There are many problematic statements in Nate Rushing’s article. First of all, he suggests criminally charging abortion clinics and doctors, who provide a much-needed service.
Such statements can only contribute to violence against clinic workers and doctors. If that isn’t the case, then he’s suggesting criminally charging about half of all women, which is the proportion of women who have abortions by age 45.
Next, there is no link between abortion and breast cancer. Those studies that suggest such a link are flawed. The National Cancer Institute elaborates on how that myth has since been discredited.
I would also like to address his time issue. Fewer than 2 percent of abortions take place past 21 weeks, and when they do, it’s because there is a proven risk to the woman or the fetus.
Also, if a fetus is legally made a person, you are only opening the door for more control over women and their bodies, carried out in a completely irrational way. Women are not incubators; we need fair reproductive rights and reproductive health care.
Abortion is a very safe medical procedure that should be a choice between a woman, her family and her doctor.
If Rushing was trying to reduce harm to children or decrease the number of abortions, his efforts should be applied in a different manner. Changing laws to take away womens’ rights and inserting personal morality is not the answer.
Editor's note: This article refers to this column.
