Thursday marks the 25th anniversary of Roe vs. Wade, the Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion in the U.S.
As a Presbyterian seminarian at the University of Chicago Divinity School, I know that many religious people support the right to choose. Contrary to those who purport that religious women and men are anti-choice, many share my conviction that abortion can be a morally responsible decision. Several clergy and even national denominations hold firm pro-faith, pro-family and pro-choice positions.
Before Roe, many women died or suffered terrible infections from illegal, unsafe abortions. But Roe did more than save women’s lives and health; it answered the question “Who decides?” by strongly affirming that our wives, sisters, daughters and friends–not politicians–should decide, based on their own religious and ethical convictions.
As a supporter of the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, I believe that “choice” now means more than just abortion. Prevention is the first moral choice. Sex education, family planning and contraception help people make responsible decisions and reduce the need for abortion.
Today, many still threaten the right to choose. Who best to make such decisions than a woman, in consultation with those she trusts? Let us continue to stand up and protect the right to choose that Roe guaranteed!
