" It was an ongoing struggle to say no, I don’t want to be a part of the perpetuation of this stereotype. "
- John Amos

The speaker expresses a sense of ongoing personal conflict regarding their identity and societal expectations. They convey an internal struggle against conforming to or reinforcing stereotypes that others impose on them, indicating a desire to maintain individuality despite external pressures.

On a deeper level, the quote highlights the broader issue of systemic stereotyping in society. It reflects the tension between personal values and collective perceptions, emphasizing how individuals often feel compelled to resist being typecast or pigeonholed by societal norms and expectations. This struggle underscores the importance of self-expression and the need for people to define their own identities beyond external labels imposed upon them.

The quote is attributed to John Amos, an American actor known for his role as Geoffrey Jefferies on the television series "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." Amos has spoken out about his experiences in the entertainment industry, particularly regarding the challenges faced by actors trying to break free from stereotypical roles and character types.