Recently, the U.S. Army faced significant backlash for a presentation that labeled prominent pro-life organizations as terrorist groups. This controversial incident has sparked outrage and concern among pro-life advocates and raised serious questions about the Department of Defense’s stance on pro-life activism. At Choices Pregnancy Centers, we are monitoring the situation to keep you informed.
The Incident at Fort Liberty
Journalist Sam Shoemate brought this issue to light on social media, sharing details from a terrorism briefing held at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg). The briefing included a slide that placed several pro-life organizations alongside recognized terrorist groups such as ISIS. This alarming comparison has sent shockwaves through the pro-life community and beyond.
Shoemate highlighted that the organizations mentioned included National Right to Life and Operation Rescue, two major pro-life groups known for their peaceful advocacy. The briefing also referenced a license plate reading “IM4IT,” commonly used by pro-life supporters, implying that displaying such a plate could classify ordinary citizens as terrorists.
Reaction from Pro-Life Leaders
Pro-life Congressman Elise Stefanik was quick to condemn the presentation, describing it as an outrageous attempt by the Biden Administration’s Department of Defense to label peaceful pro-life advocates as terrorists. Stefanik called for immediate action, urging top political and military officials to investigate and condemn this incident.
“This is despicable,” Stefanik stated on social media. “@POTUS, @SecDef, and @SecArmy must immediately condemn and open an investigation into this vile and dangerous attempted indoctrination of our service members.”
Not the First Time
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Recently, a federally-funded database operated by the University of Maryland’s National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START) labeled Students for Life of America (SFLA) as a terrorist group. The database, known as Profiles of Individual Radicalization in the United States (PIRUS), tracks ideologically motivated criminal activity and extremists.
The inclusion of SFLA in this database has been met with fierce criticism. SFLA spokeswoman Kristi Hamrick denounced this labeling as a blatant attempt to smear the reputations of peaceful students exercising their First Amendment rights. “It is a highly offensive and highly suspect organization that can’t tell the difference between students with signs and actual terrorists threatening violence,” Hamrick told The Christian Post.
Protecting Free Speech and Advocacy
The pro-life community remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for the protection of unborn children and the support of mothers. Labeling peaceful pro-life organizations as terrorist groups is not only inaccurate but also a dangerous misrepresentation that undermines the legitimate and lawful efforts of these groups.
It is crucial for the Department of Defense and other governmental bodies to recognize the difference between peaceful advocacy and actual terrorism. Pro-life organizations operate within the bounds of the law, exercising their constitutional rights to free speech and peaceful assembly.
Compassionate Support at Choices
At Choices Pregnancy Centers, we are committed to serving and helping women in crises. Far from engaging in any activities that could be misconstrued as terrorist-related, we focus solely on providing compassionate support. Our services include comprehensive support, medical assistance, and a non-judgmental environment where women can seek help confidentially.
We never pressure anyone to take any action against their will. If you or someone you know is facing an unexpected pregnancy, know that at Choices, your dignity and rights are fully protected and supported. We are here to empower you with the resources and care you need during this challenging time. For more information, visit our website or make an appointment today.
