First they came

Once ruled by Great Britain, Hong Kong was handed over to China in 1997 with promises that have since eroded and that is the basis of what we have been writing about here for the past several days. This didn't just begin, but slowly, over the last several days, people are noticing. People outside of Hong Kong are speaking up. What a wonderful thing when everyone lends their voice. We ALL need to be concerned about justice and democracy, not only in Hong Kong, but everywhere.

 

I might be mistaken, but it didn't seem like that many people were taking notice of Hong Kong at first, but slowly more and more are getting involved and are speaking out.  This reminds me of "First they came,” that famous statement attributed to pastor Martin Niemöller about the many Germans who stood by and did nothing during the Nazi rise in power. The most well known version goes like this:

 

"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."

 

Speak up when you see prejudice and bigotry.  Speak up when you see injustice.  Your voice can make a difference.  Never be afraid to speak up for others. We are ALL people!