Todd Comer’s opinion on Proposal 1 (“Proposal opens doors to students,” SN 10/2) makes some true statements. However, he fails to look at the overall effect of the proposal if it were to come into effect.

It may be impossible to fully “separate church and state.” It is better though to strive to do so which at least improves the situation. Also, atheism is most certainly not privileged in society. Religion is a private thing in public domain. Schools specifically have chosen to ignore the issue of religion in compliance with law. It does not promote not having religion.

Furthermore, even though people of all faiths will receive the vouchers, the effect is harmful overall. Public schools allow people of all faiths to go to school together. This allows people to understand other religions. People need diversity, or else discrimination will increase. People will not learn about other religions and cultures nearly as much. In fact, people may become more elitist within their own religion.

Also, Proposal 1 will severely hurt assimilation. In religions with similar culture, schools will only stress their own culture. Minorities will have difficulty reaping this country’s benefits if they are separated from a diverse culture.

Proposal 1 will also harm education as a whole. Minority religion schools will most likely be unable to provide students as quality an education as they were receiving while attending public school. The resources may not be as readily available as in the Christian schools. Student dropout rates will likely increase without a set attendance policy.

Economically, Proposal 1 will in reality hurt the poor and may not even save money at all. Transportation may be extremely difficult. For example, a Buddhist living in a smaller town may have to travel a long distance if the student would like to go to a Buddhist school. This may create a situation where the student will go to the local school just because it is more convenient. This would defeat the whole purpose of the proposal. Buses will cost a large amount of money and it is virtually impossible to bus everyone. Poorer families may also have their children drop out of school to help temporarily with making money, hurting the child’s future. The fact of the matter is this proposal specifically helps the rich.

Finally, vote “no” on Proposal 1. The proposal is very flawed and education as well as society will be hurt overall.

Ramsey Allie
no-preference freshman