On April 3rd, New York found itself at the center of a heated debate over the proposed Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) to the state constitution. Critics argue that this measure, set for a decision on November 5th, threatens to significantly diminish parental rights, particularly concerning minors’ access to puberty blockers, gender reassignment surgery, and participation in sports based on gender identity.
The controversy stems from the ERA’s broad language, which aims to prohibit discrimination based on several categories, including gender identity, gender expression, and reproductive healthcare autonomy. While supporters, including Governor Kathy Hochul and Democratic legislators, herald the ERA as a progressive step toward inclusivity, opponents fear it will enable minors to make life-altering medical decisions without parental consent.
The Coalition to Protect Kids, a prominent opponent group, has dubbed the amendment the “Parent Replacement Act.” They argue it could override common sense protections for children, such as age restrictions on alcohol and tobacco purchases, and even statutory rape laws, by its non-discrimination clause. Their campaign highlights concerns that schools could facilitate a minor’s gender transition secretly from parents, posing questions about the balance between individual rights and parental oversight.
Ahmadou Diallo, a parent and community leader, commented on the proposed amendment and said, “No legislator or teacher has the right to circumvent my authority over my children. I am the only one that makes medical or educational decisions for my children. My wife and I are raising our children with our cultural, religious, and family values.”
On the other side of the debate, proponents, including organizations like Planned Parenthood and the New York Immigration Coalition, assert the amendment fortifies fundamental rights and serves as a bulwark against potential future political encroachments. They accuse opponents of fear-mongering and insist the amendment will not strip parents of their rights but rather ensure more equitable treatment across diverse identities in New York.
As the discussion unfolds, both sides mobilize for the upcoming vote, each claiming to represent the best interest of New York’s families and children. Critics of the amendment, including community-based organizations, clergy, and immigrant groups, are planning vigorous campaigns to educate New Yorkers on the detrimental impact of the ERA and its stripping of parents’ right to determine the upbringing of their children.
Susie Wong-Benjamin, a mother and parent leader, said, “As a parent, I’m against this amendment because teachers shouldn’t keep me in the dark about my child or encourage life-altering decisions by minors. I hope to get my naturalization completed so I can vote against the ERA in November.”
Ayesha Kreutz, a representative of The Coalition to Protect Kids-NY, said, “New York State is trying to push through a radical ballot initiative that will strip parents of the right to know what’s going on with their children in school, among other things. Make no mistake about it: This is no ‘Equal Rights Amendment’, it’s a Parent Replacement Act. Parents know what’s best for their children, not Albany bureaucrats. On November 5th vote ‘no’.”
The controversy illuminates deeper societal divisions over gender, identity, and the role of government in personal and family decisions. With the vote on the horizon, New Yorkers are faced with a decision that could redefine legal protections and parental rights in the state, setting a precedent for how sensitive health and identity issues are navigated in public policy.
Watch this video to learn more about how this new proposed law will supersede your parental rights.
