- First, they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out — because I was not a socialist.
- Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out — because I was not a trade unionist.
- Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out — because I was not a Jew.
- Then they came for me — and there was no one left to speak for me.
As you go to vote today, remember these words from German pastor Martin Niemöller, who initially was complicit with the Nazis before having an eventual revelation as to its evil.
You may not be a woman and care about a woman’s right to make her own health decisions. You may not be gay and think it matters whether you vote for someone who supports gay rights. You may not be a person of color and feel the need to consider civil rights as you vote. You may not be poor or a senior or feel like you need to vote for those who support Medicare and social services. But in the end, paying attention only to your own needs fails to recognize the greater community to which you belong.
Speak up now with your vote so democracy remains for everyone.
