On Wednesday, the Chicago City Council reversed its ruling of two years ago and again allowed foie gras to be served in the city.
The ban two years ago was argued for by animal rights advocates who said the process of creating the foie gras was inhumane. The vote to ban foie gras was passed 48-1.
Leaving the animal rights folk infuriated, the Council voted this time 37-6 to overturn the ban.
OK, truth be told, I’ve never eaten foie gras, at least that I know, so it’s not like I’m rushing to Chicago or dropping my boycott of Chicago restaurants. No, the reason I see hope in this story is based on the Alderman’s reason for bringing the vote,
“Supporters of this legislation have accomplished their goal by raising awareness of this issue,” Tunney said in a statement. “And while I respect their viewpoint, this is clearly a matter the council should stay out of and let the educated consumer and chefs make their own menu choices.”
Most elected officials are happy to opine and weigh in on any issue presented to them. It doesn’t seem to matter anymore whether the issue is even within their constitutional purview. In fact, Congress is known for taking on nearly any topic they want by simply swiping it with the “interstate commerce” pen.
When was the last time you heard an elected official say that an issue was none of their business?
How refreshing! There may be hope after all!
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