Friendships and familial relationships are often considered to be among the most unbreakable bonds in life. However, what happens when these bonds clash with our fundamental human rights? In an era where political decisions and votes have direct implications on the rights of marginalized communities, the question arises: is it okay to walk away from friends and family who vote against your basic human rights? This article explores the reasons why it is not only acceptable but necessary to sever ties with those who support lawmakers and policies that undermine the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals, those living with HIV, and women’s reproductive freedoms.
The Personal Is Political: Understanding the Stakes
To understand why voting against someone’s basic human rights is a dealbreaker in relationships, it’s crucial to recognize that the personal is political. Every vote cast in favour of a lawmaker who seeks to limit the rights of marginalized communities is a direct attack on the lives and well-being of those individuals. For LGBTQIA+ people, those living with HIV, and women fighting for reproductive autonomy, these political decisions are not abstract—they are deeply personal and have life-altering consequences.
LGBTQIA+ Rights Under Attack
In recent years, the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals have been under relentless assault from various political factions. From attempts to ban same-sex marriage to the introduction of “bathroom bills” that target transgender individuals, the fight for equality is far from over. When someone votes for a lawmaker who supports these discriminatory policies, they are endorsing the erosion of the basic human rights of LGBTQIA+ people.
Case in Point: The Fight Against Marriage Equality
The battle for marriage equality was a landmark moment in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights. However, even after the Supreme Court’s decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, the fight continues as some lawmakers seek to overturn or undermine this ruling. Voting for a politician who opposes marriage equality is not just a political stance; it is a direct statement that the love and commitment of LGBTQIA+ couples are less valid than those of their heterosexual counterparts.
The Ongoing Fight Against HIV
The fight against HIV has seen remarkable progress over the past few decades, but the stigma and discrimination faced by those living with HIV persist. Some lawmakers continue to push for policies that criminalize HIV status, restrict access to healthcare, and perpetuate harmful stereotypes. Supporting politicians who advocate for these policies is a betrayal of those who are living with HIV and fighting for their right to live with dignity and access to proper medical care.
Case in Point: The Criminalization of HIV
HIV criminalization laws, which exist in several states, make it a crime for people living with HIV to engage in behaviour perceived as risky, even if there is no intent to harm or if proper precautions are taken. These laws are not only scientifically unfounded but also perpetuate stigma and discrimination. Voting for lawmakers who support these laws is a direct attack on the human rights of those living with HIV.
Women’s Reproductive Rights Under Siege
Perhaps no area has seen more aggressive attacks than women’s reproductive rights. The right to choose, access to contraception, and comprehensive sex education are under constant threat from lawmakers who seek to control women’s bodies. Voting for politicians who aim to restrict or eliminate these rights is an affront to the autonomy and dignity of women everywhere.
Case in Point: The Threat to Roe v. Wade
The landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion nationwide, has been under continuous attack from lawmakers seeking to overturn it. These efforts are not just about abortion; they are about controlling women’s bodies and stripping away their right to make decisions about their own health and futures. Supporting politicians who oppose reproductive rights is a direct attack on women’s freedom and autonomy.
The Moral Imperative to Walk Away
Given the direct and personal impact that political decisions can have on marginalized communities, it becomes a moral imperative to distance oneself from those who support policies that undermine human rights. This is not about intolerance of differing political views; it is about self-preservation and standing up for what is right.
The Emotional Toll of Betrayal
One of the most painful aspects of discovering that a friend or family member has voted against your basic human rights is the sense of betrayal that comes with it. When someone you care about supports policies that harm you or those you love, it feels like a personal attack. This emotional toll can be devastating and can make it impossible to maintain a healthy relationship with that person.
The Importance of Boundaries
Setting boundaries is a crucial aspect of self-care and mental health. When someone’s political choices actively harm you or those you care about, it is essential to set clear boundaries. This might mean ending the relationship or reducing contact with that person. It’s important to remember that you are not obligated to maintain relationships that are harmful to your well-being.
The Power of Solidarity
Walking away from relationships that do not respect your basic human rights is also an act of solidarity with others who are affected by these harmful policies. By refusing to tolerate discriminatory views and actions, you are taking a stand for the rights and dignity of all marginalized people. This act of solidarity can be incredibly powerful and can help build a stronger, more supportive community.
Counterarguments and Rebuttals
Some may argue that it is possible to maintain relationships with those who vote against your rights by “agreeing to disagree.” However, this approach is deeply flawed and dismisses the gravity of the situation. Here’s why:
The “Agree to Disagree” Fallacy
When it comes to fundamental human rights, there is no room for “agreeing to disagree.” This phrase is often used to avoid uncomfortable conversations or to maintain the status quo. However, it ignores the fact that voting against someone’s rights is not a matter of opinion—it is an action that has real and harmful consequences. Agreeing to disagree about someone’s basic human rights is equivalent to agreeing to their oppression.
The Danger of Normalizing Harm
Another argument is that maintaining relationships with those who vote against your rights can provide an opportunity for dialogue and change. While this may be true in some cases, it often serves to normalize harmful views and perpetuate the status quo. By refusing to walk away from these relationships, we risk sending the message that it is acceptable to support policies that harm others. True change requires holding people accountable for their actions, not just engaging in endless dialogue.
The Value of Self-Preservation
Ultimately, it is essential to prioritize your own well-being and the well-being of those who are directly impacted by harmful policies. Walking away from relationships that do not respect your rights is not an act of weakness or intolerance—it is an act of self-preservation and self-respect. You have the right to protect yourself from harm and to demand that those in your life do the same.
Moving Forward: Building a Community of Support
While walking away from relationships that do not respect your basic human rights can be difficult, it is also an opportunity to build a stronger, more supportive community. Surrounding yourself with people who share your values and who are committed to fighting for justice and equality can provide the strength and support you need to continue the fight for your rights.
Finding Allies
One of the most important steps in building a supportive community is finding allies who share your commitment to human rights. This might mean reaching out to LGBTQIA+ organizations, women’s rights groups, or other advocacy organizations. These communities can provide not only emotional support but also resources and tools to help you continue the fight for justice.
Engaging in Activism
Engaging in activism is another powerful way to build community and take action against those who seek to undermine your rights. Whether it’s attending a protest, volunteering for a political campaign, or simply speaking out on social media, activism can help you connect with others who share your values and who are committed to making a difference.
Educating and Empowering Others
Finally, one of the most effective ways to build a supportive community is by educating and empowering others to join the fight for human rights. This might mean having difficult conversations with friends and family members who are open to learning, or it might mean sharing information and resources with others in your community. By educating and empowering others, you can help build a stronger, more inclusive movement for justice.
In a world where political decisions have real and often devastating consequences for marginalized communities, it is not only acceptable but necessary to walk away from relationships that do not respect your basic human rights. This is not a matter of intolerance; it is a matter of self-preservation, solidarity, and justice. By refusing to tolerate discriminatory views and actions, we can build a stronger, more supportive community that is committed to fighting for the rights and dignity of all people. Remember, you have the right to demand that those in your life respect your basic human rights, and you have the right to walk away if they do not.
This feature article emphasizes the gravity of voting against basic human rights and explores why it is crucial to sever ties with those who support lawmakers and policies that harm marginalized communities. It encourages readers to prioritize self-preservation and solidarity and to build a community that is committed to justice and equality for all.
markmunroe
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