I speak to you only as an American
â
I speak to you only as an American
who happens to be an American Negro
and one who is proud of that heritage.
We ask for nothing special.
We ask only that we be permitted to compete on an even basis,
and if we are not worthy,
then the competition shall, per se, eliminate us.
â
Meaning
This quote means black Americans were not asking for favors, only an equal chance to compete fairly and be judged on merit. Equality is not special treatment.
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 When I look back at what I had to go through in black baseball, I can only marvel at the many black players who stuck it out for years in the Jim Crow leagues because they had nowhere else to go. â
This quote honors the endurance of black players who remained in segregated baseball because they had no fair alternative. It recognizes resilience under injustice.
â The right of every American to first class citizenship is the most important issue of our time. â
This quote means full citizenship and equal treatment for every American is a central moral issue, not a side concern. Democracy is judged by inclusion.
â Many people resented my impatience and honesty, but I never cared about acceptance as much as I cared about respect. â
This quote means the speaker values respect more than popularity or comfort. Honesty may cost acceptance, but dignity matters more.