The 13th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution was ratified, abolishing slavery and involuntary servitude in the United States. With the exception to being used as a punishment for crime. The exception, which is a loophole is in play by 20 state's constitutions.
Alabama, Louisiana, Oregon, Tennessee, and Vermont will have on the ballots this midterm election to vote on amendments prohibiting slavery and involuntary servitude. In other words "legal slavery"; that is used in the prison system. Should voter's abolish the amendment this would be a big part in reforming the criminal system.
"We want to remove offensive language and provide protection for citizens from slavery and involuntary servitude,” Max Parthas, co-director of state operations of the Abolish Slavery National Network told PEW. Many feel that the exception clause should be removed from the U.S. Constitution period. Once states approve the removals maybe Congress will follow.
Louisiana State Rep. Alan Seabaugh, a Republican who opposed the measure, told PEW the effect would be “absolutely none, whatsoever. It’s essentially just symbolic. It says what’s already on the books — although potentially worse. The new amendment technically allows slavery,” Seabaugh said. “I don’t think anybody thought of it that way, but that’s what it says.” As reported by Newsone.
There is no way in 2022 there should be any exceptions to slavery rather a person commits a crime or not. Somehow this type of language is still finding it's way on amendments. Max Parthas told PEW, “We want to remove offensive language and provide protection for citizens from slavery and involuntary servitude." Max Parthas is the co-director of state operations of the Abolish Slavery National Network.
We need more advocates; like Max. That's why it is important to understand what you are voting for. Sates in the past like Oregon have faced lawsuits to up the wages of prison workers. These type of lawsuits have been dismissed.
Amendments, provisions or anything using language like "slavery or involuntary servitude" for symbolic reasons or reality should be unacceptable. Why are we hording laws that are supposed to be outdated as we have moved forward with the 14th Amendment. The equal protection clause; which is stating that each state has to protect it's citizens equally.
It's looking a bit suspect; but keep your eyes open and stay woke. Practice more love than hate for your brother so history want repeat itself. KNOW what You are voting for; it's your future!
Updates will be provided on voting outcome.
Photo: Getty Images