think of myself as being invincible anymore.

- Curtis Sliwa

Myself, Think, Being, Invincible

I've been waiting 13 years for justice.

- Curtis Sliwa

Waiting, Years, Been, Justice

No one tells me what they think because they're either intimidated by me, or they don't want to upset me.

- Curtis Sliwa

Think, Either, Tells, Intimidated

I'm never in one place. I also have to be careful at public events.

- Curtis Sliwa

Never, Careful, Public, Be Careful

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