The Nevada Sagebrush recently published a cover story on the difficult decisions faced by a Nevada graduate and a current student during unplanned pregnancies.
Ms. Wood chose to carry her baby to term while Ms. Thomas opted for an abortion.
Use kinder words toward a woman faced with the difficult decision to make during an unplanned pregnancy and you may get further than when antagonizing her. Photo courtesy of Flickr user peace chicken.
There have been a lot of insensitive and inappropriate comments made about the article, specifically toward Ms. Thomas who publicly spoke of her abortion.
As a feminist and a “pro-choicer,” I understand the other side’s argument and fully respect its opinions, but I cannot stand for upsetting comments aimed toward the women who tell their stories.
I recognize that many would typify Ms. Thomas as the stereotypical young woman who would get pregnant.
Ms. Thomas was publicly open about her sex life in her former blog for this website and currently writes a sex blog for the Sagebrush. She also has blogged and spoken to the Sagebrush about her job as a stripper.
Some may classify Ms. Thomas as a “slut” (though I do not believe in that word and will talk about that in a later blog), but remember that she is also a full-time college student, a passionate writer, a friend, a daughter and another woman who is faced with a very trying decision.
Whenever the topic of abortion is shown in the media, critics usually give a particularly harsh reaction to the woman. In the story featured in the Sagebrush, the father was not interviewed (by his own choice) and therefore did not provide his opinion on the issue. However, all the nasty comments so far (not only on the Sagebrush website but on third party sites) have targeted Ms. Thomas.
People are so easily poised to attack the woman when there is also a male in the situation.
In further defense of Ms. Thomas, while I feel this article was fine journalism (in that it presented the story objectively), I believe it was a telescopic view, only scratching the surface on the emotional and mental trials that the featured young women faced.
The continued harassment of women who have abortions only derails others who wish to share their stories. Allowing women to comfortably share their experiences will help bring a broader understanding of the taboo topic.
When a woman shares her story, she humanizes herself, rather than being another statistic.
The legality of abortion is under fire. Reproductive rights are being argued for even in today’s congress and local governments.
Abortion doctors have been murdered by anti-choice protesters. Abortion clinics have been vandalized and women like Ms. Thomas have been threatened and antagonized. We cannot continue to spew such hurtful rhetoric. If you disagree with abortion, peacefully and civilly take your concern up with the government.
Bottom line is, no one signs up for an abortion with an enthusiastic, “Yes please!” This decision is the most difficult decision a woman has to face, even if she, like Ms. Thomas has a preconceived decision.
For those who disagree with pro-choice, I sincerely hope you can be kinder in your words. Women like Ms. Thomas are already going through a difficult time before they’re attacked and ridiculed. If you passionately believe in your cause, I advise you to approach the situation with more understanding and compassion. Your words will not be taken into consideration if they’re spewed with distasteful venom.
“The continued harassment of women who have abortions only derails others who wish to share their stories.”
Thank you.