She Took a Stand

April 17, 1945
A young woman, just 25, died
executed
because she loved her country
believed in freedom
and chose to fight against
racism
fascism
discrimination
Hitler and his Nazi regime.
She was only 19 years old
when she chose her path
a vibrant, intelligent girl
with strength and courage.
She refused to turn a blind eye
hide away
betray another person
she did everything she could
to protect her people, her country
nothing was too dangerous
complicated
frightening
difficult
whatever she could do she did
knowing it could cost her her life.
She never faltered
never said no it's too dangerous
never stopped
she wasn't afraid to die
to sacrifice herself for others.
She gave people hope.
She was a resistance fighter
a young woman
who paid for her choice with her life
never to see her country liberated
Hitler and his Nazi's defeated.
Her name was Jannetje Johanna Schaft
Jo or Jopie to friends and family
Hannie to Truus and Freddie Oversteegen
two women who fought by her side.
A symbol of Freedom
A symbol of Resistance
A symbol of a woman's inner strength.
Hannie Schaft
excuted for her courage
a true hero.
Lest We Forget.

Maria Sutherland
March 19, 2004
Canada