When I see the leadership roles black women are taking today I am very encouraged.

I would like to be known as a person who is concerned about freedom and equality and justice and prosperity for all people.

If I stayed angry at other people, I would miss finding friends among those I was angry with.

I knew someone had to take the first step. So I made up my mind not to move.

I am leaving this legacy to all of you...to bring peace, justice, equality, love and a fulfillment of what our lives should be. Without vision, the people will perish, and without courage and inspiration, dreams will die - the dream of freedom and peace.

I do the very best I can to look upon life with optimism and hope and looking forward to a better day, but I don't think there is anything such as complete happiness. It pains me that there is still a lot of Klan activity and racism. I think when you say you're happy, you have everything that you need and everything that you want, and nothing more to wish for. I haven't reached that stage yet.

I was ready to die but give my consent never. Never, never.