In his 1942 essay "Non-Violence vs. Jim Crow," civil rights organizer Bayard Rustin wrote:
"Nonviolent direct action is a method of struggle in which people refuse to cooperate with injustice. It is not a method of compliance or acceptance; it is a method of conflict."
Based on this quote, which of the following best describes the core nature of nonviolent direct action?
- AA strategy of passive compliance designed to minimize social tension
- A deliberate, confrontational strategy to challenge and disrupt discriminatory systemsAnswer
- CA method that avoids public confrontation in favor of private negotiation
- DAn approach centered on armed retaliation against racial violence
Answer
A deliberate, confrontational strategy to challenge and disrupt discriminatory systems
The correct option is correct because Bayard Rustin defines nonviolent direct action as a 'method of conflict' and 'struggle' involving the refusal to cooperate with injustice. This emphasizes that nonviolence is a confrontational, active strategy meant to challenge and disrupt discriminatory systems, rather than a passive or submissive act.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Nonviolent direct action is an active, confrontational method of political struggle, not passive submission or compliance.