History, man. It’s all about those moments when people, groups, and communities have to make a choice: speak up or stay quiet. And guess what? Vermont is in the hot seat right now. Last month, over 23,000 Vermonters hit the streets to protest the national leadership that’s messing with our legal systems, social structures, and the very fabric of our small business community. They were loud and clear: no to fascism, no to autocracy, and definitely no to unchecked power.
Let’s talk about surveillance and data, folks. History tells us that when governments start snooping and hoarding personal info, bad things happen. Look at all those authoritarian regimes in the past — they loved collecting data to control and oppress people. And you know what? Big corporations are doing the same thing now, creating these huge digital profiles that can easily be misused. It’s like Europe saw this coming and said, “Nah, we’re not going down that road.” They came up with some strict privacy laws called the General Data Protection Regulation. Vermont, it’s your turn to step up and protect your people’s privacy.
But hold up, some Vermont trade groups aren’t feeling it. They’re against solid data privacy laws that our state rep, Monique Priestley, is pushing. They’re cozying up to Big Tech and other industry big shots, which is shady, to say the least. We’re talking about turning human beings into products here, folks. Not cool.
Experts are sounding the alarm, warning that surveillance and data collection could target vulnerable groups like immigrants, folks looking for abortion services, or those in need of gender-affirming health care. Even regular Joes like you and me could get burned if our data falls into the wrong hands. Scary stuff, right?
As small business owners in rural Vermont, we’re all about building an economy based on trust and respect for people’s privacy. Our customers deserve to know that their info is safe, used only when necessary, and shielded from exploitation. It’s not just the right thing to do — it’s essential for any business to thrive in the long run. Trust is the name of the game, and in today’s digital world, privacy is key to keeping that trust alive.
Vermont, you’ve got a history of leading the charge on important issues. You were the first state to kick slavery to the curb, pass marriage equality, and demand GMO labeling. Community values over corporate interests, right? So, it’s time to take on those big tech bullies who care more about profit than people’s dignity and community well-being.
Monique Priestley gets it. She’s been in the trenches, fighting for Vermont’s small businesses. She knows the struggles firsthand, and she’s not afraid to stand up for what’s right. Her bill on data privacy is all about protecting consumer rights that have been around since the ’60s. Trust us, those rights are under threat, and we can’t let them slip away.
Businesses, listen up. It’s not just about making money — it’s about doing the right thing. By backing strong privacy protections, you’re sending a clear message: people matter more than profits. Trust over exploitation, always.
Consumers, you’ve got power too. Ask questions, dig deep, and support businesses that have your back. Your dollars speak volumes, so use them wisely. Choose companies that respect your privacy and stand up for your rights.
This is our moment, Vermont. Let’s stand tall, speak out, and show the world where we stand. Let’s protect our neighbors, our customers, and our communities. Let’s be on the right side of history, today and every day.
