(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Some Illinois parents and activists are pushing for an addition to the November general election ballot – a measure they say is crucial in protecting the state’s young people.
“Today is about raising awareness about parental rights, talking more about the issues and how we got to this point and encouraging the community to become more educated and empowered so they can become advocates for their own families,” Tracy Smodilla said.
She is manager of the Parents Matter Coalition’s “Right to Parent” ballot initiative.
Their goal is to collect 500,000 signatures for a referendum that would require parental consent for children under the age of 18 to receive certain medical care, such as gender modification or therapy.
“It’s really important for parents to understand that they do have rights that have been enshrined in the 14th Amendment of the constitution, and they certainly have the right to simply parent their children.”
Smodilla said many of those gathered at New Life Family Center Church were unaware of legislative changes in recent years that affect parental notification for abortion and other healthcare procedures.
“The groundswell of support for this initiative has been overwhelming,” she said.
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