1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

I am writing to you with deep concern regarding HF583 and SF418, two bills that threaten the fundamental freedoms of Iowans. These proposals do not protect our state or our values—they erode them. Throughout history, stripping rights from one group, creed, or class has inevitably led to broader discrimination, emboldening attacks on others, and creating a culture where bias, violence, and oppression are tolerated. These bills open a door that America has fought to close. We must not go backward. If this blatant attack on the rights of citizens should pass, will we stand back? How will you defend against attacks on the group you belong to? Or will you just hope that you are considered one of the “real Americans”? These are the questions history demands we ask, and they cannot be ignored. I urge you to take a firm stand against these bills and make a public statement rejecting them for what they are—divisive, discriminatory, and wholly un-American. Our democracy is strongest when it defends the rights of all people, not when it singles out and marginalizes certain groups. Please use your position to protect Iowa’s values of freedom and equality. I urge you to vote against HF583 and SF418 and publicly condemn these bills before they do lasting damage to our communities. I look forward to your response and to seeing you stand on the right side of history.