Meaning: Barbara Jordan was an American lawyer, educator, and politician who was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement. She served as a U.S. Representative from 1973 to 1979 and was the first African-American woman to be elected to the Texas Senate after Reconstruction. Jordan was known for her powerful oratory skills and her unwavering commitment to equality and justice for all. The quote, "Let each person do his or her part. If one citizen is unwilling to participate, all of us are going to suffer. For the American idea, though it is shared by all of us, is realized in each one of us," reflects her belief in the collective responsibility of individuals in a democratic society.

In this quote, Barbara Jordan emphasizes the importance of individual participation in the functioning of a society. She stresses that each person has a role to play and that the collective well-being of the community depends on the active involvement of its members. By using the term "American idea," Jordan is referring to the fundamental principles of democracy, freedom, and equality that underpin the United States. She asserts that while these ideals are collectively held by all citizens, their realization is contingent on the active engagement of each individual.

Jordan's words are a call to action, urging people to recognize their personal responsibility in upholding and advancing the values of the American society. She implies that a failure to participate or contribute to the common good can have detrimental effects on the entire community. By employing the phrase "all of us are going to suffer," she conveys the interconnectedness of individuals within a society and highlights the ripple effects of apathy or disengagement.

Moreover, Jordan's quote underscores the notion that the strength of a democratic nation lies in the active participation and commitment of its citizens. She believed that for a society to thrive, each person must take ownership of their role in shaping the community and upholding its principles. By doing so, the American idea, with its emphasis on equality and justice, can be actualized in the actions and behaviors of every individual.

Barbara Jordan's words continue to resonate today, serving as a reminder of the enduring importance of civic engagement and the shared responsibility of citizens in a democratic society. Her message encourages people to recognize the impact of their individual actions on the greater community and to actively contribute to the betterment of society. By heeding her call to "do his or her part," individuals can play a meaningful role in upholding the values and principles that form the foundation of the American idea.

In conclusion, Barbara Jordan's quote encapsulates her belief in the interconnectedness of individuals within a society and the collective responsibility of citizens to actively participate in shaping their community. Her words serve as a poignant reminder of the vital role that each person plays in realizing the ideals of democracy and upholding the values of equality and justice. As a trailblazing figure in American politics and civil rights, Jordan's message continues to inspire individuals to take ownership of their role in creating a society that reflects the principles of the American idea.