The Abortion Issue

     Abortion has emerged as the biggest social and political issue in America. Though it has been a major topic of concern for decades, legislators are finally taking action. However, these actions have been controversial as they disagree with some Americans as well as past legislation. In 1973 the Supreme Court ruled excessive state regulation of abortion unconstitutional in the Roe v Wade case. It determined that criminalizing abortion violates women’s rights. Since then the court has upheld these unrestrictive policies. Pro-Choice advocates justify this unrestrictive perspective using the Fourteenth Amendment–though originally meant for the equal treatment of African Americans– which prohibits states from depriving ANY citizen’s life, liberty, and property. In short, past legislation has favored the rights of women to their bodies, and this includes the right to abortions.

     Today some states, such as Ohio, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Georgia, are moving to restrict abortions via “heartbeat bills” which prevent the abortion of a fetus whose heartbeat can be heard. In addition, Utah and Arkansas have voted to reduce abortions during the second trimester. On the other hand, states such as New York, Colorado, Virginia, and Kansas have introduced abortion protections such as ruling abortion restrictions unconstitutional. Politically, the abortion issue has divided the nation. It has proved to be more complex than a woman simply choosing to abort with her doctor in the southern state of Alabama where a law banning abortion  has been passed. The law makes abortion a criminal offense unless if the mother’s life is in serious danger. Contrary to popular belief, women who have abortions in Alabama once the law goes into effect will NOT be held responsible for the “crime.” However, doctors who perform the abortions of mothers not in danger can be charged with up to 99 years in prison which some doctors have disputed since they’d receive more punishment than the man who impregnates the woman.

     Depending on your stance, you may be shaking your head or nodding it right now. But despite anyone’s moral, religious, and personal beliefs, it is important to realize that Alabama’s law is not necessarily an attack on abortion; it is more of a way to bolster political power by attracting specific groups who oppose abortion–which, frankly, makes sense for the state as it leans conservative. From a political standpoint, this is a clever move. It will help conservatives in office get reelected because of their popularity. However, the question still remains whether or not withholding these rights from women is correct, even if it does aid a few people politically. Is Alabama’s new law abusing the rights of women for the purpose of political gain? Whatever your opinion, I encourage everyone reading to educate themselves on current issues and make a stand for what YOU believe in.