‘I Did Not Speak Out’ is part of a quote that I have used during my presentations. This, along with a quote by Robert Kennedy have been cornerstones of my message. As I start another year of bringing my message to young people and adults alike, I thought I would reflect on a few thoughts I have about where we are in society and where we might go.
I have seen quite a change in the twenty years or so since the publication of my book, and the start of my lecture tour. I have seen colleges and universities, that haven’t been quite gay friendly now embrace those who bring diversity to their campus. I have seen how the NCAA has spoken out about embracing diversity, and how they want their member institutions to educate their athletes. I have seen athletic departments, as well their athletic directors, raise the bar on how all athletes will be treated. I have seen how most of the corporate world has changed from tolerating their employees who are gay, to understanding that with them they have a better workforce. I am thrilled that these changes have occurred, but we still have so much to do.
Although these changes have been made, there are still young people and adults who live in fear on a daily basis. Whether it’s a teenager who is getting bullied in school, or the employee who fears of having a picture of the one they love on their desk, the work continues. We must continue to fight for what is right, and speak out against oppression. You don’t have to be gay, to understand that bigotry and hate is wrong. When Dr. King was fighting for civil rights, we saw white people marching along side of him sending a message of unity. Now, the gay community needs the straight community to march alongside them as well. We need to send a strong message to the young people of today (as well as the adults), that their life is worth living, and their future is worth living out. Dr. King said “Hate is easy, love takes courage”. We all must have the courage to speak out! If our society would take the time to speak out as often as they update their status on facebook or tweet their thoughts on twitter, we all would be living in a much better world.
Martin Niemoller was a nationalist and a protestant pastor. The following are his words.
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 out.
Let us not wait until there is no one left to speak out for!!
Thanks for reading, and remember
Never Strike Out!
Peace
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