Political Quotes

W.E.B. Du Bois: And so, too, the native ambition and aspiration of men, even though they be black, backward, and ungraceful, must not…

On the recordJanuary 1, 1903
And so, too, the native ambition and aspiration of men, even though they be black, backward, and ungraceful, must not lightly be dealt with.
Said by
W.E.B. Du Bois

Editor's note · Context

Concluding his reflections on human potential, this passage insists that the aspirations of all people, including those marginalized, must be taken seriously.

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