Jim and I marched on Washington DC in April 2004. It was one of the most inspiring experiences we've ever had. Imagine, spending the day with 1 MILLION like-minded people. People who care.
In answer to the question of why we marched, here are a few of the reasons:
1) President Bush’s first act as President was to reinstate the Global Gag Rule. This prevents U.S. foreign aid from funding any clinic that performs or talks to women about abortion. Estimated results: 2,000,000 more unwanted pregnancies, 800,000 more abortions, 4,700 more maternal deaths, 77,000 child deaths.
2) The Bush Administration has stopped all U.S. contributions ($34,000,000) to the United Nations family planning program.
3) Under the State Childrens Health Insurance Program, fetuses, but not pregnant women, are eligible for health care coverage. Not all prenatal care for the woman is included.
4) Over 350 laws restricting access to abortion have been passed by the states in the last decade. Fourteen states have introduced bills to completely outlaw abortion.
5) Congress passed, and the President signed a ban on all abortions after the first 12 weeks, without regard to the condition of the fetus (viable or not) or the health of the woman. Such an abortion is now a crime.
I'm glad we stood up for what we believe in, and hope that it makes a difference.
(Please VOTE against Bush!)