“First They Came” (a poem)

A poem by Anon. undocumented in the UK "First They Came" (a poem) First they came for the undocumented immigrants, and I did not speak out— Because I was not undocumented. Then they came for the asylum seekers, and I did not speak out— Because I was not seeking refuge. Then they came for those on temporary visas, and I did not speak out— Because my status was “secure”. Then they came for citizens whose parents were born elsewhere, and I did not speak out— Because I was told my family had always belonged. Then they came for me— And there was no one left to speak for me. - Anon. undocumented in the UK

“First They Came

First they came for the undocumented immigrants, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not undocumented.

Then they came for the asylum seekers,
and I did not speak out—
Because I was not seeking refuge.

Then they came for those on temporary visas, and I did not speak out—
Because my status was “secure”.

Then they came for citizens whose parents
were born elsewhere, and I did not speak out—
Because I was told my family had always belonged.

Then they came for me—
And there was no one left to speak for me.

– Anon. undocumented in the UK

History has shown that when we stay silent, injustice spreads and becomes the norm. Who will speak if you don’t?

Every single day is a day to stand up for those experiencing dehumanisation and marginalisation.

“We need you to speak up, even when it seems like we’re OK (we aren’t). Every day is a struggle!”

Take action: Sign and share those petitions. Write to your MP. Challenge anti-migrant rhetoric whenever you hear it—those who oppose migration are loud, and their influence is growing. Join and support resistance against injustice.

Speak with your friends, neighbours, and colleagues about why undocumented people’s human rights must be upheld, including through the expansion of regularisation for all and an end to hostile policies against migrants.

Contribute to hardship funds. Help provide housing, resources, and community support.

“Do what you can and everything possible to ensure our survival in an increasingly hostile environment.”

If not now, when? If not you, who?

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