Saturday, December 28, 2019

Dad, "do not worry. I will be fine for telling the truth."


These words. 
This moment 
moved me. 
I too was born
in the Soviet Union
where I know
- like in many other countries around the word -
it would not have been
safe
to speak up
or to speak out;
where it would not 
have been safe 
to speak the truth.
Perhaps it is the absence of,
knowing what it means to go without,
that makes one treasure 
liberty and savor it
- that makes one yearn so audaciously
to preserve it,
to uphold it,
to defend it.
I am #grateful
for the #freedom of speech.
#freedomofspeech #USA

Lt. Col. Vindman spoke these words on Nov 19, 2019 in his opening statement to the House Intelligence Committee. The Pentagon "has protections for whistleblowers -- they're guaranteed in law," said Defense Secretary Mark Esper.

#speakup #speakout