LG
Leymah Gbowee
46quotes
Leymah Gbowee: A Force for Peace and Women's Empowerment
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Leymah Roberta Gbowee is a Liberian peace activist, women's rights advocate, and Nobel laureate. She is commonly referred to as "Auntie Leymah" by her people.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on February 1, 1972
Nationality and Profession(s)
Liberian; Peace Activist, Women's Rights Advocate, Author
Early Life and Background
Leymah Gbowee was born in Monrovia, Liberia, during a tumultuous period in the country's history. Her father, a Methodist minister, instilled in her strong moral values and a commitment to social justice. Growing up in a society ravaged by civil war, Leymah witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of conflict on women and children. These experiences would later shape her activism and advocacy work.
Major Accomplishments
Leymah Gbowee's tireless efforts have contributed significantly to Liberia's transition from war-torn country to a more peaceful and democratic nation. Some of her most notable accomplishments include:
Leading the Women of Peace movement, which organized a series of protests and demonstrations that brought an end to the Second Liberian Civil War in 2003.
Negotiating with warring parties, including President Charles Taylor's government and rebel forces, to secure a ceasefire and establish a transitional government.
* Advocating for women's rights and representation in post-conflict Liberia, resulting in increased participation of women in politics and decision-making processes.
Notable Works or Actions
In addition to her activism, Leymah Gbowee has authored several books, including "Mighty Be Our Powers: The Story of the Liberation of Liberia," which chronicles her experiences as a peace activist. She has also received numerous awards for her work, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011.
Impact and Legacy
Leymah Gbowee's impact extends far beyond Liberia's borders. Her courageous advocacy for women's rights and social justice has inspired countless individuals around the world to take up similar causes. Through her tireless efforts, she has demonstrated that even in the most challenging environments, ordinary people can create extraordinary change.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Leymah Gbowee is widely quoted and remembered for her unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and human rights. Her inspiring story serves as a testament to the power of grassroots activism and the importance of empowering women in conflict-affected communities.
Quotes by Leymah Gbowee

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When the guilty verdict was handed down, I walked outside and saw a rainbow encircling the sun. Everyone in Monrovia could see it. It was a hot day, 80 or 90 degrees. I don’t remember seeing any raindrops fall. I thought, this is a sign.

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When you move so quickly from innocence to a world of fear, pain and loss, it’s as if the flesh of your heart and mind gets cut away, piece by piece, like slices taken off a ham. Finally, there is nothing left but bone.

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You can’t cure trauma when violence is ongoing, so the primary effort must be working for peace. You can’t negotiate a lasting peace without bringing women into the effort, but women can’t become peacemakers without releasing the pain that keeps them from feeling their own strength.

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I’m now on a journey to fulfill the wish, in my tiny capacity, of little African girls.

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The one thing I have never been afraid of is standing before important people and speaking my mind. I represent women who may never have the opportunity to go to the UN or meet with a president. I’m never afraid to speak truth to power.

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I always tell people, anger is like liquid. It’s fluid, it’s like water. You put it in a container and it takes the shape of that container. So many people you see in prison, unleashing war on their people, they are angry, and they take their anger and put it into a violent container.

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I don’t feel like I’ve done anything extraordinary but take my little light and shine it in darkness.

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I’m a serious optimist. I come from a country where you have little to be hopeful for, and so you have to always be an optimist.
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