When I first heard about the Women’s march in D.C. in November, I thought it would be a fun mother-daughter event to participate in towards the end of her winter break from college. We’ve never participated in a protest before, and we thought it would be fun.
On march day, I reflected more deeply about why I was marching. Of the hundreds of signs I read that day, one stayed in my mind: First they came for Muslims…and we said ‘Not this time mo-f’ers’. I’m not a culturally rich, touchy-feely person — I teach Math! But I became curious and wanted to understand what this sign was referring to. When I got back home I found the original poem:
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.
This poem was written by or is attributed to Martin Niemöller, a member of the Nazi party who went along with things for a long while. After many years, he started to raise questions – and was then sent to a prison camp for 7 years as punishment. His simple words articulate how silence amidst immorality makes us complicit.
As a white, Christian woman, I might have little to fear. But the fact that fellow-Americans feel so threatened by our own government: Muslims, immigrants, blacks, members of the press, and more – gave purpose to my march. These large segments of our fellow Americans have good reason to fear. The president’s own words include threats to their security, freedom, family safety, livelihoods, and more.
Years from now, I don’t want to look back on this time and think, “I did not speak out”. I am grateful that this event helped me to find my voice and purpose.