Quotes to live by every day, as said by women

Alhi Leconte/Contributing Writer

When I hear the word woman, I associate it with the words power and strength because those words define the women that I interact with on a daily basis. I place high importance on the positive ways women are represented in the media. There are some quotes by women, in the past few years, that I feel society should always value.

“There are two powers in the world; one is the sword and the other is the pen. There is a third power stronger than both, that of women.” — Malala Yousafzai

The youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner, Malala Yousafzai, is a crusader of girl’s education. As a child, her life was threatened and almost taken because of her activism and outspokenness about the importance of schooling and education of girls in her country. A quote like this inspires feminism and inspires people to champion change for women.

“Remember, the Constitution doesn’t begin with, ‘I, the president.’ It begins with, ‘We, the people.'” — Gloria Steinem

Gloria Steinem, an activist and journalist, was an honorary co-chair for the Women’s March in Washington earlier this year. She addressed government officials, informing them that they would be held accountable for the decisions they make and the actions they take on issues pertaining to women’s rights, safety and health.

“We need you to roll up your sleeves. We need to get to work. Because remember this: When they go low, we go high.” — Michelle Obama

Former First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, said this in a historical speech at the 2016 Democratic National Convention. This is how she culminated her speech about her time in the White House and her thoughts on arguably the most memorable presidential election. The aim of Obama’s overall emotional message was to be strong and fight for what is right.

“My third grade teacher called my mother and said, ‘Ms. Cox, your son is going to end up in New Orleans in a dress if we don’t get him into therapy.’ And wouldn’t you know, just last week I spoke at Tulane University, and I wore a lovely green and black dress.” — Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox is an actress and LGBTQ rights advocate. As a transgender woman, she uses her star power to educate people about the issues that affect the trans community. This quote is all about confidence. It’s about courage and boldness. Monumental obstacles can be overcome with words of wisdom such as these.

“You have the power to change perception, to inspire and empower, and to show people how to embrace their complications, and see the flaws, and the true beauty and strength that’s inside all of us.” — Beyoncé

The year 2016 is not thought of fondly because of politics and numerous events that have negatively impacted culture and society. Thankfully, it was a great year in music. Beyoncé’s album, Lemonade, greatly contributed to this as it aided in furthering feminism and bringing to light society’s racial inequality. Young girls who read this quote should know that they are able to do big things, be leaders, and should believe in themselves.

 

DISCLAIMER:

The opinions presented within this page do not represent the views of Panther Press Editorial Board. These views are separate from editorials and reflect individual perspectives of contributing writers and/or members of the University community.

 

Image retrieved from Flickr.