As we’ve seen in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, misinformation is dangerous. Misinformation can prevent people from getting the help they need when they need it the most. 

The misinformation being circulated about the ballot proposition known as Prop. 1 is also dangerous. It plays to people’s fears and prejudices while disregarding the facts. 

Voting no on Prop. 1 can prevent people from receiving the protections they need, and in fact already have under current state law. Prop. 1 closes loopholes in the state constitution to make sure that the government cannot pass policies that discriminate against any New Yorker because of who they are, what they look like or who they love. 

Prop. 1 would block public sector employers from discriminating against older and pregnant New Yorkers when it comes to hiring, promotions and pay.

Prop. 1 would ensure that older New Yorkers and people with disabilities have the access they need to vote.

 Prop. 1 would ensure that women who have been victims of domestic abuse can hold their abusers accountable in court.

Prop. 1 would ensure that a judge could never take away custody of a child based on a parent’s sexual orientation.

 Prop. 1 would ensure that LGBT couples who work in the public sector—like teachers and firefighters—can get the same health care benefits as straight couples.

Prop. 1 would protect abortion and other reproductive rights. 

As has happened in every state considering a pro-choice amendment, anti-abortion activists and lawmakers here in New York have launched a sustained effort to kill Prop. 1. They know that the vast majority of New Yorkers support reproductive health care rights, and they want to prevent us from voting to secure those rights in our Constitution.

Finally, Prop. 1 would strengthen parental rights. It would prevent discriminatory interference with parents and the decisions they make for their children, particularly if those children have any of the protected aspects covered in this law. 

Prop. 1 puts the power to safeguard our rights in the hands of the voters, not government politicians.

For these reasons, I am voting YES on Prop. 1, and I urge you to do the same.

Anne Hart is the chair of the Sullivan County Democratic Committee.