Power in the hands of the reformer is no less potentially corrupting than in the hands of the oppressor.

A rule without exceptions is an instrument capable of doing mischief to the innocent and bringing grief - as well as injustice - to those who should gain exemptions from the rule's functioning.

Black people are the magical faces at the bottom of society's well. Even the poorest whites, those who must live their lives only a few levels above, gain their self-esteem by gazing down on us. Surely, they must know that their deliverance depends on letting down their ropes. Only by working together is escape possible. Over time, many reach out, but most simply watch, mesmerized into maintaining their unspoken commitment to keeping us where we are, at whatever cost to them or to us (Bell).

My wife says I spend my life trying to teach white folks. I'm not so sure I'm proud of it, but she's right.

Power in the hands of the reformer is no less potentially corrupting than in the hands of the oppressor.

All ethical people strive to choose "right" over "easy" when confronted by situations that force them to choose one or the other.

Slavery is, as an example of what white America has done, a constant reminder of what white America might do.