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 During my life, I have had a few nightmares which happened to me while I was wide awake. One of them was the National Republican Convention in San Francisco, which produced the greatest disaster the Republican Party has ever known Nominee Barry Goldwater. â
This quote describes a political event as a waking nightmare, showing how deeply Robinson believed that nomination threatened the country and the party.
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
This quote means black Americans often had to protect themselves with skepticism while still remaining open to real opportunities. Survival required emotional balance.
â I'm not concerned with your liking or disliking me... All I ask is that you respect me as a human being. â
This quote means personal approval matters less than basic human respect. Dignity should not depend on being liked.