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To the Editor,
For centuries, women hopelessly dreamed of having control of their own bodies. How is it that men have control over their bodies but women don't? We live under the same rules but don't have the same rights. How does that happen in a democracy?
Why would a woman, or child, want an abortion?
First, she is just a child, with a child's body. It's absolutely horrendous, unjustifiable, masochistic and tragic to force a child to have a baby.
Second, it is medically unsafe for a woman or child to deliver a child.
Third, a child fears bringing shame on her family and being disowned.
Fourth, a family member has impregnated her and she fears the complications and stigma of an incestuous pregnancy.
Fifth, she is raped and physically and emotionally scarred.
Sixth, the baby s not viable and a risk for the mother.
Seventh, the burdens of her life are too great for her shoulders.
Eighth, she has been a victim of domestic abuse.
Ninth, she wants a college degree and a career first.
Tenth, she does not have the financial ability to care for a child.
Eleventh, the father does not want the pregnancy and she lives in fear of being murdered (which is more common than you think.)
Twelfth, people make mistakes.
Thirteenth, most importantly, it is her body and her choice -- which should be her right -- to have control over her body.
Fourteenth, she has too many children already, and not enough food.
The right of women to control their bodies has been nullified by the rules of men. So, women turned to back-alley abortions, or lotions, potions and roots from the old woman in the woods.
As my mother once said, "Only rich girls get doctor abortions." So it was then, and so it will be tomorrow.
Do not force your opinions about the bodily rights of a woman. It is her body.
Abortion is a personal decision, and only God can judge, not you or I.
Vote for personal freedom, and vote for democracy.
Diana Kim Gagich
Wellsburg