New York's Proposition One: A Potential Trojan Horse
A proposed amendment to New York's constitution, known as "Proposal Number One" or "Prop One", is causing quite a stir. This amendment, although only applicable to New York, could potentially have repercussions across the United States. This is due to the fact that radical policies originating in New York often spread to other states. Moreover, this amendment is being viewed as a Trojan Horse, with its true implications hidden behind a facade of equality and fairness.
What is Prop One?
The politicians advocating for this amendment are the same ones responsible for controversial policies such as No-Cash-Bail, Clean Slate, Raise the Age, and Congestion Pricing. They are marketing Prop One as an “Equal Rights Amendment” that will safeguard abortion rights in New York. However, the wording on the ballot doesn't mention any of these terms. Instead, it appears to promote equal treatment for all, which is a universally appealing concept. However, critics argue that this amendment won't grant any new equal rights, as all the categories mentioned are already protected under New York State laws. Instead, they believe it will diminish individual rights and give more power to the politicians in charge.
The Ballot Language
The ballot for Prop One includes an introductory statement followed by the proposed changes to the constitution. The introduction states that the amendment is designed to protect against unequal treatment based on ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, and reproductive healthcare and autonomy. It then asks voters to vote "YES" to include these protections in the New York State Constitution, or "NO" to leave them out.
The proposed constitutional changes include a clause stating that no person shall be denied equal protection of the laws or be subjected to discrimination based on any of the characteristics listed. Another clause states that this section will not invalidate or prevent any law, regulation, program, or practice designed to prevent or dismantle discrimination based on these characteristics.
Potential Consequences of Prop One
Critics argue that if Prop One passes, it could lead to a number of negative consequences. These could include a weakening of parental rights, making New York a permanent sanctuary state for illegal immigrants, and allowing non-citizens to claim a constitutional right to receive the same taxpayer-funded benefits as citizens. It could also lead to the abolition of single-sex spaces such as schools, colleges, clubs, and organizations, and potentially limit free speech and legalize reverse discrimination.
Opposition to Prop One
Cartoonist Anne Gibbons has been creating drawings that highlight the potential dangers of Prop One. Her work emphasizes the Trojan Horse nature of this proposed amendment, suggesting that its true implications are hidden behind a facade of equality and fairness.
Bottom Line
Prop One is a controversial proposed amendment to New York's constitution that could have far-reaching implications. While it is presented as an equal rights amendment, critics argue that it could lead to a range of negative consequences. What are your thoughts on this issue? Do you think Prop One is a Trojan Horse, or a necessary step towards equality? Share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, available every day at 6pm.
