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Over the course of history, several prominent Black figures have made a difference in various fields.
There have been so many amazing Black authors, revolutionaries, and individuals who simply stepped up and decided to make a change in their own small way.
One thing I absolutely love about all of these people and their work is that we often get lines from them that were so inspiring, they continue to resonate with generations even today.
In this post, I want to share some of my personal favorite quotes from Black personalities that I believe are especially important, particularly now during Black History Month.
These quotes remind us of the strength of being Black in a world where you’re often oppressed by the system, and the importance of always standing up for what you believe in.
As a book lover, I, of course, included several authors, but they were also revolutionaries – people who fought for their rights until the day they left this world.
Despite the system failing them, their legacies endure.
So, if you’ve been thinking about one quote to keep in your heart for the rest of Black History Month, these are some fantastic options.
1. Maya Angelou
We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter their colour.
Maya Angelou is a huge name in literature, known for her poems, essays, and memoirs that reflect on her life experiences, including surviving trauma and fighting for civil rights.
Her powerful words helped inspire generations to believe in themselves and push for equality.
I’ve always connected with her writing, especially because of how she combines strength and vulnerability.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is a must-read if you want to get into her world.
2. Fannie Lou Hamer
I’m not asking for freedom. I’m asking for justice.
Fannie Lou Hamer was a fearless civil rights activist who fought for voting rights and equality.
Her quote is a reminder that freedom is only meaningful if it comes with justice for everyone.
This quote makes me think about how we sometimes focus on surface-level changes instead of diving deeper into the need for justice.
It really inspired me to keep pushing for real, lasting change.
If you want to learn more about her incredible life, Fannie Lou Hamer: A Biography is a powerful read.
3. Martin Luther King Jr.
The time is always right to do what is right.
Dr. King is one of the most famous figures in the fight for civil rights.
He preached nonviolence and worked tirelessly for equality, while using his voice to inspire change.
This quote is a call to act now, not later, when you see injustice.
This one really hits home for me because sometimes, it feels like the right moment never comes, but King’s words are a reminder that there’s never a wrong time to stand up for what’s right.
I try to remind myself of this when I’m deciding how I can help make a difference.
And if you’re looking for more from King, Strength to Love is a great collection of his sermons and speeches.
4. Rosa Parks
I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear.
Rosa Parks is famously known for refusing to give up her seat on a segregated bus, and this sparks the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
Her quote is about the power of commitment and how making a decision can help push through fear.
I think this speaks to me a lot when I have to make tough decisions.
I’m a big believer in the idea that once I commit to something, it’s easier to face the fear that comes with it.
Whether it’s taking on new projects or standing by my beliefs, it’s all about moving past the hesitation.
Rosa Parks: My Story is an amazing read to learn more about her courage.
5. Toni Morrison
I am my best work – a series of road maps, reports, recipes, doodles, and prayers, all with the same aim: to be as good as I can be.
Toni Morrison was a groundbreaking writer who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993.
Her books, like Beloved and The Bluest Eye, dive deep into Black identity, history, and what it means to live with both pain and beauty.
Her quote is all about embracing who you are and everything that’s shaped you, from your struggles to your triumphs.
I really connect with this because, as I grow and learn new things, I often reflect on the path I’ve taken.
I try to focus on getting better at what I do, even when life isn’t perfect.
It’s about finding meaning in every step.
If you haven’t read Beloved yet, it’s a powerful book that shows the depths of the human spirit.
6. James Baldwin
Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.
James Baldwin was a sharp, no-nonsense writer and activist who explored race, identity, and inequality in America.
His works like The Fire Next Time are still incredibly relevant today.
This quote reminded me that facing tough issues head-on is the first step toward change.
It pushed me to confront challenges in my own life, no matter how hard they seem.
Baldwin’s writing is raw and honest, and The Fire Next Time is a great book to dive into if you want to better understand race relations in America.
7. Barack Obama
The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something.
Barack Obama’s words have motivated millions, not just because he became the first Black president but because of the way he carried himself and worked toward positive change.
This quote speaks to action.
Sometimes when life feels overwhelming, just doing something – even a small thing – can make all the difference.
As I work on my own goals, this idea of moving forward is something I try to remind myself of.
If you’re curious about his journey, A Promised Land is an insightful look into his presidency and vision.
8. Assata Shakur
It is our duty to fight for our freedom. It is our duty to win. We must love each other and protect each other. We have nothing to lose but our chains.
Assata Shakur is a revolutionary and former member of the Black Panther Party whose life story is both powerful and complex.
This quote speaks to the urgency and importance of fighting for justice and equality.
It’s a powerful call to action and reminds me of the need to stand up for what’s right, even when it feels tough.
Her autobiography, Assata: An Autobiography, is a great way to understand her story and the struggle for Black liberation.
9. Audre Lorde
Your silence will not protect you.
Audre Lorde was a poet and activist who didn’t shy away from speaking truth about the intersection of race, gender, and sexuality.
This quote is a call for us to speak out, even when it’s uncomfortable.
As I reflect on my own experiences and the power of using my voice, I realize just how important it is to not stay silent in the face of injustice.
Lorde’s book Sister Outsider is full of her wisdom and is a great read for anyone who wants to understand her powerful thoughts on activism.
10. Shirley Chisholm
You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.
Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman elected to Congress and the first to run for president in a major political party.
This quote challenges us to take action, instead of just talking about the changes we want to see.
I always think about this when I feel like I’m stuck or not making enough progress.
Shirley’s words remind me that taking action, even small steps, is what truly makes a difference.
If you want to dive deeper into her life, Unbought and Unbossed is an inspiring read about her journey.
11. Zora Neale Hurston
There are years that ask questions and years that answer.
Zora Neale Hurston’s work, especially Their Eyes Were Watching God, remains an essential piece of Black literature.
She captured the complexity of life and love in ways that resonate deeply with me.
This quote speaks to the natural ebb and flow of life.
Some years are about searching, while others bring answers.
It’s a reminder that both moments are valuable.
If you haven’t read Their Eyes Were Watching God, it’s a timeless exploration of self-discovery and resilience.
12. Oprah Winfrey
You become what you believe.
Oprah Winfrey’s rise from a challenging childhood to becoming a global media mogul is nothing short of inspiring.
This quote is all about the power of mindset.
It’s a reminder that what we believe about ourselves shapes who we become.
For me, it’s about making sure I have faith in myself as I work on my goals.
Oprah’s book The Path Made Clear: Discovering Your Life’s Direction and Purpose is a great tool for anyone looking to reflect on their journey.
13. Ella Baker
Give light and people will find the way.
Ella Baker was a behind-the-scenes leader in the civil rights movement who believed in the power of grassroots organizing.
She helped empower others to take leadership and push for social change.
Her words remind me that even small acts of kindness and guidance can have a big impact.
As I continue to work on helping others through my platform, I think about how much impact small, positive actions can have.
If you’re looking to learn more about her life, Ella Baker and the Black Freedom Movement is a great book to check out.
14. Toni Morrison
If you want to fly, you have to give up the things that weigh you down.
Another gem from Toni Morrison.
This quote is about letting go of things that hold you back, whether they’re fears, bad habits, or negativity.
I really connect with this quote as I work on my personal growth.
It’s easy to hold onto things that weigh us down, but letting go is part of moving forward.
I’m constantly learning how to let go of things, mentally and physically, that no longer serve me.
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison is a must-read if you’re looking to explore the deeper emotional struggles people go through.
15. Martin Luther King Jr.
Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.
Yes, I couldn’t resist adding a second quote from MLK himself.
King’s words here are a reminder that injustice doesn’t just affect the people directly involved – it impacts everyone.
It’s a call for solidarity and collective action.
This quote always makes me reflect on how I can be more active in my own community.
When I see something wrong, it’s important to speak up and take action.
Letter from Birmingham Jail is where King dives deep into this idea, and it’s a must-read for anyone who wants to understand his philosophy on justice.
16. Audre Lorde
I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.
Audre Lorde was a poet and activist who fought for racial, gender, and sexual equality.
This quote reminds us that true freedom means fighting for everyone’s freedom, not just our own.
As I work on my own activism and awareness, I’m always thinking about how other people’s struggles are interconnected with my own.
Lorde’s words challenge me to be more empathetic and think beyond my immediate circle.
If you’re interested in reading more, Sister Citizen by Melissa V. Harris-Perry touches on similar themes of solidarity and empowerment.
Now that you’ve seen some of my favorite quotes that are amazing for Black History Month, let me know which ones you loved or if there’s one in particular that I missed.
Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
In the meantime, here’s my reading list for Black History Month, featuring books for both kids and adults.
