"A little less complaint and whining, and a little more dogged work and manly striving, would do us more credit than a thousand civil rights bills"

This quote by W. E. B. Du Bois is a call to action for those who are defending civil rights. He is recommending that rather of complaining and whimpering about the absence of civil rights, individuals must concentrate on striving and striving for them. He believes that this will be more reliable than relying on civil rights expenses to bring about modification. He is stressing the importance of acting and not simply relying on the government to make changes. He is motivating people to take matters into their own hands and work hard to make a difference. He believes that this will be more effective than depending on the federal government to make modifications. This quote is a reminder that we all have the power to make a difference and that we need to not be afraid to take action.