State of Utah Archives: on Civil Rights


ACLU: Gay marriage bans deny rights to loving & committed couples

A federal judge in Utah struck down the state's ban on same-sex marriage, saying the law violates the US Constitution's guarantees of equal protection and due process: "The state's current laws deny its gay and lesbian citizens their fundamental right to marry and, in so doing, demean the dignity of these same-sex couples for no rational reason. Accordingly, the court finds that these laws are unconstitutional."

The judge said that while he agreed with Utah that marriage has traditionally been left to regulation by the states: "The issue the court must address in this case is not who should define marriage, but the narrow question of whether Utah's current definition of marriage is permissible under the Constitution."

The ACLU of Utah filed an amicus brief in the case and legal director John Mejia said the organization was "thrilled" by the decision. "We think that it was a discriminatory law that only served to deny loving and committed couples the protection and dignity of marriage," he said

Source: Salt Lake Tribune, "Marriage & Utah laws" Dec 20, 2013

Allen Glines: Forbid discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals

Source: 2021 Utah Senate campaign website AllenGlines.com Jul 21, 2021

Austin Searle: Pass the Personal Privacy Act; stop sharing of personal data

The Personal Privacy Act is about protecting our rights. We need to ban robocalls and safeguard our personal information. Did you know that companies share and sell your personal information to major corporations when you give your phone number on a website, email, sign papers when buying or financing leases, etc.? Companies will share and sell your private information with their partners or allies. We need to ban this.
Source: 2021-2022 Utah Senate race website AustinForSenate.com Jun 27, 2021

Craig Bowden: Same-sex marriage isn't my business to restrict

Q: Do you agree or disagree with the statement, "Comfortable with same-sex marriage"?

A: It doesn't affect me, so it is not my business to restrict.

Source: OnTheIssues interview of 2018 Utah Senate candidate Feb 28, 2018

Danny Drew: Supported gay marriage from a young age

As a 12-year-old, [Danny Drew] had done a whole lot of soul-searching, prayer and research on gay marriage. So back in 1991, fully 26 years before Obergefell v. Hodges changed the American landscape in legalizing same-sex marriage nationally, that 12-year-old decided that he favored it. He did so as a member of a religion whose leaders, regarded as prophets, have until only recently preached in that capacity to oppose gay marriage politically.
Source: Good Men Project on 2018 Utah Senatorial race Jun 21, 2017

Evan McMullin: Condemn bigotry including based on sexual orientation

We reaffirm the self-evident truth that all persons are created equal and free, having the same inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and that it is the prerogative of all to make personal decisions in accordance with their free will. We therefore condemn all forms of bigotry such as racism, antisemitism and other religious intolerance, sexism, and persecution based on sexual orientation.
Source: 2022 Utah Senate campaign website EvanMcMullin.com Jun 10, 2022

Jenny Wilson: Fight to get same-sex benefits

Jenny Wilson, a former Salt Lake County Council member and the lone woman in the race, said she had worked in a bipartisan way to get things accomplished--including fighting to get same-sex benefits in Salt Lake County.
Source: David Montero in Salt Lake Tribune on 2018 Utah Senate race Nov 28, 2012

Jenny Wilson: Supports bill honoring women's suffrage and women's rights

[Citing a Facebook posting from betterdays2020.com]: "Celebrating Utah and national suffrage anniversaries in the year 2020 in creative and communal ways. By popularizing the history of women's rights and women's first votes, we open doors to conversations about women in the present and future."

Jenny Wilson for Senate Facebook response: "Along with dozens of Utah women supporting Better Days 2020, I headed to Utah's capitol today to observe the Senate vote to place a statue of Martha Hughes Cannon in the U.S. Capitol's Statuary Hall. It passed the Senate! Now along to the House. Martha Hughes Cannon, first woman in the U.S. to be elected to a State Senate seat, is the right woman to represent Utah's historic support of suffrage and voting rights."

Source: Facebook posting on 2018 Utah Senate race Jan 29, 2018

Jenny Wilson: Let's keep MLK's dream alive

[Citing a Facebook posting from KUTV.COM]: "Hundreds of people in Salt Lake City marched in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.: As Utah celebrates Martin Luther King Day, many are unaware that the reverend visited the Beehive State during the budding days of the civil rights movement."

Jenny Wilson for Senate Facebook response: "Today, we reflect on Dr. King's legacy and how to continue it in every realm of our lives. In our neighborhoods & schools. In our businesses & our churches. In our government, our public discourse, & our policies towards newcomers. He had a dream. Let's keep it alive.

Source: Facebook posting on 2018 Utah Senate race Jan 15, 2018

Jonathan Johnson: Marriage is between a man and a woman

Marriage has always been a state issue, and should be left up to the states. Along with the majority of Utahns, I believe marriage is between a man and a woman, and the legal definition of marriage should be decided by Utahns and not by federal government mandate.
Source: 2016 Utah Gubernatorial campaign website, HireJJ.com Dec 10, 2015

Kamala Harris: First female DA in SF; Second black female senator

Joe asked me to serve with him because I have a career that included being elected the first woman District Attorney of San Francisco. I was elected the first woman of color to be elected Attorney General of the state of California. I serve in the United States Senate as only the second black woman ever elected to the United States Senate. I serve on the Senate Intelligence Committee where I've been in regular receipt of classified information about threats to our nation.
Source: 2020 Vice-Presidential Debate in Utah Oct 7, 2020

Kamala Harris: Inspired by diverse Americans marching for equal justice

It brings me to the eight minutes and 46 seconds that America witnessed during which a man was tortured and killed under the knee of an armed uniformed police officer. People around our country of every race, of every age, of every gender, perfect strangers to each other, marched shoulder to shoulder, arm in arm, fighting for us to finally achieve that ideal of equal justice under law. I was a part of those protests.
Source: 2020 Vice-Presidential Debate in Utah Oct 7, 2020

Mike Pence: Trump condemns neo-Nazis and has Jewish grandchildren

The President condemned the KKK, neo-Nazis and white supremacists and has done so repeatedly. You're concerned that he doesn't condemn neo-Nazis. President Trump has Jewish grandchildren. His daughter and son-in-law are Jewish. This is a President who respects and cherishes all of the American people.
Source: 2020 Vice-Presidential Debate in Utah Oct 7, 2020

Mike Weinholtz: Equal pay laws end illegal wage discrimination against women

In Utah, women make 67 cents for every dollar paid to men, the second-worst gender wage gap in the nation. The difference is even larger for women of color. I believe in equal pay for equal work and at CHG Healthcare I worked hard to close the pay gap and encourage women to take on leadership roles. Last year, we were recognized as the 15th best place in America for women to work.

As governor, I will ensure that public and private employers in Utah are complying with state and federal equal pay laws and remove barriers to compensation for those who have faced illegal wage discrimination. We also need to make it easier for women to remain in the workforce though programs like paid family leave, because when women can balance work and family, our economy grows. Further, we need to increase the wages women earn, both by raising the minimum wage and encouraging more girls and women to study STEM fields.

Source: 2016 Utah gubernatorial campaign website MikeForUtah.com Jun 17, 2016

Mike Weinholtz: Early champion of marriage equality

When the early nondiscrimination efforts were being advanced in the Utah Legislature, Mike was right by our side, testifying on our behalf. Mike was also an early champion of marriage equality. He threw his support behind efforts to provide loving same-sex couples the legal rights to become full Americans. As a business leader, Mike led the way at CHG Healthcare to ensure that LGBTQ employees had every right and privilege that his straight employees enjoy.
Source: Equality Utah PAC on 2016 Utah governor race Sep 13, 2016

Mike Weinholtz: 100% score from Equality Utah for pro-LGBT policy stances

Mike Weinholtz received a grade of 100% from Equality Utah, indicated pro-LGBT policy stances, as indicated in their 2016 Voter Guide

Organizational statement: The 2016 voter guide is a project of The Equality Utah Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization. This guide is intended for educational purposes only. Appearing in this guide does not constitute an endorsement from the Equality Utah PAC, a 527 organization.

Source: Equality Utah Voter Guide on 2016 Utah Gubernatorial race Sep 9, 2016

Misty Snow: Protect rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans* people

While there has been significant progress over the last few years to help protect the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans* (LGBT) people, much still needs to be done before we have full equality under the law. As a member of the LGBT community, I care very deeply about these issues and want to see an end to all forms of discrimination.

It is still legal in most states to fire someone or deny them the right to work simply because they are LGBT. It's time we passed an employment non-discrimination act in congress that would protect the rights of LGBT people to work.

We are seeing conservative lawmakers trying to pass legislation that would ban trans* people from being able to access appropriate restrooms, changing rooms, and locker rooms. As a trans woman I find this trend to be very problematic as these kinds of laws do not protect anyone or solve any problems; they only exist to create barriers for trans* people trying to live normal and authentic lives.

Source: 2016 Utah Senate campaign website MistyKSnow.com Aug 8, 2016

Misty Snow: Ratify treaty on Elimination of Discrimination Against Women

It's time to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, which shows a commitment for respecting the rights of women. We signed the treaty in 1980 but failed to ratify it. It's past time for us to show women that we care about women's rights and are committed to ending all discrimination against them.
Source: 2016 Utah Senate campaign website MistyKSnow.com Aug 8, 2016

Orrin Hatch: 1977: No gay teachers; 2018: No LGBT discrimination

Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT), quoted by the Salt Lake Tribune in 1977: "I wouldn't want to see homosexuals teaching school anymore than I'd want to see members of the American Nazi Party teaching school."

Hatch, quoted by the Washington Post, in a speech yesterday honoring Pride Month: "No one should ever feel less because of their gender identity or sexual orientation. LGBT youth deserve our unwavering love and support. They deserve our validation and the assurance that not only is there a place for them in this society, but that it is far better off because of them. These young people need us--and we desperately need them. We need their light to illuminate the richness and diversity of God's creations. We need the grace, beauty and brilliance they bring to the world."

Source: PoliticalWire.com o 2018 Utah Senate race Jun 14, 2018

Rocky Anderson: Equal rights for gays and lesbians

Recognition of the equal rights of gays and lesbians, and decent treatment of everyone regardless of their sexual orientation, is indeed one of the crucial civil rights issues of our time. Although personal prejudices are difficult to overcome, we can--and should--achieve an approach in our public dealings that promotes fundamental morality--love, respect and compassion for all of our brothers and sisters. And, in our public and personal lives, we can endeavor to comply with what is perhaps the greatest of all moral injunctions: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Or, as Rabbi Hillel (first century BCE) implored: 'What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow creature. That is the whole Law; the rest is commentary.'
Source: Anderson interview: The Enterprise, Utah's Business Journal Dec 1, 1997

Spencer Cox: Wants "Utah solution" to protecting LGTBQ kids

He drew national headlines in 2016 for an emotional speech he gave reacting to the Orlando nightclub massacre that left 49 people dead. He apologized for how he treated kids growing up in his small hometown who he now realizes were gay. This year, Cox delivered an apology to protesters frustrated about the gutting of a bill to ban gay conversion therapy. He said Tuesday he's still working to find a "Utah solution" to protect LGTBQ kids during the next legislative session.
Source: Associated Press coverage of 2020 Utah gubernatorial race May 14, 2019

Spencer Cox: Understanding & respect for differing sexual orientations

Cox garnered national attention in a speech made at a vigil in the aftermath of the Orlando, Florida, nightclub shooting that went viral, earning praise from Republicans and Democrats alike for its simple plea for understanding and respect for those with differing sexual orientations.

Does that make Cox too moderate for the conservative stronghold in Utah's Republican elite? He doesn't think so. "It is interesting that sometimes we confuse moderation with kindness and I hate that. It doesn't have to be that way. That is not the party I believe in. The conservative Republican party I believe in is a party of inspiration, not a party of insults. It is a party of making sure everyone has opportunity and we lift people, especially at the margins, up. By the way, that is where the Republican Party of Utah is. Nationally, not as much."

Source: Deseret News on 2020 Utah Gubernatorial race May 14, 2019

Vaughn Cook: Dems respect that most Utahns prefer traditional marriage

A revised platform intended to give the Democratic Party more mainstream voter appeal in Utah County was adopted. That makeover includes a Republican-like definition of marriage and follows The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' position on abortion. But that doesn't mean Utah County Democrats have taken an if-you-can't-beat-'em-join-'em philosophy, said Vaughn Cook, chairman of the Utah County Democratic Party. "I think (the new platform) is a good reflection of the attitudes and beliefs of most Democrats in Utah County," Cook said.

On the topic of families, the platform states that Utah County Democrats, like most Utahns, "define marriage as the union of one man and one woman." That statement is followed by more open-minded language: "However, we also acknowledge that some have deeply held and sometimes differing views on this issue. We seek to understand those differences in a spirit of civility, hope and mutual respect."

Source: Deseret News on 2016 Utah Gubernatorial race Jun 14, 2006

Spencer Cox: He promoted equity, diversity across state agencies

Cox spoke about inclusivity while running for the state's highest office, gave equality and opportunity a section in the document laying out goals for his administration and asked his senior staff to complete training on empathy, race and "the intersectional Utah story." He created new positions to coordinate equity initiatives and promote diversity across state agencies.
Source: Salt Lake Tribune on 2024 Utah Gubernatorial race Jul 19, 2023

ACLU: Truthful discussions on racism and sexism in classrooms

HB427: This bill ensures that all instructional materials and classroom instruction are consistent with the principles of inalienable rights, equal opportunity, and individual merit.

Opinion by ABC4 in favor:According to HB427, there are things that should not be addressed by teachers when it comes to racism, sexism, ageism, religious discrimination, & more.

Proposed veto letter by ACLU of Utah:We firmly believe that young people have the right to an inclusive, accurate, and honest education, free from censorship or discrimination. They deserve to learn about our state and nation's past, present, and future in a comprehensive and truthful manner. Unfortunately, we fear H.B.427 may create more problems than it solves, especially when addressing challenging topics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, and systemic injustices.

Legislative Outcome:Passed Senate 18-6-5 on Mar/2/23; passed House 53-18-4 on Mar/3/23; signed by Gov. Cox on Mar/15/23.

Source: ABC4 & ACLU on Utah legislative voting record: HB427 Dec 23, 2023

Phil Lyman: Supports consenting adults, opposes gender indoctrination

Phil supports and promotes individual rights including the rights of consenting adults to choose their lifestyle, but standing firmly against actions that harm children, including gender indoctrination, hormone therapy, and gender mutilation. No men in women's locker rooms or boys in girls' sports.
Source: 2024 Utah Gubernatorial campaign website LymanForUtah.com Dec 21, 2023

Phil Lyman: Restrict discussions on racism and sexism in classrooms

HB427: This bill ensures that all instructional materials and classroom instruction are consistent with the principles of inalienable rights, equal opportunity, and individual merit.

Opinion by ABC4 in favor:A new bill would change how teachers discuss racism and sexism in their classrooms. According to HB427, there are things that should be, and should not be addressed by teachers when it comes to racism, sexism, ageism, religious discrimination, and more.

Proposed veto letter by ACLU of Utah:We firmly believe that young people have the right to an inclusive, accurate, and honest education, free from censorship or discrimination. Unfortunately, we fear H.B.427 may create more problems than it solves, especially when addressing challenging topics such as race, gender, sexual orientation & systemic injustices.

Legislative Outcome:Passed Senate 18-6-5 on Mar/2/23; passed House 53-18-4 on Mar/3/23; Rep. Lyman voted YES; signed by Gov. Cox on Mar/15/23.

Source: ABC4 & ACLU on Utah legislative voting record: HB427 Mar 3, 2023

Spencer Cox: Restrict discussions on racism and sexism in classrooms

HB427: This bill ensures that all instructional materials and classroom instruction are consistent with the principles of inalienable rights, equal opportunity, and individual merit.

Opinion by ABC4 in favor:A new bill would change how teachers discuss racism and sexism in their classrooms. According to HB427, there are things that should be, and should not be addressed by teachers when it comes to racism, sexism, ageism, religious discrimination, and more.

Proposed veto letter by ACLU of Utah:We firmly believe that young people have the right to an inclusive, accurate, and honest education, free from censorship or discrimination. Unfortunately, we fear H.B.427 may create more problems than it solves, especially when addressing challenging topics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, and systemic injustices.

Legislative Outcome:Passed Senate 18-6-5 on Mar/2/23; passed House 53-18-4 on Mar/3/23; signed by Governor Spencer Cox on Mar/15/23.

Source: ABC4 & ACLU on Utah legislative voting record: HB427 Mar 15, 2023

Brian King: Gender/sexual orientation not simply black and white

King said the issue is more complicated than how conservatives have portrayed it. "Things are not simply black and white, in terms of gender orientation, sexual orientation, gender identification. It's definitely not accurate to say that girls are girls and boys are boys," he said, a comment which drew moans from the public. "Our public education students deserve better than that from us."
Source: Salt Lake Tribune on 2024 Utah Gubernatorial race Mar 25, 2022

Brian King: Don't restrict discussions on racism/sexism in classrooms

HB427: This bill ensures that all instructional materials and classroom instruction are consistent with the principles of inalienable rights, equal opportunity, and individual merit.

Opinion by ABC4 in favor:A new bill would change how teachers discuss racism and sexism in their classrooms. According to HB427, there are things that should be, and should not be addressed by teachers when it comes to racism, sexism, ageism, religious discrimination, and more.

Proposed veto letter by ACLU of Utah:We firmly believe that young people have the right to an inclusive, accurate, and honest education, free from censorship or discrimination. Unfortunately, we fear H.B.427 may create more problems than it solves, especially when addressing challenging topics such as race, gender, sexual orientation & systemic injustices.

Legislative Outcome:Passed Senate 18-6-5 on Mar/2/23; passed House 53-18-4 on Mar/3/23; Rep. King voted NO; signed by Gov. Cox on Mar/15/23.

Source: ABC4 & ACLU on Utah legislative voting record: HB427 Mar 3, 2023

Spencer Cox: Paused transgender surgeries for minors, funded talk therapy

I know last session, there were difficult and controversial bills, including a pause on transgender surgeries and puberty blockers for minors which I supported. At the same time, we also unanimously passed a ban on conversion therapy and approved $1 million in funding to provide additional talk therapy for our transgender youth with one primary goal: to help those kids and let them know we want to keep you here. We want you to stay with us. Even when we disagree passionately, we must still love.
Source: 2024 State of the State Address to the Utah legislature Jan 18, 2024

Brad Wilson: Appointed anti-trans activist to trans sports commission

A pediatrician who travels the country testifying in courts against the transgender community was appointed by outgoing Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson to be part of the commission that will determine a transgender girl's eligibility to play in school sports. Dr. Paul Hruz will serve on Utah's School Activity Eligibility Commission. He will serve the place of "a board-certified physician with expertise in gender identity healthcare," even though he has never practiced gender identity healthcare.
Source: QSalt Lake Magazine on 2024 Utah Senate race Sep 21, 2023

Brad Wilson: Signed Compact on Racial Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Governor Herbert and other community leaders gathered to announce the creation and signing of the Utah Compact on Racial Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. The Compact addresses structural, systemic racism, defining it as the system of "ideas, beliefs, practices, structures and policies that give some people greater opportunity to be fully human and live a happier and healthier life than others." The Compact has already been signed by many including House Speaker Brad Wilson.
Source: UtahPolicy.com on 2024 Utah Senate race Dec 16, 2020

Brian King: We deserve better than anti-DEI and anti-LGBTQ+ laws

Gubernatorial candidate and State Representative, Brian S. King, released the following statement on Governor Cox signing anti-DEI and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation into law:

"Extreme, divisive, and unnecessary legislation. Is this who we are? Is this who we want to be? Is this the legacy we want to leave? I've said it before and I'll say it again: you deserve better."

Source: 2024 Utah Governor press release: "2024: Anti-DEI" Jan 30, 2024

Brad Wilson: Restrict discussions on racism and sexism in classrooms

HB427: This bill ensures that all instructional materials and classroom instruction are consistent with the principles of inalienable rights, equal opportunity, and individual merit.

Opinion by ABC4 in favor: A new bill would change how teachers discuss racism and sexism in their classrooms. According to HB427, there are things that should be, and should not be addressed by teachers when it comes to racism, sexism, ageism, religious discrimination, and more.

Proposed veto letter by ACLU of Utah: We firmly believe that young people have the right to an inclusive, accurate, honest education, free from censorship or discrimination. Unfortunately, we fear HB427 may create more problems than it solves, especially addressing challenging topics such as race, gender, sexual orientation & systemic injustices.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 18-6-5 on Mar/2/23; passed House 53-18-4 on Mar/3/23; Speaker Brad Wilson voted YES; signed by Gov. Cox on Mar/15/23.

Source: ABC4 & ACLU on Utah legislative voting record: HB427 Mar 3, 2023

Caroline Gleich: Hateful rhetoric on immigrants, LGBTQ+ doesn't reflect Utah

Utahns are very disenchanted with the growing extremism of the Republican Party. I'm really struck by the warmth that we have and also the global awareness that we have as Utahns. We're a really warm, welcoming, and inclusive place, with a strong focus on family values, and when I think about the direction that the Republican Party is going, and when I think about the growing hateful rhetoric around immigrants and our LGBTQ plus community, it's just it's not reflective of who we are as Utahns."
Source: Townlift Park City News on 2024 Utah Senate race May 3, 2024

Trent Staggs: No taxpayer funding for gender transition services

Q: Taxpayer funds should be used to provide gender transition services?

A: Strongly Disagree.

Q: Children are the most vulnerable members of society and must be protected from abuse, including gender ideology, grooming, and bodily mutilation?

A: Strongly Agree.

Source: AFA iVoterGuide on 2024 Utah Senate race Jun 25, 2024

Trent Staggs: Disagrees with Critical Race Theory (CRT)

Q: EQUALITY: I agree with Critical Race Theory (CRT) which asserts that the institutions in the United States are fundamentally racist?

A: Strongly Disagree.

Q: Biological males should not be allowed to participate in women's sports or occupy biological women's spaces whether it be bathrooms, locker rooms, sorority houses, women's shelters, or prison?

A: Strongly Agree

Source: AFA iVoterGuide on 2024 Utah Senate race Jun 25, 2024

Kamala Harris: Trump's 50 Court of Appeals appointments: no Blacks

I've witnessed the appointments for lifetime appointments to the federal courts, district courts, courts of appeal, people who are purely ideological. And do you know that of the 50 people who President Trump appointed to the court of appeals for lifetime appointments, not one is black? This is what they've been doing. You want to talk about packing a court? Let's have that discussion.
Source: 2020 Vice-Presidential Debate in Utah Oct 7, 2020

Kamala Harris: Trump declining to condemn white supremacists is a pattern

The President took a debate stage in front of 70 million Americans and refused to condemn white supremacists. Then said, "Stand back, stand by." He called Mexicans rapists and criminals. He instituted a Muslim ban. In Charlottesville, where people were peacefully protesting, and on the other side, there were neo-Nazis. And Donald Trump said, "There were fine people on both sides."
Source: 2020 Vice-Presidential Debate in Utah Oct 7, 2020

John Curtis: As the mayor of Provo I prioritized inclusion and love

As the mayor of Provo, I prioritized inclusion and love, and sought to ensure my administration did everything possible to recognize the intrinsic value of all our citizens, including our LGBTQ community. I fought hard against discrimination and was grateful for my association with organizations like Provo Pride, Equality Utah, Encircle, and others who I was honored to stand with to ensure our policies in City Hall reflected the love in our hearts.
Source: Senate press release "Zero-Sum": 2024 Utah Senate race May 16, 2019

John Curtis: Opposed Equality Act for not protecting religious liberty

With the Equality Act, we face a unique challenge of balancing needed protections for the LGBTQ community with the importance of protecting religious liberty. I believe this compromise is possible because I've seen it before in my home state with something called the "Utah compromise," –historic legislation that effectively balanced the absolute rights of both LGBTQ individuals as human beings, and religious institutions protected by the first amendment.
Source: Senate press release "Zero-Sum": 2024 Utah Senate race May 16, 2019

Mike Kennedy: Restrict discussions on racism and sexism in classrooms

HB427: This bill ensures that all instructional materials and classroom instruction are consistent with the principles of inalienable rights, equal opportunity, and individual merit.

Opinion by ABC4 in favor:A new bill would change how teachers discuss racism and sexism in their classrooms. According to HB427, there are things that should be, and should not be addressed by teachers when it comes to racism, sexism, ageism, religious discrimination, and more.

Proposed veto letter by ACLU of Utah:We firmly believe that young people have the right to an inclusive, accurate, and honest education, free from censorship or discrimination. Unfortunately, we fear H.B.427 may create more problems than it solves, especially when addressing challenging topics such as race, gender, and sexual orientation.

Legislative Outcome:Passed Senate 18-6-5 on Mar/2/23; Kennedy sponsored & voted YES; passed House 53-18-4 on Mar/3/23; signed by Gov. Cox on Mar/15/23.

Source: ABC4 & ACLU on Utah legislative voting record: HB427 Mar 15, 2023

  • The above quotations are from State of Utah Politicians: Archives.
  • Click here for definitions & background information on Civil Rights.
  • Click here for other issues (main summary page).
2024 Presidential contenders on Civil Rights:
  Candidates for President & Vice-President:
V.P.Kamala Harris (D-CA)
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.(I-CA)
Chase Oliver(L-GA)
Dr.Jill Stein(D-MA)
Former Pres.Donald Trump(R-FL)
Sen.J.D.Vance(R-OH)
Gov.Tim Walz(D-MN)
Dr.Cornel West(I-NJ)

2024 presidential primary contenders:
Pres.Joe_Biden(D-DE)
N.D.Gov.Doug Burgum(R)
N.J.Gov.Chris_Christie(R)
Fla.Gov.Ron_DeSantis(R)
S.C.Gov.Nikki_Haley(R)
Ark.Gov.Asa_Hutchinson(R)
Former V.P.Mike Pence(R-IN)
U.S.Rep.Dean_Phillips(D-MN)
Vivek_Ramaswamy(R-OH)
S.C.Sen.Tim_Scott(R)
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