Just wanted to share some heartfelt words from an American expatriate in Nova Scotia:
"I have a need to write down my feelings about what I deem to be the most important election of my lifetime.
I see a vote for Romney as a total renunciation of all the work that has been done with respect to women in America, and thus by implication, to the rest of the women in the world. Women in America over the past 40 or so years have been able to make profoundly important decisions about their reproductive and sexual lives basically without impediment.
However, these personal decisions concerning birth control and termination of pregnancies are not made without much thought and consternation. On top of that, they have had to deal with the intimidation and misapprehensions of others who disapprove of their decisions.
People who allow their personal religious beliefs to overlap into the political realm, thereby defying freedom of choice, limit the rights of others to have their own beliefs and values. They are "religisizing" the issue.
Some may have fortunate circumstances, such as solid relationship status, financial security, and emotional well-being, but all are not so fortunate. Those in less fortunate circumstances tend to be dismissed, judged, and ridiculed by some of those more fortunate, especially so if the less fortunate do not accept their pregnancy, and after much legitimate reasoning with regard to their emotional, physical, mental and financial state, have decided to terminate the pregnancy. This decision has been made in consideration of their own health and well-being as well as for their loved ones.
Those members of our society who are more fortunate, or have no qualms about the viability of their pregnancy, haven't experienced the grueling decision making process which the less fortunate women go through. These less fortunate women have a right to their decision without being shamed, bullied or intimidated at this crucial time in their lives.
Most of us are not trying to sway others into NOT having a baby - so let's not sway others into having one when it is not healthy - emotionally, physically, or financially. Let's mind our own doorstep. Let's keep all that has been gained
with regard to reproductive freedom on the table."
-Sheila
