In his most recent column spouting his pro forced birth beliefs, Mr. Gitlin asked those of us who “spew” our support for a woman’s right to choose, “Other than your own, is human life sacred”? If Mr. Gitlin is referring to all human life, I bluntly answer no.
For example, those heinous murderers Mr. Gitlin so desperately tries to say we on the pro choice side have compassion for, a ridiculous claim, no their lives are not sacred and they should be eliminated. While I do believe life begins at conception, I do not believe that life in the developing stage should be given the same rights as the woman carrying the fetus. Especially if the pregnancy is unwanted and/or unplanned.
Two cases that Mr. Gitlin calls “frivolous,” espousing a misogynistic view favored by the forced birth crowd. My very personal abortion story differs greatly from Mr. Gitlin’s.
A situation in the mid 1970s that solidified my pro choice stand and the lady who I escorted to the clinic amid shouts of “baby killers” and threats of our being condemned to their imaginary Hell.
Behind all those facts and figures Mr. Gitlin accurately provided are many varied and difficult situations for the women involved. Most I believe, not “frivolous.” Decisions that the women made for their own mental and physical health.
There is certainly room for debate on when the developing child should be saved at all costs other than the mother’s life. But forcing a woman to birth a fetus and/or zygote that she doesn’t want, should be her choice only.
Rick McNamer
Smith River