New laws move us backward in time

I am disgusted and extremely concerned about the direction our state government is going. Our governor just signed into law unnecessary measures that reduce and diminish rights, freedoms and the worth of persons. Banning books and not allowing discussion of any topic is a formula for creating fear, shame and increasing mental health problems in young people. That’s the opposite of what education is all about.

Education is about questioning and learning to be critical thinkers. This starts very young. There has to be some trust in parents and others who help them to make good judgments on what’s age appropriate for kids to learn and when. This should not be legislated! It’s interesting that the Republican Party used to be for limited government control and now it is taking over many aspects of our lives. It’s foolish to under estimate what younger children already know about and are exposed to from many sources.

Our governor is moving us backward in time to suppression, government overreach and extremism. This is reminiscent of dangerous trends in history that voters better pay attention to.

Voters of Iowa, beware, and remember you have the power to move this state away from such extremely conservative views and actions that are reducing freedoms right and left. Do not let this go on or we will surely regret it.

Tamara Taylor-Hillyer

Cedar Rapids