Speak Out!

I understand there are those who do not publicly discuss their politics. I realize there are Democrats, women, African-Americans and Jews who support the candidacy of Trump for the Presidency of the United States. I am quite aware of the stridency and fervor of his supporters. I realize that Hillary Clinton's candidacy does not inspire the same ardor as a fresh face or a more entertaining performer. But she is a decent human being of good intentions who is as qualified as anyone on earth to serve as President. Her opponent has vowed to use the power of the office of the Presidency for the express purpose of jailing a political opponent. There is simply no moral or intellectual equivalency between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. None. I decry the rising tide of Trumpism with all the bigotry, intolerance, prejudice, divisiveness, hatred and violence it embodies. Denounce complacency. Reject apathy.

If you treasure the ideals on which this nation was founded, Speak out. If you value the promise of living in a free and open society, Speak out. If you are committed to the belief that we, as a people, can fully realize those ideals and that promise, Speak out. Speak out against the malignancy within the soul of the mob. Speak out.  Or be branded forevermore as complicit.  

Martin Niemöller (1892–1984) was a prominent Protestant pastor who emerged as an outspoken public foe of Adolf Hitler and spent the last seven years of Nazi rule in concentration camps.

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 the Asians and I did not speak out

Because I was not Asian.

The they came for the Gays, and I did not speak out

Because I am not Gay.

Then they came for the Blacks, and I did not speak out

Because I am not Black.

Then they came for the Latinos, and I did not speak out

Then they came for the Muslims, and I did not speak out

Because I am not a Muslim.

Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.

-Martin Niemoller (1892 – 1984) (adapted)