Semantics for progressives (how to avoid getting side tracked)

[jody]

25. Understand but if words on paper do not create a right, how can words on paper destroy that

right?

It's accepted that the BOR does not create rights, it simply recognizes rights that preexist our Constitution.

PA and VT stated in their constitutions:
"That all men are born equally free and independent, and have certain natural, inherent and inalienable/unalienable rights, amongst which are, the enjoying and defending life and liberty, acquiring, possessing and protecting property, and pursuing and obtaining happiness and safety."

Inalienable/unalienable rights could not have been given away when PA and VT citizens ratified our Constitution and later the Bill of Rights.

For PA and VT citizens, our Constitution obligates government to protect rights that preexist our Constitution and those rights are natural, inherent, and inalienable/unalienenable at least in those states.