21.DEC.10
Editor: Martin Niemöller famous statement (1945): âIn Germany they came first for the Communists, and I didnât speak up because I wasnât a Communist. Then they came for the Jews, and I didnât speak because I wasnât a Jew.{{more}} Then they came for the trade unionists, and I didnât speak up because I wasnât a trade unionist. Then they came for me, and by that time no one was left to speak up.â
Now that the elections are over, we must be ever more vigilant to make sure that those who speak out for the rights of the âoppressedâ and the injustice done are always protected; this is the democratic way. But just in case we donât heed, here is a rendition of Niemöllerâs famous statement:
First they picked on a little old man about his land, and I didnât speak up because it was none of my business. Then they took the land from the little old man, and I didnât speak out because it wasnât my land. Then the little old man went to court to fight for his land back, and I didnât speak because I didnât care. Now they have come for my land, but thereâs no one whoâs willing to fight for me.
(You can make your own rendition.)
Remember, always today for me, tomorrow for you. Letâs keep fighting and be vigilant.
Dr. Harry
Our Readers' Opinions
December 21, 2010
Vincentians, be ever vigilant