I’ve Gone 180 Degrees on the Flu Shot [PHIL-OSOPHY]

After hearing from many of you, I've reversed my point of view on government-mandated flu shots for all students. I still approve of the flu shot itself as a possible precaution against the flu, but I've flipped on the part of Gov. Charlie Baker's edict that forces parents to comply.

To the many listeners who shared their thoughts with me, thank you for persuading me that the overextending of government power infringes on one's personal liberties, even if its intent is altruistic.

There's a grassroots movement of about 11,000 Massachusetts residents called "Flu You Baker." Its founder, Vincent "Vinnie" Delaney, has become a regular on my morning radio show. Vinnie has filed a class-action suit against Gov Baker, essentially asserting that whatever the governor's reasoning is behind his command, no rationale can swap places with our constitutional rights.

In the meantime, there's going to be a rally in front of the Moakley Courthouse in Boston on October 5 at 1 p.m., when the federal court will decide on another suit Delaney filed concerning the unconstitutionality of the restrictions forced by the Baker Administration during the pandemic. Vinnie told me he lost his business as a direct result of the government-imposed shutdown.

Vinnie is an example of an everyday champion who has decided to put action behind his words. We need people like him in our society because most of us are preoccupied with struggling along. Vinnie's class-action lawsuit can be found at fluyoubaker.com and a GoFundMe page can also be found there.

And finally, opinions aren't permanent. It's totally okay to change your mind based on new information.

Phil Paleologos is the host of The Phil Paleologos Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact him at phil@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @PhilPaleologos. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.