At the beginning of the World Series of 1947, I experienced a completely new emotion when the National Anthem was played. This time, I thought, it is being played for me, as much as for anyone else.

It's not easy to be a martyr in the field of race relations.

I'm not goin' anywhere, I'm right here!

I don’t think it matters what I believe, only what I do.

A life isn't significant except for its impact on others' lives.

Are you looking for a Negro who won't fight back?

Life is not a spectator sport. If you're going to spend your whole life in the grandstand just watching what goes on, in my opinion you're wasting your life.