Today marks the 27th anniversary of one of the most important (not to mention divisive) judgments in American history. The confirmation that women, in fact, have the right to control their own bodies.
This is seen as an abomination by those who believe women are cattle, put on earth by a mystical, super-being to bear children in agony as punishment for seeking knowledge.
But today we should pause and pay tribute not only to those who fought to obtain this right, but to those who fight to keep it. I say "fight" not to be melodramatic. The radical right wing is willing to resort to violence and even murder to foist their beliefs upon us all. They claim they murder to save a life. But I find it hard to resolve with their "supposed" religion. They say they believe in "ten commandments" and they say they believe that when you die you go to a magical place where life is beautiful all the time. If so, shouldn't we be envious of the fetus (that they claim is a fully-"souled" human being) because instead of being brought, unwanted, into this harsh world, it will instead ascend directly to heaven? (Sounds sweet, why do they fear it so?)
In reality, they want us to follow their perception of a religion that they, themselves, do not fully accept.
What if they started believing that tumors had souls? What if they started hanging out at hospitals and murdering doctors who treat cancer? Sound far fetched? You should know that there ARE sects who believe that if you get sick, it's because "god" wants you sick. They would rather let their children die horrible, lingering deaths than have doctors treat them (say, didn't god create doctors too? Never mind, save that topic for another day).
If you let other people have control over the internal workings of your body guided by their religion instead of your own, how long will it be before some cancer-worshipping zealots show up with their picket signs?
You should also celebrate today by thinking about the elections that will take place this year. The right-wing has worked very hard to deny women their standing as equal human beings. If they take control of the Executive branch along with the Legislative branch they might have the power to attain their twisted goal. I recommend you make sure you're registered to vote and send campaign contributions to the pro-choice candidate of your choice. I know I have.
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