Stand up for what you believe in.

I have the great privilege to be surrounded by some tremendous people here at Carnegie Mellon. The other day we had a discussion and someone brought up the point of contention due to a core belief difference, they quoted the below:

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.

- Martin Niemöller

Martin Niemöller (1892–1984) was a prominent Protestant pastor who emerged as an outspoken public foe of Adolf Hitler and spent the last seven years of Nazi rule in concentration camps. Niemöller is perhaps best remembered for the quotation.

This got me thinking about cultural diversity and equal rights for everyone. Sometimes I think we all take it for granted our freedom and privilege and don't attempt to connect, empathize or sympathize with others. It is our responsibilities as bystanders to speak for our beliefs and challenge our thinking. There is no right or wrong answer because as you debate, there will be learning from both sides as we see their perspective. I challenge you all to not be bystanders and speak out for what you believe.