There’s a vision for the world that I can readily see in mind that might bring some sort of conciliation between both sides of the abortion debate. This isn’t meant to be an indictment of pro-life as a whole and admittedly the abortion debate is also not an issue I’ve been particularly outspoken about in the past. This has been partly because of life experience and partly because I don’t feel comfortable speaking on it as a male who will never have to actually be pregnant.
The vision I see though, is taking the conception of value in human life and applying it across the board in how we shape our society as a whole. Critics will often label opponents of abortion rights and access as “pro-birth,” which I think when examining the public messaging, narrative, and policy options given can be well deserved. Instead of fighting over the extreme cases, why not advocate for policy that I think both progressives and the pro-life should be able to agree on (baring anarchist)? Take the value of importance of life and fulfill our obligations as a society before and past just the moment of birth.
We need to have a thorough system in place to provide support, money, and counselling to young and expectant mothers so they have their accessible and clear options ahead of them. Condoms and sex education should be universal so those resources don’t get overburdened and so young people can make informed health decisions and keep themselves safe when it comes to sex. There will be less unexpected or unsupported pregnancies where abortion will be an unfortunate necessity or option.
Our education system and social services need to be available and thorough for the sake of the child after birth. We live in one of the most prosperous places on Earth, with a standard of living beyond what people could imagine just a few generations ago. No child should go hungry; unfortunately many do. The value of the life saved will be affirmed and the support meaningful.
If there is a value in life it should be applied to those already living; better policing, better governance, better representation, protection, and support for the marginalized, better health care and treatment, better education, and a sustainable future for this planet so the lives to be born will have a world to be born into.
The point I’m trying to make is that if the issue was framed and approached on a bigger picture level, that if the goal was only answering “How do we make a world where there are less abortions necessary?” and not the morality and scientific mudfight of what constitutes life and what constitutes a good exception when it comes to the act itself, that our energy from both sides would be better spent driving to a common goal. If I missed the mark feel free to let me know.
