An OlderandBolder Founder's Response to Hate Politics

Let's hope enough people can hear the message

Contributor: Bill Moore

I’ve been thinking lately about the words of Martin Niemoller. He was a German pastor and theologian who, before he entered the ministry, had been a U-Boat commander in World War One. At first, he supported Hitler’s rise to power, but eventually came to oppose him and ended the Second World War in a concentration camp. Reflecting after the war, Neimoller said:

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.

I don’t think Donald Trump and his followers are as powerful as Hitler and the Nazis, but they sure seem as hate-filled, mean, and intent on spreading fear and prejudice against immigrants, Black people, other people of color, outspoken
women and advocates for workers’ rights and social justice.

I’m a retired, middle-class white guy, so I don’t think I’m on their enemies list, but I don’t want to have to admit about myself that I failed to speak out against their malicious views and policies. There are many ways to do it, but I think one of the most important is to vote against the politics of hate. I will do that and I’ll try to persuade as many other people as I can to do it too.

It’s time we speak out together.

                                                             —Bill Moore

*Restoring American Democracy