Marian Anderson Quotes, born February 27, 1897, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and passed away April 8, 1993, was an American contralto and one of the most celebrated singers of the 20th century. A pioneering African-American artist, she broke racial barriers, notably with her historic 1939 Lincoln Memorial performance after being denied a venue by the Daughters of the American Revolution due to her race.
Anderson’s rich, vibrant voice captivated audiences globally, and her commitment to civil rights made her a symbol of resilience. These 15 quotes—sourced from her autobiography My Lord, What a Morning (1956), interviews, and public statements—reflect her wisdom on music, courage, faith, and the fight against prejudice.
15 Marian Anderson Quotes
- “When I sing, I don’t want them to see that my face is black. I don’t want them to see that my face is white. I want them to see my soul. And that is colorless.”
- “You lose a lot of time, hating people.”
- “Prayer begins where human capacity ends.”
- “As long as you keep a person down, some part of you has to be down there to hold him down, so it means you cannot soar as you otherwise might.”
- “When you stop having dreams and ideals—well, you might as well stop altogether.”
- “Prejudice is like a hair across your cheek. You can’t see it, you can’t find it with your fingers, but you keep brushing at it because the feel of it is irritating.”
- “None of us is responsible for the complexion of his skin. This fact of nature offers no clue to the character or quality of the person underneath.”
- “Fear is a disease that eats away at logic and makes man inhuman.”
- “I suppose I might insist on making issues of things. But that is not my nature, and I always bear in mind that my mission is to leave behind me the kind of impression that will make it easier for those who follow.”
- “The minute a person whose word means a great deal to others dare to take the open-hearted and courageous way, many others follow.”
- “A singing voice is a gift from God, and I think you have to share that gift with people.”
- “I have a great belief in the future of my people and my country.”
- “There are many persons ready to do what is right because in their hearts they know it is right. But they hesitate, waiting for the other fellow to make the first move—and he, in turn, waits for you.”
- “I could not run away from the situation. I had become, whether I liked it or not, a symbol, representing my people. I had to appear.”
- “A singer starts by having his instrument as a gift from God… When you have been given something in a moment of grace, it is sacrilegious to be greedy.”
Marian Anderson’s quotes resonate with courage, faith, and a timeless call for equality, reflecting her legacy as both an artist and a trailblazer. Which one inspires you most? Drop it in the comments and keep her soulful spirit alive!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
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