Proposition 1A

Supporters of Proposition 1A claim that it is an “Indian self-reliance” measure. Rather, it is the epitome of a “reliance on others” measure. Supporters would have the voters believe that passage of this measure will improve the quality of life for American Indians. The measure, they contend, will improve education and medical care for the Indians. But how, if at all, will this be accomplished? Through the gambling losses of Indians and non-Indians alike at the proposed legalized casinos to be built on Indian-owned land.

There is apparently very little organized opposition to this fraud. Proposition 1A will bring legalized gambling much closer than Las Vegas to the people, making it easier for working men and women to squander away their paychecks at table games and slot machines. That is not “self-reliance” at all. Rather, it is a form of regressive wealth distribution that should be opposed by every thinking Californian.

HOWARD L. EKERLING

Burbank