Shirley Chisholm – Acceptance


“If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”
Shirley ChisholmBig Idea
Being excluded for unpopular opinions hurts. Being excluded because of race, gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation is devastating. Exclusion devalues our humanity. That can make us bitter, resentful and angry. At these unpleasant moments we face crucial moral decisions-- we can walk away and create space to preserve our dignity or we can stubbornly assert ourselves to gain acceptance and respect. Each decision carries consequences felt throughout our lives.
Claim
If you are being excluded, keep trying to be accepted.
Counterclaim
If you are being excluded, walk away.
Essential
Question
How hard should we try to be accepted by others?