First. They. Came.

Donald Trump, the leading republican presidential candidate seems to have your attention; what and how he says things is another story.

SOURCE: New York Magazine

His most recent proposal without any specifics entails the following statement; "Donald J. Trump is calling for a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States until our country's representatives can figure out what is going on".

There has been other comments or rhetoric that Trump has amp up as more noise, and in most cases generally humorous and ridiculous.

Lately however, I've been sitting on the sidelines quietly disagreeing with this individual. Initially, it didn't bother me because I imagined it was mere entertainment not real politics where our livelihood would be at stake. Now, I've come to realize this is no longer a joke.

I needed to learn more about this individual. I've paid more attention to most all of the news outlets, many liberal or mainstream. At times, I give it some balance by watching other moderate and conservative news stations.

Politics can be a strange process; usually at the end of a candidate's campaign everything makes sense. We move on to the fact that what was decided is set and we adjust, adapt, and move on.

But there is a danger here. We as a society can become very passive and hope things will shake out to our own "safe" expectation. Think twice.

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:

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.


CREDIT: US Holocaust Memorial Museum

"there was no one left to speak for me" A haunting phrase that clearly resonates with today's current "politician", Donald J. Trump. In my life so far, I've seen remnants of the effects of dangerous rhetoric against Jews, Japanese-Americans, Asians, women, undocumented immigrants, and gays and lesbians. Do I need to go on?

As we close 2015, we should pay close attention to the new election year; reach out to be aware of your choice of candidate that will ensure equality for all. That's an American ideal. Make sure your registered to vote; and vote please. https://www.usa.gov/register-to-vote

Make your vote and voice count. If not, who will speak for you?

Oh. Happy. Day.

It's official.

After all these years of false starts and renewed hope, the United States of America [USA] Supreme Court finally ruled that same-sex couples can marry nationwide, establishing a new civil right and handing gay rights advocates a historic victory.

Close to nearly half a century ago, "after a riot at New York's Stonewall Inn ushered in the modern gay rights movement, the decision could settle one of the major civil rights fights of this era." CNN source

Who would have thought? As a young man, coming right of high school would I never have encountered the magnitude of this decision by the supreme court. It amazes me on how our lives will change in this regard. Very few ever dreamed a day like this would ever exist much less become a reality to many.

This is a moment to celebrate again, but unfortunately, with vigilance as for some who are not for this ruling [i.e. FOX "News"] will be quick to denounce, engage in hate [what's new?], and attempt to deem it to be immoral and not right.

However, at the end of this day, only America and their role to pursue life, liberty and happiness can be savored. I will. Join me and celebrating this momentous time in our lives. Be it for or against this right. Today, we have a right to be one and be "marry".

Photo: CNN



A blog writer based in San Francisco, California providing spontaneous thoughts, and comments on local, national, and international news that is note worthy -- relating to gay and lesbians in the areas of politics, entertainment, media, world, sports, art, and life.