Read paragraph 17 below: But you young people must do one thing, and I know you have heard this story a thousand times from

your mothers and fathers, like I did from my mama. I didn’t take her advice. But I accomplished the

same in another fashion. You must get an education. You must go to school, and you must learn to protect yourself. And you must learn to protect yourself with the pen, and not the gun. Then you can answer them, and I can tell you—and I don’t want to sound corny—but friends, the pen really is mightier than the sword…

What is the meaning of the phrase “the pen is mightier than the sword” as it is used in the text?

a: Education is the solution to racism.

b: Physical violence is not effective against racism.

c: Writing letters to government officials is the best way to combat racism.

D: Communication is more effective against racism than physical violence.