The pro-life movement has been the subject of various controversies and misinformation over the years. These misconceptions range from accusations of racism to claims of violence and a disregard for women’s rights.
Are there grounds for any of these charges? What is the real truth behind the pro-life movement? Here are some of the most common accusations made against the pro-life movement, along with an honest examination of the real story.
Myth #1: Pro-Life Advocates Are Racists
One of the most significant accusations thrown at pro-life advocates is that they have racist motives. Some argue that after the overturn of Roe v. Wade, abortion restrictions disproportionately affect minority communities. Due to allegedly deliberate targeting, many minority women are deprived of the choice of abortion.
First, it’s important to note that the greater number of abortion clinics nationwide, including those run by Planned Parenthood, are located in minority neighborhoods. Second, statistics show that the abortion rate among African American women in the United States is nearly five times higher than that among caucasian women, despite African American women making up only 13 percent of the female population. So – is it really the pro-life or the pro-abortion community that seeks to target the lives of minorities?
Furthermore, we must acknowledge the troubling history of Margaret Sanger, the founder of Planned Parenthood, who expressed disturbing views such as referring to African Americans as “human weeds.” Previous Planned Parenthood director, Abby Johnson, states that she was pressured to aggressively market abortion in poor and minority neighborhoods because it was the most profitable for abortion clinics.
In contrast, Choices clinics stand by women, regardless of race, and walk with them throughout their journey. Our care extends to their well-being, their baby’s, and their future.
Myth #2: Pro-Life Advocates Don’t Care About Women
Another myth is that pro-life advocates are solely focused on limiting women’s choices, forcing them to have many babies, and keeping them from pursuing their goals. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Pro-life advocates do not seek to restrict women’s experiences or stifle their aspirations. Instead, they offer messages of hope, redemption, and support to women facing unplanned pregnancies. Pro-life organizations work tirelessly to empower women with alternatives to abortion, such as adoption and comprehensive parenting support.
By contrast, it’s crucial to consider the allegations against Planned Parenthood who is often hailed as a champion for women’s rights. These allegations include aiding and abetting sex traffickers, abusers, and others who perpetrate atrocities against women. Furthermore, according to former Planned Parenthood workers, women are often rushed through quick appointments, treated like cattle, and pressured to get an abortion – and only abortion.
Myth #3: Pro-Life Advocates Are Violent
One of the most sensationalized myths surrounding the pro-life movement is the accusation of violence. Media reports often suggest that abortion clinics face threats, violence, and harassment from pro-life advocates. However, reality paints a different picture.
Instances of violence against abortion clinics are indeed rare, and pro-life advocates overwhelmingly promote peaceful and non-violent means of expressing their views. In stark contrast, pro-life organizations and clinics have been targeted by acts of vandalism, arson, and violence.
In fact, “The bottom line is that after the Dobbs decision was leaked, there was over 22 times more violence directed against pro-life groups than pro-choice organizations,” said a study performed by the Crime Prevention Research Center (CPRC).
These acts of destruction were part of a pattern that included dozens of incidents, such as smashing windows at pro-life churches, pregnancy centers, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. Additionally, a series of destructive incidents unfolded, including vandals firebombing a pregnancy resource center run by Wisconsin Family Action in May. The Oregon Right to Life headquarters was targeted with arson on May 8. Agitators set fire to CompassCare’s pro-life women’s center in Buffalo on June 7, and many more.
This requires the question – which is actually the violent movement?
Choices: A Safe Place for Women
Choices clinics in AZ are known for creating a compassionate, non-judgmental haven in which women are helped on a daily basis.
“The doctor and nurse helped me, made me feel comforted, and addressed my concerns. Thank you.”
–Real Choices Client
If you need help and honest answers from advocates and medical staff who have your back, please visit Choices today or make an appointment with one of our caring professionals.
