Letter to the editor — Jan. 19

Don’t let history repeat itself

I have lived in the Land of Enchantment for 10 1/2 years, and I find the people here to be some of the most friendly and helpful anywhere (growing up as an Air Force brat I’ve had the opportunity to meet many, many individuals).

Unfortunately, Reps. David Gallegos, R-Eunice, and Nora Espinoza, R-Roswell, have introduced HB55, legislation that counters everything I’ve experienced in this cordial, beautiful state.

This bill would amend the New Mexico Human Rights Act, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, and overturn the New Mexico Supreme Court’s decision in Elane Photography v. Willock.

In essence, discrimination based on religious beliefs would be allowed, specifically against LGBT New Mexicans.

The Bill of Rights of the United States was ratified in 1791. As we all know, the first amendment in this bill protects the establishment and exercise of religion.

Despite this protection, our state Legislature wants to enact a law that would allow a pediatrician to refuse to care for a child because of his or her parents’ sexual identity or orientation.

It would permit businesses to post signs in their windows declaring LGBT patrons unwelcome.

This country already went through a period when this type of heinous behavior was acceptable. Please, let’s not allow such negative history to repeat itself.

Let Rep. George Dodge, Jr. — [email protected] or 575-986-4227 — know that you do not support HB55.

Krista Jones

Clovis