Dennis Johnson > Quotes

“White supremacy is as much about mindless habits of white privilege as it is about active beliefs. It is about impact, not simply intent.”
― Dennis Johnson, What We Do Now: Standing Up for Your Values in Trump's America

“But know this: whether you actively engage in the violent culture of hate or merely step out of the way to give it permission to persist and room to grow, you are complicit. And white people, you give permission to this culture every day you do nothing more than have “conversations on race.” You don’t get to just have conversations anymore. You don’t get to just wear a safety pin and call yourself an ally. You don’t get to just talk while the rest of us fear for our lives because discrimination, rape culture, and xenophobia just won the White House. Too often oppressed people are told to exhibit an inordinate amount of grace and patience while white people are “on their journey.” And it’s true: No one is born woke. We all have work to do and we should respect where people are. But as Dr. King reminds us, too often “wait means never,” and your journey may cost someone their citizenship, their religious freedom, or their life.”
― Dennis Johnson, What We Do Now: Standing Up for Your Values in Trump's America

“The work of freedom is messy, dangerous, and intentionally uncomfortable. Here’s a simple test: if the action step you’re taking isn’t really costing you your comfort, chances are you’re not doing enough.”
― Dennis Johnson, What We Do Now: Standing Up for Your Values in Trump's America

“An Athenian lawmaker, Solon, is quoted as saying, “Wrongdoing can only be avoided if those who are not wronged feel the same indignation at it as those who are.” That”
― Dennis Johnson, What We Do Now: Standing Up for Your Values in Trump's America