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My friends, as we enter a new decade, it should be clear to all of us that there is an unfinished agenda, that we have miles to go before we reach the promised land. The men who rule this country today never learned the lessons of Dr. King, they never learned that non-violence is the only way to peace and justice. Our nation continues to wage war upon its neighbors, and upon itself.

Cesar Chavez#30

JusticeLeadershipNon violencePeaceHistoryViolenceNation

About this quote

What does it mean?
The agenda remains unfinished as leaders ignore lessons of non-violence, leading to war against neighbors and within the nation.
In plain terms
We still have work to do because leaders ignore non-violence.
What can you take from it?
Remember lessons of non-violence to achieve peace and justice.

Where it applies

  • political commentary
  • social reform
  • historical analysis

Putting it to work

  • advocate non-violence
  • critique leadership
  • promote peace

Questions to consider

  • Why do leaders ignore past lessons?
  • Is non-violence always practical?

Another view

Non-violence may not always prevent others from using force.

More from Cesar Chavez

  1. Dr. King was also radical in his beliefs about violence. He learned how to successfully fight hatred and violence with the unstoppable power of nonviolence. He…

    Permalink to quote #29
  2. My friends, the time for action is upon us. The enemies of justice wants you to think of Dr. King as only a civil rights leader, but he had a much broader agen…

    Permalink to quote #31
  3. Many people will tell you of his wonderful qualities and his many accomplishments, but what makes him special to me, the truth many people don't want you to re…

    Permalink to quote #28

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