Meaning: The quote "Let there be no illusions about the difficulty of forming this kind of a national community. It's tough, difficult, not easy. But a spirit of harmony will survive in America only if each of us remembers that we share a common destiny" by Barbara Jordan, a lawyer and civil rights leader, encapsulates the challenges and aspirations of creating a cohesive and inclusive national community. Barbara Jordan, known for her powerful oratory and commitment to justice, spoke these words during her keynote address at the Democratic National Convention in 1976.

In this quote, Jordan acknowledges the daunting task of building a national community. She emphasizes the arduous nature of this endeavor, highlighting that it is not an easy feat. By acknowledging the difficulties, Jordan urges people to approach the task with a realistic understanding of the challenges ahead. This acknowledgment of the difficulty serves as a call to action, encouraging individuals to actively engage in the process of fostering a united and harmonious society.

Furthermore, Jordan emphasizes the importance of recognizing a common destiny shared by all Americans. By invoking the idea of a common destiny, she underscores the interconnectedness of people within the nation. This notion challenges individuals to move beyond their differences and to recognize the fundamental unity that binds them together. Jordan's words serve as a reminder that despite the diversity of experiences and backgrounds, Americans are linked by a shared fate and the collective future of the nation.

The quote also conveys a sense of hope and resilience. Despite the acknowledged difficulties, Jordan's words suggest that a spirit of harmony can prevail in America. The use of the word "survive" implies that this spirit of harmony may face challenges or threats, but it can endure and thrive if individuals are committed to upholding it. Jordan's message inspires a sense of optimism, emphasizing that the vision of a unified national community is attainable, but it requires concerted effort and a steadfast commitment from each individual.

Barbara Jordan's life and career exemplified her dedication to advancing equality and justice for all. As the first African American woman to be elected to the Texas Senate after Reconstruction and the first African American woman from the South to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives, Jordan's legacy continues to inspire generations of activists and leaders. Her words in this quote reflect her unwavering belief in the potential for unity and harmony within the American society.

In conclusion, Barbara Jordan's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and aspirations inherent in building a national community. It acknowledges the difficulty of the task while emphasizing the importance of recognizing a common destiny and nurturing a spirit of harmony. Jordan's words resonate as a call to action, urging individuals to work towards a united and inclusive society. Her message continues to hold relevance in contemporary discussions about social cohesion and the pursuit of a more equitable and harmonious nation.

Overall, Barbara Jordan's quote encapsulates the challenges and aspirations of creating a cohesive and inclusive national community. She acknowledges the difficulties, emphasizes the importance of recognizing a common destiny, and conveys a sense of hope and resilience. Jordan's words continue to inspire and guide efforts towards unity and harmony within American society.