During my further studying of what occurred during the holocaust to all victims, I remembered about a poem that I, and perhaps you too, read that has a powerful message and shows just how the bystander effect can hurt those who are not having anything done to them.
¨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 helps to show why many people who weren´t Jewish or communist did anything to stop behaviors that were taken by the nazis. They were not the ones being targeted by the government and for that they were grateful but when they themselves were now the ones who were being targeted they all of a sudden are asking for the same help that they didn't give to others before them.
I think this poem is actually contains a really wonderful message that everyone should have in their heart. Even if it's not your people or yourself struggling, you should still speak out for them, and fight for them. In tumulus times like these I think it's important to remember to fight and speak out. Even if our lack of fighting doesn't lead to a holocaust, it's still important to fight for one another.
ReplyDeleteI had not read this poem before but it is honestly so powerful. And I'm glad you shared it. There were so many bystanders during this terrible tragedy, who could have done something to end it.
ReplyDeleteHonestly you can see situations like this, to this day. People only choose to help their people. I think by now, everyone should be coming together and helping one another.