Equality for All
Back in the summer of 2013, my family moved to Bedford. We were greeted by a very welcoming community that quickly made Bedford feel like home. Despite my differences in heritage and culture, I was still treated equally. Now I'm running to represent the inclusive community that welcomed me so many years ago, to ensure that everybody is treated equally regardless of race, sexuality, beliefs, or anything else.
The Priorities
01
Sexual Assuault
Require college institutions to establish more comprehensive policies for dealing with sexual assault.
02
LGBT Protection
Defend protections in place for LGBT people, including protection from discrimination and harassment.
03
JUSTICE SySTEM
Shift the focus of the justice system from punishment to rehabilitation and treatment.
04
LEGAL PROCESS
Reduce fines and fees associated with the criminal legal process that disproportionately harm poor and minority defendants.
Policies in Depth
How can the justice system focus on rehabilitation?
In America, our justice has been long focused on the idea of punishment for people who do bad things. But studies have shown that this policy only results in more violence and recidivism. We can take steps to rethink our the justice system, shifting the emphasis to rehabilitation and treatment. This means expanding re-educational programs and therapy for addictions in prisons, making sure that prisoners can reintegrate into society after they are released. This can also save taxpayers money, as NH has the second highest cost per inmate nationally.
Why should fines and fees in the legal process be reduced?
Legal fines and fees associated with the criminal justice system creates an undue burden on the lower class. Not only have fines proven to be an insufficient source of government revenue, but they disproportionately affect minority groups and the economic burden continually harms defendants. The reduction or elimination of court-imposed fees would go a long way to ease the burden on lower class and minority groups.
How does NH protect LGBT peoples?
New Hampshire is currently one of the leading states in terms of protections and rights for LGBT people. The state has protections in place against workplace discrimination, hate crime, and conversion therapy, with regards to both sexuality and gender identity and expression. However, there are candidates in Bedford who have expressed willingness to do away with these protections. As part of the LGBT community, I will make sure that New Hampshire remains an inclusive and safe space for all.