Should museums exempt children from vaccine mandates

A reader shares a letter they sent to Auckland Museum:

I am writing to express my concern around your recently released vaccination policy, specifically that those over 12 must be double vaccinated to attend the museum.

Whilst I understand the current environment is extremely challenging I am becoming increasingly concerned that the children of parents who dont wish or allow  them to be vaccinated  are going to be severely disadvantaged in terms of their education and social exclusion at a key developmental stage. Lack of access to an excellent facility such as the Auckland Museum been just one example.

I implore you to reconsider your stance and perhaps look to provide some nuance. Perhaps allow children under the age of 16 to attend on organized visits such as a school trip without proof of vaccination. 

I fear that our current path is going to have intergenerational consequences and restricting the educational opportunities of children is something we should avoid at all costs.

I do hope that at the very least you dont extend this policy to younger age groups if and when vaccination for those under 12  is approved.

I look forward to your response.

I think there is a case for vaccine mandates in some areas. But banning children from museums and libraries because of their vaccination status is wrong.