First they came

Outrage?  I'm not really seeing it.  Oh there is reason to be outraged.  Would you like a list? Tamir Rice, Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd are among a long list of people killed by police. Bree Black, Summer Taylor, Merci Mack, and Shakie Peters are on a long list of transgender murders. There has been a rise in anti-Asian assaults, harassment and hate crimes as COVID-19 Spreads.  There are frequent public anti-gay incidents including a very public hot-mic slur from a sportscaster.  The list sadly can go on and on.  I'm just not seeing much outrage though.  I actually heard someone yesterday say "It's all just a part of life."

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."

Sitting at home a mumbling something about life being unfair really doesn't accomplish anything.  Speak up when you see prejudice and bigotry.  Say something when you see injustice.  Our voice can make a difference.  Please don't put yourself in harm's way.  I'm not saying we should be reckless.  But there are many ways we can speak up, including letter writing and talking to family and friends.  Never be afraid to speak up for others. We are ALL people!