Alienation is a form of living death. It is the acid of despair that dissolves society.

We had no alternative except that of preparing for direct action, whereby we would present our very bodies as a means of laying our case before the conscience of the local and national community.

[Malcolm X] had said a great deal about nonviolence, criticizing nonviolence, and saying that I approved of Negro men and women being bitten by dogs and the fire hoses, and I say, say go on and not defend yourself. I think this kind of response grew out of the build up, all of the talk about my being a sort of polished Uncle Tom.

Every person must stand up and be accountable, but be responsible for their actions.

Everyone has the power for greatness, not for fame but greatness, because greatness is determined by service.

Shallow understanding from people of good will is more frustrating than absolute misunderstanding from people of ill will.

If physical death is the price that I must pay to free my white brothers and sisters from a permanent death of the spirit, then nothing can be more redemptive.