Colorado: A State in Decline
Colorado, once celebrated as a family-friendly haven, has descended into a state of decay. Too many people have now witnessed firsthand the deterioration that began in the late ’80s and has accelerated in recent years, transforming the Centennial State into what can only be described as East California. The influence of the Denver-Boulder Axis now dominates the state, reshaping it in ways that are deeply troubling.
A Troubling Trend: Compelled Speech in Schools
The latest manifestation of Colorado’s decline comes in the form of a new law passed by the state legislature and signed by Governor Polis. This law mandates speech on the part of schoolteachers, compelling them to use whatever pronouns a student chooses, regardless of any ethical or religious objections they may hold.
The legislation, outlined in section 2-1-143, expands the definition of harassment or discrimination to include the knowing or intentional use of a name other than a student’s chosen name. This means that if a student requests to be known by a name that differs from their legal name to reflect their gender identity, teachers are required to comply.
The Impact on Parents: Exclusion and Disempowerment
This law effectively cuts parents out of the equation, denying them any say in how their children are addressed at school. Schools are under no obligation to seek parental input or even notify parents when their child decides to adopt a new name and pronouns. This represents a blatant disregard for parental rights and a troubling erosion of family values.
First Amendment Violations: Compulsion vs. Freedom of Speech
Furthermore, this law directly contradicts the First Amendment, which protects freedom of speech. Compelling teachers and school administrators to use specific pronouns violates this fundamental constitutional right. It forces individuals to speak in a manner dictated by the state, without regard for personal beliefs or convictions.
The Potential for Legal Challenges
Given these constitutional violations, it’s only a matter of time before legal challenges arise. Activists and concerned citizens, including prominent figures like Harmeet K. Dhillon, have already condemned the law. It’s clear that this legislation is a First Amendment lawsuit waiting to happen, and any judge who values sanity and constitutional principles should strike it down without hesitation.
A Baffling Justification: The “Safety Clause”
Perhaps most baffling is the inclusion of a “safety clause” in the legislation, claiming that the law is necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety. This assertion is patently absurd and raises serious questions about the motives behind the law. How does compelling speech in schools contribute to public safety? The answer, quite simply, is that it doesn’t.
A State in Decline
Colorado was once a beacon of opportunity and family-friendly values. Its stunning scenery, recreational opportunities, and quality schools made it an ideal place to raise a family. However, with each passing day, that reputation is tarnished further. The passage of laws like this one only serves to underscore the sad truth: Colorado is no longer the great state it once was. It’s time for concerned citizens to stand up and demand better for the future of our children and our state.
