Copy of a letter sent to Delegate David Toscano in answer to the "poll of the day" asking for opinions on legislation that would authorize a "Choose Life" license plate in Virginia

David,

That the legislature must approve a plate saying "Choose Life" contains ipso facto the argument needed to oppose it. What else can a requirement for approval by the General Assembly be taken to mean except:

"The government of Virginia approves this message."

I'm in favor of any sentiment on license plates that a coterie of people will pay for, and I don't accept any state's right to censor message content.

Cordially,
Rey Barry, who once chose Life and now chooses Smithsonian

(Electronic mail, February 23, 2009)