What Can I Do About Abortion?
Americans are beginning to realize that abortion is now legal at any time during a pregnancy, including the ninth month. In fact, many major cities in the U.S. are reporting more abortions than live births. Abortion has become a national tragedy and concerned citizens are asking, "What can I do?"
Know the Facts
Legal: On January 22, 1973, the United States Supreme Court ruled that it is now legal for a physician to kill a baby for social reasons at any time prior to birth, including the ninth month of pregnancy.
Medical: There are five types of abortion: suction aspiration, dilation and curretage/evacuation, prostaglandin, salt poisoning, and hysterotomy.
Discuss the Abortion Issue With Friends
Abortion promoters have been misleading people for many years. According to their rhetoric, abortion is merely the "removal of the products of conception." They believe abortion is necessary to prevent overpopulation, hold down welfare costs, prevent teenage pregnancy and eliminate birth defects.
Through personal contact pro-life people can educate their friends who are confused or undecided on the abortion question. Most people are unaware of the facts about abortion and would welcome information. There are endless opportunities for discussing the issue at club meetings, church services, and coffees. Be sure to give them educational literature.
Write Letters to the Editor
Most local newspapers, as well as radio and TV stations, allow people to voice their opinion concerning matters of public interest. Write a letter in response to a biased news story, misinformation, or for basic education. Don't forget national networks and major magazines.
Urge Your Legislators to Vote For Pro-Life Legislation
The only way to legally stop abortions is to amend the United States Constitution. Amending the Constitution is, therefore, the primary legislative goal of the pro-life movement. Another legislative objective is to ban the use of federal and state money to fund abortions.
If you do not know who your federal and state legislators are, ask community officials in charge of voter registration. After you find out, send him a letter asking his position on abortion. If pro-life legislation is pending, ask how he intends to vote.
Educate and Involve Your Minister
Religious leaders are in a good position to aid women with a problem pregnancy and help change public opinion on abortion. Don't assume that your minister knows a lot about the issue. In fact, the opposite is probably true.
Educate Your Doctor
Many people take it for granted that doctors know a great deal about abortion. This is not the case. In fact, most doctors are unaware of recent medical advances in the science of fetology.
A polite conversation while visiting his office would be informative. Most doctors do not do abortions but may refer patients with a problem pregnancy to an abortion clinic. Advising him of the alternative to abortion services in the community will help save many unborn children.
Boycott Upjohn Products
"Upjohn is the first major drug company that has abandoned the ethic of producing only drugs that will save lives and is now making one, the specific purpose of which is to kill. For this reason, many pro-life people have stopped using its products since they do not want to support such a company."
Help Women with an Unplanned Pregnancy
Women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy need your moral support, not criticism. They may need a job, continued education, mutual asset homes, medical and financial assistance. But most important of all, they need your understanding and willingness to listen. Refer them to your local crisis pregnancy center. Look in the yellow pages of your phone book under pregnancy or abortion.
Help Women Who Have Had An Abortion
The last thing the woman needs is criticism. She needs you to listen as she talks out her anxiety. You might be able to help her find professional counseling. Don't forget the father. Recent studies have shown that he undergoes considerable stress after his child is aborted.
Join A Local Right to Life Group
Most statewide right-to-life organizations have local units which are called chapters or affiliates. These groups educate about the value of human life and explain the dangers of abortion. Most groups also work to pass pro-life legislation.