The hate directed against the colored people here in St. Louis has always given me a sad feeling because when I was a little girl I remember the horror of the East St. Louis race riot.

I have walked into the palaces of kings and queens and into the houses of presidents. And much more.

Surely the day will come when color means nothing more than the skin tone, when religion is seen uniquely as a way to speak one's soul, when birth places have the weight of a throw of the dice and all men are born free, when understanding breeds love and brotherhood.

We’ve got to show that blacks and whites are treated equally in the army. Otherwise, what’s the point of waging war on Hitler?

I was learning the importance of names – having them, making them – but at the same time I sensed the dangers. Recognition was followed by oblivion, a yawning maw whose victims disappeared without a trace.

I believe in prayer. It’s the best way we have to draw strength from heaven.

You are on the eve of a complete victory. You can’t go wrong. The world is behind you.

He was my cream, and I was his coffee – And when you poured us together, it was something.

I’m not intimidated by anyone. Everyone is made with two arms, two legs, a stomach and a head. Just think about that.

Surely the day will come when color means nothing more than the skin tone, when religion is seen uniquely as a way to speak one’s soul; when birth places have the weight of a throw of the dice and all men are born free, when understanding breeds love and brotherhood.