Shirley Chisholm Quotes To Inspire You

This post explores some of the most memorable and powerful Shirley Chisholm quotes that will inspire and empower you.

Shirley Anita Chisholm (1924–2005), an influential American politician, educator, and author, is celebrated as a pioneering figure in U.S. history. She became the first Black woman elected to Congress in 1968 and later made history as the first Black candidate for a major-party presidential nomination in 1972.

In her book, Unbought and Unbossed, she shared insights that continue to inspire change and resilience. Known for her fiery speeches and unwavering commitment to social justice, Chisholm’s words continue to inspire generations to stand for equality, challenge norms, and make their voices heard.

Top 10 Shirley Chisholm Quotes

1. “I am and always will be a catalyst for change.” — Shirley Chisholm

   
2. “The one thing you’ve got going: your one vote.” — Shirley Chisholm

   

3. “Service is the rent that you pay for room on this earth.” — Shirley Chisholm

   

4. “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” — Shirley Chisholm

   

5. “When morality comes up against profit, it is seldom that profit loses.” — Shirley Chisholm

   

6. “I’d like them to say that Shirley Chisholm had guts. That’s how I’d like to be remembered.” — Shirley Chisholm

   

7. “Of my two handicaps, being female put many more obstacles in my path than being black.” — Shirley Chisholm

   

8. “Tremendous amounts of talent are lost to our society just because that talent wears a skirt.” — Shirley Chisholm

   

9. “The emotional, sexual, and psychological stereotyping of females begins when the doctor says: It’s a girl.” — Shirley Chisholm
10. “At present, our country needs women’s idealism and determination, perhaps more in politics than anywhere else.” — Shirley Chisholm

Best Shirley Chisholm Quotes

1. “Be as bold as the first man or woman to eat an oyster.” — Shirley Chisholm
2. “We must reject not only the stereotypes that others have of us but also those that we have of ourselves.” — Shirley Chisholm
3. “Women have learned to flex their political muscles. You got to flex that muscle to get what you want.” — Shirley Chisholm
4. “I have certainly met much more discrimination in terms of being a woman than being black, in the field of politics.” — Shirley Chisholm
5. “Liberty and justice for all” were beautiful words, but the ugly fact was that liberty and justice were only for white males.” — Shirley Chisholm
6. “You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.” — Shirley Chisholm
7. “I ran because somebody had to do it first. In this country, everybody is supposed to be able to run for president, but that has never really been true.” — Shirley Chisholm
8. “Racism is so universal in this country, so widespread, and deep-seated, that it is invisible because it is so normal.” — Shirley Chisholm
9. “In the end anti-black, anti-female, and all forms of discrimination are equivalent to the same thing: anti-humanism.” — Shirley Chisholm
10. “The next time a woman of whatever color, or a dark-skinned person of whatever sex aspires to be president, the way should be a little smoother because I helped pave it.” — Shirley Chisholm

Famous Quotes From Shirley Chisholm 

1. “I don’t measure America by its achievement but by its potential.” — Shirley Chisholm
2. “I’m looking to no man walking this earth for approval of what I’m doing.” — Shirley Chisholm
3. “As there were no black Founding Fathers, there were no founding mothers – a great pity, on both counts.” — Shirley Chisholm
4. “I ran for the presidency, despite hopeless odds, to demonstrate the sheer will and refusal to accept the status quo.” — Shirley Chisholm
5. “I am the people’s politician. If the day should ever come when the people can’t save me, I’ll know I’m finished.” — Shirley Chisholm
6. “I have no intention of just sitting quietly and observing. I intend to focus attention on the nation’s problems.” — Shirley Chisholm
7. “There is little place in the political scheme of things for an independent, creative personality, for a fighter. Anyone who takes that role must pay a price.” — Shirley Chisholm
8. “That I am a national figure because I was the first person in 192 years to be at once a congressman, black, and a woman proves, I would think, that our society is not yet either just or free.” — Shirkry Chisheim

Shirley Chisholm’s Accomplishments

Shirley Chisholm made history as the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress in 1968, serving New York’s 12th district for seven terms. Known for her bold stance as “Unbought and Unbossed,” Chisholm was a champion of civil rights, gender equality, and educational reform.

In 1972, she broke further barriers as the first Black candidate and the first woman to seek the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination. Her pioneering efforts in politics and dedication to social justice continue to inspire leaders today.

Conclusion

Shirley Chisholm’s legacy extends far beyond her achievements. Her powerful words continue to motivate those who believe in justice, equity, and the strength of personal conviction.

Use these quotations as reminders to stay grounded in values, to serve others, and, like Chisholm, to never hesitate in the pursuit of a fairer world.