Blacks have had to learn to protect
â
Blacks have had to learn to protect themselves
by being cynical but not cynical enough to slam
the door on potential opportunities.
We go through life walking a tightrope
to prevent too much disillusionment.
â
Meaning
This quote means black Americans often had to protect themselves with skepticism while still remaining open to real opportunities. Survival required emotional balance.
About Author
Jackie Robinson
Jackie Robinson was an American baseball player and civil rights activist, famously breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball. His quotes often reflect courage, determination, and equality. Robinson inspires athletes, activists, and leaders to challenge injustice, persevere against adversity, and make a lasting impact in sports and society.
Related Quotes
â I have always been grateful to Colonel Longley. He proved to me that when people in authority take a stand, good can come out of it. â
This quote means leadership from people in authority can make justice possible. When those with power act rightly, conditions can improve.
â My protest about the post exchange seating bore some results. More seats were allocated for blacks, but there were still separate sections for blacks and for whites. At least I had made my men realize that something could be accomplished by speaking out, and I hoped they would be less resigned to unjust conditions. â
This quote means speaking out against injustice may not remove it completely, but it can still produce real change and encourage others not to accept unfairness silently.
â The old Dodgers were something special, but of my teammates overall, there was nobody like Pee Wee Reese for me. â
This quote means Pee Wee Reese stood out as an exceptional teammate whose character and support were especially meaningful. It is a tribute to loyalty.