by Jim Sexton
The Article 22 Constitutional Amendment on the Nov. 8 ballot could result in depriving some Vermonters of their reproductive liberty.
Those pushing it only want you to hear one phrase: “Personal reproductive liberty.” Doesn’t sound that bad, right? Except that isn’t close to what Article 22 is about.
In fact, the promise of reproductive liberty is taken when “State’s Rights” replace the individual’s rights.
Once the State pushes the chemical, physical and psychological changes on an individual there is no more “Reproductive Liberty.” It is gone forever. No more choice for the individual. It was permanently stolen once the State decided to remove any possibility of the individual to ever reproduce.
That is just part of this nightmare. Because regardless of age, if your child tells the school nurse or teacher they no longer want to be a boy or girl, the State could immediately take the decision out of the parents’ hands. Little Susie or Johnny are now State property. If you decide to fight for your child, you could be arrested.
This is what the “State interest” really means.
Abortion till the moment of Birth, provided by anyone that decides they are an abortion provider. With no risk of prosecution regardless of injury or death to the Woman or Girl. Anytime, anywhere, by anyone.
Giving the State control over your children regardless of what parents want. Criminalizing parents and health care workers who would fight to protect the child.
In these situations, Article 22 doesn’t guarantee personal reproductive liberty – it removes it. Doesn’t sound so good anymore, does it?
The author is an Essex Junction resident.