Dear [Your Elected Official],

As a Catholic constituent, I want to share my strong opposition to the proposed “Equal Rights Amendment” (ERA) to the state constitution. In its current form, it threatens to institutionalize discrimination against women and people of faith.

The current ERA language noticeably excludes protections based on their “creed” or “religion,” leaving people of faith vulnerable to religious discrimination.

If this amendment is placed in our Constitution, it could have far-reaching consequences. Protecting Minnesotans from religious discrimination is an important state interest, and this proposed language leaves people more susceptible to religious discrimination, especially in conflicts related to reproductive rights, gender identity, and sexual orientation.

If the ERA passes, people of all faiths will be less protected from anti-religious animus, including by government actors. Religious organizations might be compelled to act in ways contravening their deeply held beliefs. For example, ministries and congregations could be excluded in participation in public programs because they adhere to long-held understandings of human sexuality.

This erosion of rights will bring us further from equality for all. I urge you to ensure that “religion” is included in the proposed language of the ERA to guarantee true equality and protection for all citizens.

Please vote no. Thank you for your service.