Meaning: The quote by Julian Bond, an American social activist, reflects the challenges faced by individuals who lack the necessary skills and education to thrive in a rapidly changing and competitive global economy. Bond highlights the growing demand for skills and energy in the workforce, which has resulted in the marginalization of individuals who are unable to meet these demands. He also criticizes the education system for its failure to adequately prepare people for the evolving job market and the impact of globalization on employment opportunities.

The first part of the quote, "As skills and energy became more of a demand, people who didn't have skills just got left behind, got shuttled to the side," speaks to the increasing importance of specialized skills and adaptability in the modern workforce. As technological advancements and globalization continue to reshape industries, individuals without the necessary skills find themselves marginalized and unable to compete for employment opportunities. This phenomenon has led to a widening skills gap, where those who are unable to keep up with the changing demands of the job market are left behind.

The next part of the quote, "Education didn't keep up with their promise. Education didn't prepare them for this new world," points to the failure of the education system to adequately equip students and workers with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the contemporary economy. The traditional education system has often been criticized for its focus on outdated curricula and a lack of emphasis on practical, real-world skills. As a result, many individuals find themselves ill-prepared for the demands of the modern job market, leading to a disconnect between the skills they possess and the skills that are in demand.

The final part of the quote, "Jobs went overseas," acknowledges the impact of globalization on the availability of employment opportunities. As companies seek to cut costs and access new markets, many jobs have been outsourced to overseas locations where labor is more affordable. This has had a profound effect on the domestic job market, particularly for individuals in industries that have been heavily impacted by outsourcing.

Overall, Julian Bond's quote encapsulates the challenges faced by individuals who are unable to keep up with the evolving demands of the modern workforce. It sheds light on the need for a more responsive and inclusive education system that can better prepare individuals for the realities of the contemporary job market. Additionally, the quote underscores the broader implications of globalization on employment and the importance of addressing the skills gap to ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to participate and succeed in the new world economy.