The miracle is that some have stepped out of the rags of the Republic's definition to assume the great burden and glory of their humanity and their responsibility for one another. It is an extraordinary achievement to be trapped in the dungeon of color and to dare to shake down its walls and to step out of it leaving the jailkeeper in the rubble.
James A. BaldwinIt comes as a great shockโฆto discover that the flag to which you have pledged allegianceโฆhas not pledged allegiance to you. It comes as a great shock to see Gary Cooper killing off the Indians, and although you are rooting for Gary Cooper, that the Indians are you.
James A. BaldwinThere are few things under heaven more unnerving than the silent, accumulating contempt and hatred of a people.
James A. Baldwin