You know, if people are not pacifists, it's not their fault. It's because society puts them in that spot. You've got to change it. You don't just change a man - you've got to change his environment as you do it.

Being of service is not enough. You must become a servant of the people. When you do, you can demand their commitment in return.

We are convinced that non-violence is more powerful than violence. We are convinced that non-violence supports you if you have a just and moral cause...If you use violence, you have to sell part of yourself for that violence. Then you are no longer a master of your own struggle.

There is no substitute for hard work, 23 or 24 hours a day. And there is no substitute for patience and acceptance.

Non violence means people in action. People have to understand that with non-violence goes a hell of a lot of organization.

Non-violence exacts a very high price from one who practices it. But once you are able to meet that demand then you can do most things.

[We believe that unions have always been about much more than the industries in which they operate.] The fight is never about grapes or lettuce, ... It is always about people.