First they came for the Communists, and I did not speak out
because I was not a Communist
Then 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 for me
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIpyGQxa2ZY
A famous provocative poem by Martin Niemöller (1892–1984) about the cowardice of German intellectuals following the Nazis' rise to power and the subsequent purging of their chosen targets, group after group.
Dear Citizens of Singapore,
Call us the Cyber Warriors or Keyboard Warriors as much as you like, our mission is here to stay.
The popularity of social media and alternative news and discussion sites have allowed us to share the voices of the people while questioning the status quo and challenging the policy makers to create a more inclusive and democratic society. It has also empowered the citizens to voice our oppressions and grievances, as well as criticize and highlight any flawed policies that have oppressed any minority or majority groups.
While not every story will replicate the situation we are facing, but we should not stand aside and let oppression occur simply because we aren't the target or victims of said oppressions, because one day we might become the victims and then nobody will defend us.
Singapore has state-controlled media, restrictions of public free speech and now even MDA is looking to regulate the internet. Cartoonists and bloggers have been sued while websites have been shut down, even those elected by the people are openly criticizing Singaporeans for not complying to what is imposed on us. Never once did we speak up when one by one our rights are taken away from us.
WE, THE CITIZENS OF SINGAPORE, PLEDGE OURSELVES AS ONE UNITED PEOPLE
If you do not speak up for the ones who has spoken for you and we simply continue to accept greater restrictions imposed on us, then you may just regret the day when there is no one left to speak for you.
Whether you’re a cartoonist or writer, lawyer or activist, politician or just an average worker, it is each and every one of our citizen’s duty to help our fellow Singaporean. Stand up for what is right and claim back the power that belongs to the people. Singaporeans will decide what we want Singapore to become.
Do not lose your rights, let us pick up this fight today and we will not be a silenced community!
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doomoo
TRS Contributor