"I do think that some of us began to realize that this was going to be a long struggle that was going to go on for decades, and you'd have to knuckle down. A lot of people in our generation did that. They didn't drop out and run away"

Julian Bond's quote talks to the decision and durability of individuals of his generation. He acknowledges that they understood that the battle for civil rights was going to be a long and challenging one, however instead of giving up, they chose to remain and combat. He suggests that they had the nerve to remain and face the difficulties head-on, which they were willing to put in the hard work and devotion that was required to make progress. This quote is a testament to the strength and perseverance of the people of his generation, and works as a motivation to those who come after them. It is a suggestion that even in the face of hardship, it is possible to persevere and make a difference.