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[brakester]

112. The Niemller checklist

AI Overview

"The Niemöller checklist, often quoted as "First they came for...", is a quote by Martin Niemöller, a German theologian and Lutheran pastor who initially supported the Nazis but later became an outspoken critic. The quote reflects his regret for not speaking out against the persecution of various groups by the Nazis.
The most common version of the quote is:
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.

Niemöller's quote highlights the dangers of remaining silent when others are being persecuted, emphasizing that the persecution of one group can lead to the persecution of others and eventually affect everyone. He used various versions of the quote, often changing the groups targeted depending on the context of his speeches. Some versions include communists, socialists, trade unionists, Jews, people with disabilities, and Jehovah's Witnesses.
Niemöller's statement is a powerful reminder of the importance of speaking out against injustice and discrimination, even when it doesn't directly affect one's own group. It serves as a warning against indifference and apathy in the face of oppression."