Re: [Paddlewise] Safety in Recreational Kayaks

KiAyker_at_aol.com wrote:
> 
> dougl_at_islandnet.com writes:
> > Scott seems to take exception to folks who might restrict a
> > non-PFD wearer from comming on a trip with them, yet he claims to keep
> > personal choice in high regard. If he wishes to remain consistent, then
> > he ought to concede to those who would not want to paddle with the
> > non-PFD'er out of their personal choice.
> 
>    I just finished helping my daughter on a big school project about the
> civil rights movement. ... It is my right, according to the law, to not
> wear a pfd while paddling a sea kayak. For you to exclude me from your
> company based solely on the fact that I do not wish to wear one is not a
> matter of personal freedom any more then it is a matter of personal freedom
> to restrict black people to the back of the bus! Plain and simple, it's
> discrimination! 

Please allow me to be the first to say that this is errant bullshit. 

> If you really feel that it is so important for people to be
> wearing a pfd while kayaking, then change the law to reflect that. Good luck!
> But until you do, I am perfectly within my rights in every aspect to decline
> to wear my pfd on a noncommercial outing.

You certainly are. But it has been made clear that you are not welcome
on trips that include many of us here. Which is a pity all around,
because someone with your level of skill would doubtless be fun to
paddle with.
> 
> The good news is that I think I'm about done here. We don't need to beat this
> dead horse anymore :-)

No comment.
-- 
Steve (biting my tongue)
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