Written by Iliana Martinez, Staff Reporter
A couple of days after Halloween this year is the Virginia midterms on Nov. 3. As usual, campaign messages have been lighting up our TVs and screens and adorning lawns with signage. Around Roanoke College, I have seen a few Beth Macy signs (who is running for representative of District 6), a lot of Hunter Holliday (Salem council member) and many signs that read “Vote No On All 3.”
On the ballot this year for Virginians, there are three proposed amendments to the Virginia constitution, including right to reproductive freedom, ensuring same-sex marriage (should the Supreme Court ever overturn Obergefell v. Hodges), and allowing a formerly incarcerated person to vote once released as well as redefining a person who is unfit to vote.
I was curious about the “Vote No” campaign and why they are so adamant to vote against these changes, specifically the first two. On their website, they state their list of reasons. They claim that the reproductive freedom addition would allow for “on demand” abortions during late term, up until birth, and they worry about the doctor having the final say. However, the proposed amendment would regulate abortion in the third trimester, except that the mother’s life is in danger, and the fetus is no longer viable with the expertise of a medical professional.
In regard to the same-sex marriage amendment, they claim that it will affect wedding businesses who do not want to work with members of the LGBTQ+ community due to faith, as well as Christian schools, churches, and associated organizations. Under the Virginia Values Act, a business cannot turn a customer away based on race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or religion because they are considered public spaces. If that business is explicitly a faith-based organization, they have a right to hire and work with whoever they want. The amendment is only discussing securing the right to give a marriage license to a same-sex couple in the state of Virginia, nothing to do with wedding planning or a ceremony. Religious schools and churches would not be threatened.
When it comes to politics, disinformation is spread all the time on both sides. That gets scary when you are not sure what the truth is or where it comes from. Disinformation also aids politicians by keeping the public confused about what is actually real. The information that I have presented to you comes from a mild level of interrogation of the “Vote No” campaign, and I am sure there is more if you decide to investigate it. So, during this spooky season, do not get tricked by disinformation and be sure to do your own research before the elections. Happy voting!
