Question #3, Just a Bad Idea
Dear Editor:
I have heard a lot of discussion about ballot Question number 3. The proponents of this bill suggest that this will insure we don’t discriminate against transgender or gender confused individuals. However, this bill is seriously flawed in addressing true discrimination, and the impact of this bill could actually hurt the small percentage of people who identify as transgender.
I am adamantly opposed to discrimination of any kind against any person. I truly believe everyone must be treated with respect and dignity although; this bill is not just about bathrooms. This bill includes public showers, locker rooms and any public accommodation.
The reasons this bill will adversely impact everyone including transgender individuals are:
Even convicted sexual predators and criminals can claim protection under this bill. This opens the door to massive abuse. There is no way under this bill to distinguish between those people the bill intends to help and dangerous predators. This puts those most vulnerable (women and children) at risk.
This bill will foster resentment by people who believe their privacy is being invaded. This will lead to resentment for the very people we are hoping to support.
This bill provides no mechanism to prevent abuse because it prevents challenging individuals who may not be transgender or those who have devious intentions. In fact, questioning anyone claiming transgender protection can lead to fines or even imprisonment by the questioning individual.
I have three daughters.
I would like to help all individuals find their personal happiness. However, we cannot simultaneously endanger and imposition millions in the process. Until then, a no vote is needed to protect the children
Paul Caruccio
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Vote No on Question 5
Dear Editor,
When Winthrop voters head to the polls on Tuesday it is important they are made aware that the non-binding question, called Question 5, is being pushed by two MIT students who do not now nor did they ever live in Winthrop. Yet Question 5 only appears on the Winthrop ballot demonstrating that its sole purpose seems to be to insult our community and our intelligence about the great work of Bob DeLeo, our esteemed state representative. When outsiders come into our town with their only goal to discredit a decent, hardworking, and respected public servant, we must as a town stand up and say “No†to that and “No†on 5.
Bob DeLeo has been a public servant for many years. He served as selectman in our town and has served admirably as our state representative. He always puts his constituency first. We are proud that it is our state rep who has been elected by his peers to be the Speaker of the House. And leadership positions aside, Bob has never has forgotten where he comes from. Bob has always exercised keen judgment and is thoughtful and fair in his leadership roles – doing his best for Winthrop and the rest of the Commonwealth as well. In this world of much uncertainty it is comforting to know we have Bob DeLeo in our corner.
It is our hope that Winthrop votes a resounding no on Question 5, and sends a clear message that we appreciate and support our State Rep., Bob DeLeo, and we don’t appreciate the politics of personal attacks through ballot questions. Winthrop is better than that.
Respectfully,
Catherine DelVento
Councilor Pete Christopher
Council President Ron Vecchia