Who is Martin Niemöller? If you were educated in America over the past forty years, the chance is good that you do not know the man…but you have heard his words.
Martin Niemöller (1892–1984) was a prominent Protestant pastor who emerged as an outspoken public foe of Adolf Hitler and, as a result of his bravery, spent the last seven years of Nazi rule in concentration camps. Niemöller is most well-know for this quotation:
First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Socialist.
(A political group)
Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out— 
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.
(A class justice group)
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out— 
Because I was not a Jew.
(A religious group)
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.
And here is what I imagine Martin Niemöller might say today…
First they came for the Republicans, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Republican.
Then they came for our Publicly-Funded Colleges, and I did not speak out—
Because I could afford the tuition.
Then they came for the Muslims, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Muslim.
Then they came for my Privacy, and I did not speak out—

Because the NSA said I had nothing to worry about.

Then they came for my Radio, Print & Televised Media, and I did not speak out—

Because I was not a Talking Head.
Then they came for the Farmers of the World, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Farmer.
Then they came for the Whistleblowers, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Whistleblower.
Then they came for my undocumented house cleaner & landscaper, and I did not speak out—

Because I was born in this country.

Then they came for Black Fellow Americans, and I did not speak out—

Because I was not Black.
Then they came for the Democrats, and I did not speak out—
Because I was scared of Trump.
And so, who will speak—

 

When they come for me?