To the Editor,
In light of the anticipated reversal of Roe v Wade, I write to urge that the State of Oregon continue the right of a woman to choose whether to carry a pregnancy to term, though I find the thought of abortion beyond painful. How can I, an ordained Christian minister, be anti-abortion and pro-choice at the same time?
I am a relatively wealthy, well-educated woman in a solid, supportive relationship with a man who loves our children. I have only been pregnant when I wanted to be. I had access to excellent prenatal care that assured us that our babies were viable. I easily dropped my caffeine and wine habits throughout my pregnancies. I have a large and loving extended family, and several of us are foster and adoptive parents.
I have never had an unwanted pregnancy due to forced sex or the failure of birth control. I have never been pregnant by an abuser. I was not pregnant during the times in my life I was flat broke and alone. I have never been held captive by addictions that would harm a fetus with lifelong ramifications. I have never been told my baby would not survive birth. I did not grow up in a violent household that I feared I would pass on. I have not had more children than I could handle. I was not pregnant before I was an adult.
I would not have an abortion. But my experience is not universal, and I would not tell another woman what she needs to do, especially in circumstances in which I have never lived. Abortions are tragic; choice is necessary.
And I support universal access to birth control.
- Lee Mathieu
