"I don't want to be on the right side of a wrong law."
This quote highlights the importance of justice over adherence to laws that may be unjust or immoral. Eleanor Holmes Norton, a renowned American lawyer and politician, suggests that it is essential to stand for what is morally correct even if that means going against a law which is perceived as wrong. It underscores the idea that upholding principles such as fairness, equality, and justice should always be prioritized above blind obedience to any law.
"We must never forget that the purpose of legislation is not special interests but the common good."
This quote emphasizes the primary objective of legislation should always be serving the collective welfare (common good) rather than catering to specific groups or interests (special interests). It's a reminder that policymaking should prioritize the needs and well-being of the broader society, not just those who have influence or power. This approach encourages fairness, equality, and justice in society as a whole.
"If you don't think your voice matters, try yelling into a pillow."
This quote highlights the importance of believing in one's own voice and thoughts. The act of shouting into a pillow symbolizes expressing ourselves even when it seems as if no one is listening or our words have no impact. It suggests that we should never underestimate the power and significance of our individual voices, as they carry weight and can create change when expressed confidently and persistently.
"When you're accustomed to privilege, equality feels like oppression."
This quote suggests that individuals who are used to having advantages (privilege) might perceive efforts towards fairness and equal opportunities as restrictive or burdensome (oppression). It underscores the importance of understanding and overcoming biases, as well as fostering empathy for those who face systemic inequalities.
"The more we have to fight for something, the more satisfying it is when we achieve it."
This quote suggests that the greater the effort or struggle required to attain something, the sweeter the sense of accomplishment upon achieving it. It emphasizes that overcoming obstacles and challenges not only builds resilience but also enhances the value and satisfaction derived from success. The idea is that the fight makes the victory more meaningful and rewarding.
Affirmative action is the most important antidiscrimination technique ever instituted in the United States. It is the one tool that has had a demonstrable effect on discrimination... Affirmative action, by all statistical measures, has been the central ingredient to the creation of the black middle class.
- Eleanor Holmes Norton
I agree that income disparity is the great issue of our time. It is even broader and more difficult than the civil rights issues of the 1960s. The '99 percent' is not just a slogan. The disparity in income has left the middle class with lowered, not rising, income, and the poor unable to reach the middle class.
- Eleanor Holmes Norton
My generation took on political equality. I believe young people, who have graduated into a poor economy, have an incentive to take on much tougher issues of income equality. If they show the leadership they have demonstrated in the last few elections, they can bring changes even greater than my generation achieved.
- Eleanor Holmes Norton
As commissioner, I will attempt to see that no man is judged by the irrational criteria of race, religion, or national origin. And I assure you, I use the word 'man' in the generic sense, for I mean to see that the principle of nondiscrimination becomes a reality for women as well.
- Eleanor Holmes Norton
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