Guest Post: Brian Grisset on CACR 17 and NH State Senator Bette Lasky - Granite Grok

Guest Post: Brian Grisset on CACR 17 and NH State Senator Bette Lasky

To the Editor,

On Wednesday I attended the NH House Judiciary Hearing on CACR 17, a proposed revision to our State Constitution adding “gender orientation” to the list of race, creed, color, sex or national origin for which discrimination is prohibited. During the prior Senate Hearings, except for the sponsors of the bill, no one was present to express their opinions on this proposal.

On Wednesday, the House hearing had to be moved to the largest Legislative Office building hearing venue. The prime sponsor Sen. Pierce gave a 15 minute presentation talking about equality and diversity in an ever conflicting, convoluted manner. He then went on for 25 minutes preemptively belittling the arguments of those he anticipated objecting to the bill as written, making many references to discrimination. Another sponsor of the bill, a openly gay State Rep then testified. He testified that he had changed his mind and was now against the bill.

By a 4 to 1 (against v. for) ratio, people expressed their opinions. The majority of those opposed the amendment due to the potential Constitutional and legal conflicts of the poorly worded Amendment. Three members of the clergy did speak against the bill due to the numerous questions and issues created by the bills wording. During this time I have never heard such a shameful, vicious, diatribe against people who have a difference of opinion. No, not from the clergy.

One of the sponsors, State Sen. Bette Lasky sat in front of me and for 2 hours continuously made the most close minded, vile, condescending comments to the woman sitting next to her about those disagreeing with her opinion. Sen. Larsky, what about diversity? What about rights and tolerance? It appears these are only just buzz words for you to get votes. Very disappointing.

Brian Griset
Exeter, NH

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