Thank you for articulating my feelings. I am terrified and furious about what our state has become. I didn’t realize I was grieving until I read your words.
At last week’s rally to support the LGBTQ community, someone had a sign that said “Iowa GOP Created the Great Flee of ‘23.” I thought back to a recent presentation by Dr. Peter Orazem, an economist from ISU, who said lack of available workforce is a primary driver of inflation and we can’t overcome it without welcoming policies. Our current politicians in leadership are dooming this state to difficult times in ways they should be smart enough to understand. I’m sorry for all the groups who feel targeted (and those of us who are allies, because we hurt, too) but also for all of us who see the hole being dug and are losing hope we can ever climb out.
My family is in the same situation. My daughter has been wanting to go to a state school like her grandparents did, like I did. But with all the anti-lgbtq+ bills, that dream is dead. Now, it’s a battle to find a school that is inclusive, has her chosen major, and a women’s soccer team. She doesn’t want to give any of it up and she shouldn’t have to. She, and others like her, shouldn’t have the added stress of making sure they go to a school that is safe for them or give up what they love so they will be safe. It breaks my heart.
My older son didn't even apply to any colleges in Iowa. I don't know whether my younger son will. I doubt either of them will plan to build a future in Iowa. Jews generally prefer not to live in Christian theocratic states.
Grieving for your daughter. I truly believe the voters need to get the power back to vote on issues because our legislature has proven they do not reflect values of the people. It is heartbreaking our taxes are paying for projects and laws we disapprove.
Well said, Jody….where did my Iowa go?
Thank you for articulating my feelings. I am terrified and furious about what our state has become. I didn’t realize I was grieving until I read your words.
Not my Iowa 😔. I won't change!
At last week’s rally to support the LGBTQ community, someone had a sign that said “Iowa GOP Created the Great Flee of ‘23.” I thought back to a recent presentation by Dr. Peter Orazem, an economist from ISU, who said lack of available workforce is a primary driver of inflation and we can’t overcome it without welcoming policies. Our current politicians in leadership are dooming this state to difficult times in ways they should be smart enough to understand. I’m sorry for all the groups who feel targeted (and those of us who are allies, because we hurt, too) but also for all of us who see the hole being dug and are losing hope we can ever climb out.
You put my feelings into words . Thank you
My family is in the same situation. My daughter has been wanting to go to a state school like her grandparents did, like I did. But with all the anti-lgbtq+ bills, that dream is dead. Now, it’s a battle to find a school that is inclusive, has her chosen major, and a women’s soccer team. She doesn’t want to give any of it up and she shouldn’t have to. She, and others like her, shouldn’t have the added stress of making sure they go to a school that is safe for them or give up what they love so they will be safe. It breaks my heart.
My older son didn't even apply to any colleges in Iowa. I don't know whether my younger son will. I doubt either of them will plan to build a future in Iowa. Jews generally prefer not to live in Christian theocratic states.
Grieving for your daughter. I truly believe the voters need to get the power back to vote on issues because our legislature has proven they do not reflect values of the people. It is heartbreaking our taxes are paying for projects and laws we disapprove.
If this keeps up, Iowa will be like a lot of Iowa small towns, empty. This just makes me sad, okay angry too!
Heart breaking.