Oppose service denial bill

Dear fellow Vandals,

I oppose bills H0426 and H0427 that passed in the Idaho House State Affairs Committee last week.

I’m dismayed by this malicious legislation, for one reason. Discrimination against people based on faith isn’t a right reserved for businesses. Complete non-discrimination should be a human right guaranteed to all. If passed, this bill will solidify the notion that “sinners” receive their shame parade every time they order coffee, seek employment or even sit down in a classroom.

When I was a freshman in high school, my classmates bullied me for being gay. Deeply depressed and seeking an end to the torturous presumptions and rumors, I considered one absolute solution — suicide via jumping off the Perrine Bridge. Thanks to encouraging and unwavering support from my sisters and friends, I am still here today.

Love doesn’t discriminate on skin color, faith or gender. I currently live with my boyfriend of almost a year in an apartment close to campus. We lead chaotic lives of class, extracurricular activities and part time jobs, but we are enjoying creating the foundation of our relationship. However, I’m becoming increasingly aware of the inherent “bubble” that we’re living in compared to the rest of Idaho.

I’ve come to terms with the ramifications of my sexuality — though in an ideal world there wouldn’t be any — but what about the Idahoans who are to be shunned and exiled if this bill passes?

State-sponsored discrimination sends a loud message to everyone whose lives haven’t panned out to a religious doctrine that they are second-rate citizens.

I hope my peers advocate for equal protection so that future generations are accepted by their state. For bridges should connect people to exciting new adventures — not to provide a means to execute their end.

–Jim Martinez, UI student

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