Constitutional Am.: Gender-Neutral References

HJR 2 removes all masculine or feminine references from the Constitution of the State of Alaska. This resolution deletes "his," "him," and "himself" and replaces them with terms as "oneself," "Governor," "Governor-elect," "Lieutenant Governor," "Legislator," "members," "executive," "justice or judge," "voter," "person's," "auditor," and "accused." Other changes that occur make the sentences grammatically correct.

Some of our oldest and youngest states in the union such as New York and Hawaii have amended their constitutions to reflect gender neutrality. The framers of our constitution went to great lengths in the construction of the Constitution to recognize gender equality and it is in that spirit and as a continuation of their leadership that we seek to modify our constitution in recognition of the work done by both parties.

This resolution is before us now because it is time for us to recognize a significant moment in Alaska history, a time when we elected our first female Governor. The administration fully supports this effort.

I ask for your support.