Chart
| Issue | State Issue | Federal Issue | Both | |---------------------------------------------|-------------|---------------|------| | Climate Change | | | ✔ | | Racial Equity | | | ✔ | | Women’s Rights | | | ✔ | | Gun Rights and Control | | | ✔ | | Abortion | | | ✔ | | LGBTQ rights | | | ✔ | | Voting Rights | | | ✔ | | Universal Basic Income | | | ✔ | | Universal Health Care | | | ✔ | | Decriminalization of some drugs (marijuana, THC, etc) | ✔ | | |
Question 2
- Pick one of the above issues and name it here:
LGBTQ Rights
Question 3
- Do you think this issue is federal or state and why is this issue important?
I think LGBTQ rights is both a federal and state issue. While federal laws such as the Equality Act aim to protect LGBTQ individuals from discrimination, states also have the power to enact or repeal laws that influence LGBTQ rights on a local level. It's important because it directly affects the rights of individuals, their ability to live freely and authentically, and the protection against discrimination in various aspects of life including employment, housing, and healthcare.
Question 4
- What are four specific examples of how this issue can affect people?
- Employment Discrimination: LGBTQ individuals may face discrimination in hiring or workplace environments, affecting their job security and financial stability.
- Healthcare Access: Discriminatory practices in healthcare can lead to inadequate medical care for LGBTQ individuals, impacting their overall health and well-being.
- Family Rights: Issues related to marriage, adoption, and parental rights can create barriers for LGBTQ couples, affecting their family structure and legal recognition.
- Social Stigma: The lack of legal protections for LGBTQ individuals can contribute to societal stigma and discrimination, impacting mental health and community engagement.
Question 5
- What are at least two different opinions about the best policies for this issue?
Opinion A: Some advocates believe that comprehensive federal legislation, such as the Equality Act, should be passed to ensure uniform protections for LGBTQ rights across all states, as this would provide a safeguard against discrimination.
Opinion B: Others argue that LGBTQ rights should be addressed at the state level, allowing local governments to tailor regulations and protections to the specific needs and values of their communities, thereby fostering a more immediate and culturally relevant response.
Question 6
- What are some special interest groups that are involved with this issue? Name 2 from either side or opinion.
- Human Rights Campaign (HRC): A prominent organization advocating for LGBTQ rights and equality at both the state and federal levels.
- Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF): A conservative group that often argues against expanding LGBTQ rights, advocating for religious freedoms and traditional family values.
Question 7
- What is something that YOU can do to take action to solve this issue at the local, state, and federal level?
Local: Engage with local LGBTQ advocacy groups and participate in community events to promote awareness and support for LGBTQ rights.
State: Advocate for state legislation that protects LGBTQ individuals from discrimination and encourages the inclusion of LGBTQ topics in school curriculums.
Federal: Support nationwide legislation, like the Equality Act, by contacting your congressional representatives and advocating for their support in protecting LGBTQ rights.