The following student report was submitted by Ambassador League Agent Emily M. during the 2007-2008 League.
Letter to the Editor #5
Unfortunately, there is a small margin between the November election and my 18th birthday that will prevent me from voting. The most important issue, to me, beyond the presidential election, is the referendum to lift the restrictions on embryonic stem-cell research. I wish I could have a hand in voting it down; since I can't, I urge other Michiganders to vote against this referendum for the following reasons:
Embryonic stem cell research is already allowed in Michigan, but it can only be funded by private enterprise. This referendum will not lift restrictions on the research itself, but allow the government to use your tax dollars to fund it.
Contrary to media hype, embryonic stem cells show little hope. Many of the patients who have received experimental treatments have died as a direct result. On the other hand, adult stem cell research, which has received less funding and far less media attention, is currently being used to successfully treat seventy-two separate diseases.
The use of embryonic stem cells is morally questionable. Because an embryo is the first stage of life, its destruction is directly linked with the abortion debate. Adult stem cells carry no such moral implications.
Researchers are studying embryos in Michigan right now, and will continue to do so after the November election. The question is, the way Michigan's economy is right now, is it right for the government to take your hard-earned money and spend it on research that is morally questionable and that has thus far shown itself to be ineffective, if not dangerous?
