This article was originally posted in Spanish.
This November, New York voters face a critical decision with Proposal 1—a ballot measure that threatens to erode women’s rights, safety, and opportunities. Although the proponents have framed it as an “Equal Rights Amendment,” Prop 1 would codify gender identity and expression in the state constitution, allowing males to access female-only spaces and participate in women’s sports. This measure would disproportionately harm women and girls, particularly Latinas, by diminishing access to safe spaces, fair competition, and scholarships.
Why Prop 1 Matters to Latinas
New York is home to 3.6 million Hispanic residents, making it the fourth-largest Hispanic population in the country. In New York City, 1.2 million Latinas represent nearly 29% of the female population. Prop 1 could roll back gains in the competitive world of sports and scholarships, as allowing biological males to compete in female sports would further limit access to opportunities for Latina athletes. Young Latinas, who already face socioeconomic and cultural barriers, would have fewer chances to compete, excel, and earn scholarships.
The proposal also compromises safety in gender-segregated spaces, reduces fair opportunities in education and sports, and undermines parental rights. These effects could disproportionately impact Latinas, adding new challenges for a community already working to overcome barriers to access and equality.
Safety, Privacy, and Parental Rights at Risk
Prop 1’s impact extends beyond sports into traditionally female-only spaces such as domestic violence shelters, women’s prisons, and locker rooms—areas where safety and privacy are paramount. Latinas are overrepresented among survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and rely on female-only shelters and services. Allowing males into these spaces could compromise the safety and well-being of vulnerable women.
Prop 1 also threatens parental rights by including “age” as a protected class. Schools could socially transition children without parental knowledge or consent, giving the state more power over decisions that should remain in families’ hands. For many Latino families, where cultural values emphasize the importance of family authority and involvement in raising children, this is a direct threat to their way of life.
A Deceptive Agenda
Prop 1’s supporters claim that the amendment is necessary to protect abortion rights—despite New York’s existing, comprehensive abortion protections. This misleading narrative aims to manipulate voters into supporting a dangerous measure under the guise of sex equality. In reality, Prop 1 prioritizes gender ideology over the rights and safety of women and families.
Latinas have an opportunity to stand up for fairness, safety, and family values by rejecting Prop 1. Protecting women’s spaces and sports is not about excluding anyone but about ensuring that women and girls—including Latinas—have a fair chance to compete, succeed, and thrive.
A Call to Action: Say No on Prop 1
Prop 1 is not about equality—it’s about prioritizing ideology over fairness and safety. New York already has robust anti-discrimination laws. Instead of enshrining gender identity in the constitution, lawmakers should focus on policies that protect opportunities for women, such as defining sex based on biology in state law, to ensure opportunities for women stay with women.
Latinas, with their growing influence in New York, have the chance to make their voices heard in this election. Saying no on Prop 1 is about ensuring fairness in sports, protecting the safety of women-only spaces, and preserving the rights of families to raise their children according to their values.
This November, let’s stand with Latina women and families. Say no on Prop 1 to protect the opportunities, safety, and dignity of women and girls—because fairness and equality should never be sacrificed for political agendas.