I appreciated Andrew Jenson’s Sept. 24 column, “America’s abandoned morals.” It was refreshing to see someone call abortion what it is: murder. As a fellow pro-lifer, however, I took exception with a couple of his points. He said, when [counseling] goes in the direction of abortion or contraception, it is completely wrong. Contraception prevents pregnancy. Abortion takes a life. Contraception is a personal choice. Abortion is a choice that kills a tiny, defenseless human being, making it a social issue and not just an issue between a woman and her doctor — as many pro-lifers claim. If we want to prevent the child abortions, we need to expand access to affordable contraception and services for women facing difficult circumstances. Jenson also said abortion occurs while the child is still a part of the mother’s body. That is a scientifically inaccurate statement. The unborn baby has his or her own DNA, blood type, body parts and gender. He or she is inside, but not a part of the mother’s body. Nonetheless, thank you Jenson, for speaking out for those who cannot speak for themselves.
–Cheyenne Smith-Sarkkinen, UI Alumnus