"You have to be careful how you're using the word boycott."
Vernon Jordan
Lawyer
Vernon Jordan was a prominent civil rights leader and business executive known for his advocacy for racial equality and his influential role in American politics.
- Born
- August 15, 1935
- Quotes
- 12
- Rank
- #3575
About Vernon Jordan
Vernon Jordan — Life and Legacy
Vernon Jordan was a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement and later became a respected business leader. His work with organizations like the National Urban League and his close ties to political leaders underscore his commitment to racial equality and social justice. Jordan's quotes often reflect his belief in the power of leadership and the necessity of resilience in the face of adversity. For instance, he stated, 'You can't be a leader without a following,' which illustrates his understanding that effective leadership is rooted in the trust and support of others. He also emphasized the importance of civic engagement, asserting, 'It is not enough to be a good person; you must be a good citizen,' which highlights his view that moral integrity must be paired with active participation in society. Jordan's insights continue to resonate today, reminding us of the ongoing struggle for equality and the vital role of leadership in driving social change.
Quote collection
Vernon Jordan quotes
12 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"Every company, every boardroom in which I sit, has a plan, and they have objectives, goals, and a process. And to make it work, the pressure and incentive have to come from the top."
"You are where you are today because you stand on somebody's shoulders. And wherever you are heading, you cannot get there by yourself. If you stand on the shoulders of others, you have a reciprocal responsibility to live your life so that others may stand on your shoulders. It's the quid pro quo of life. We exist temporarily through what we take, but we live forever through what we give"
"Terrorism is not new to black people."
"The last job I applied for was to be a bus driver for the Chicago Transit Authority in 1957."
"I had a sense of what leadership meant and what it could do for you. So am I surprised that I am sitting up here on the 62nd floor of Rockefeller Plaza? No."
"A lot of companies make diversity a part of the performance goals against which an executive gets paid. Just as you have to make a certain sales number, you have to make a diversity number to get your bonus."
"My mother was the president of the PTA at every school I attended."
"What I know about this world is white people will take care of themselves. And what I have learned is that if you are where they are on an equal basis, they cannot take care of themselves without taking care of you."
"But there will come a time and a place to give back, and each individual will recognize that time and place."
"September 11 stands on its own as a terrible tragedy."
"You're in love, that's what your problem is."