and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Communist.
THEN THEY CAME for the Jews,
and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Jew.
THEN THEY CAME for the trade unionists,
and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a trade unionist.
THEN THEY CAME for the Catholics,
and I didn’t speak up because I was a Protestant.
THEN THEY CAME for me
and by that time no one was left to speak up."
Uttered in 1946 by German Pastor Martin Niemoller after his release from Dachau Concentration Camp by the Allies. After his release he became one of the leading voices of penance and reconciliation for the German people.
Initially he favored Hitler, supported his policy, and most importantly did not speak out against any ills he witnessed. As Nazism began to be favored over religion, Niemoller become aware of the consequences of his silence. He became the target of Hitler's policies, and he soon found himself in several concentration camps.
My name is Sean, and that is why I support gay marriage, and most importantly gay rights. Whether or not you believe that homosexuality is a birth trait or a developed trait, gays and lesbians are still humans. They are our neighbors, police, doctors, lawyers, and friends. Homosexuals deserve the same rights as heterosexuals, not because they are different, but because they are the same. We need to advocate for their rights before it is too late. We cannot sit here in complacency any longer. Just because you might not be gay, doesn't mean that at some point in the near future someone may be trying to take rights away from you. How would you feel if no one were to speak up for you?
I look forward to posting this month. I will post primarily on topics related to the finances associated with gay marriage (economic impact, taxes, and social security).
Talk with you all soon!
