If any man claims the Negro should be content ... let him say he would willingly change the color of his skin and go to live in the Negro section of a large city. Then and only then has he a right to such a claim.

Summary

This quote reflects the idea that understanding the experiences and realities of a marginalized group, such as African Americans, requires empathizing with their struggles. It challenges individuals who argue that African Americans should be content with their circumstances by asking them to imagine themselves in the same situation. The quote highlights the importance of perspective-taking and suggests that only those who have genuinely lived through racial discrimination and inequality can speak with authority on what it means to be content in the face of such challenges.