The Vaccination Debate

The Vaccination Debate

This image shows the minister from the Nation of Islam, Tony Muhammed, protesting against the implementation of SB 277 with many other concerned citizens. 

Image credit: Moons, Michelle. "Nation of Islam Joins Anti-Vaccine Bill Protest in Sacramento." breitbart.com. 9 June 2015. Web. 9 March 2016. 

Who/What: The citizens of California protested Senate Bill 277, which mandated "existing specified immunizations" in school aged children despite conflicts of interest with "personal beliefs" (California Legislative Information). As shown in the image above many enraged individuals, including representatives from the Nation of Islam, voiced their disapproval of the new senate bill (McGreevy). 

When/Where: The senate bill was officially passed in June of last year by California's current governor, Jerry Brown (Richardson). 

Why?: Many individuals are outraged by the idea of forced vaccinations, especially when the subject matter is so controversial at the moment. Some claim that vaccinations are dangerous, while others believe that they are necessary to keep American citizens safe from potentially fatal diseases. 

Proof of Identity: Despite being located in California, the message of this protest broadly speaks to American citizens who believe that their religious preferences and personal beliefs cannot be overruled by the government. There is general belief in the United States, that citizens may choose to deny or accept medical care despite the advice of health care professionals. As vaccinations are a form of medical care, one may assume that American citizens have the right to refuse them just as they can refuse to have their blood drawn. However, because the safety of other individuals is at risk, the California government has created a legal requirement of vaccinations. This protest fully captures the identity of American citizens who want the final say in their medical care. 

Works Cited: 

McGreevy, Patrick. "Nation of Islam Opposes California Vaccine Mandate Bill." The Los Angeles Times. 22 June 2015. Web. 9 March 2016. 

Moons, Michelle. "Nation of Islam Joins Anti-Vaccine Bill Protest in Sacramento." breitbart.com. 9 June 2015. Web. 9 March 2016.

Richardson, Dawn. "The Fallout from California SB277: What Happens Next?" National Vaccine Information Center. 5 August 2015. Web. 9 March 2016. 

"Senate Bill No. 277." California Legislative Information