Today's the 28th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision. Today Bush announced he will reinstate a ban on federal funds for international organizations that offer abortion and abortion counseling. Today confirmation hearings continue for John Ashcroft who presages an anti-choice agenda for the office of attorney general. On Friday during his Senate confirmation, Tommy Thompson, Bush's choice for secretary of health and human services, questioned the safety of RU-486 and strongly hinted he would initiate a review of the drug's recent FDA approval. (For a more complete list of Bush's anti-choice plan, see roevbush.com.)
Though the majority of Americans support a woman's right to choose, Bush asserts, and will continue to assert, his anti-choice beliefs. He will be naming justices to the Supreme Court should anyone retire during his term. The Attorney General appointed by Bush has the authority to enforce the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. This is a dangerous situation for anyone who believes a woman must have authority over what happens in her body. The organizations that educate women about their reproductive choices, who work to ensure that abortions are safe, affordable, and legal, need our support now more than ever. (For more facts about the issue, check out this NARAL fact sheet.)
I'd like to ask for you support. If you've enjoyed reading megnut and are interested in giving something in return, I hope that you will contribute a small amount to one of the following organizations supporting women's right to choose: National Organization for Women, Planned Parenthood, Planned Parenthood Global Partners (to support organizations who will be impacted by the ban on federal funds to international organizations), or the National Abortion and Reproductive Rights League. (link help thanks to rebecca blood!)