This year, the historic court case of Roe v. Wade turns 40 years old.
While I've mentioned in previous posts concerning polling and statistics, abortion does not seem to be a primary concern for as many citizens as it once was. Much of the nation is more worried about our national deficit, free healthcare, and employment rates. With the 40th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, however, I was wondering exactly who would notice and what kind of questions or concerns it would stir up.
I read an article this week regarding a bill that has been awaiting it's fate in South Dakota's State Senate. This bill, finally passed by South Dakota Legislation, brought into question the restrictions placed on a woman seeking an abortion. While reading about these recent endeavors supporting women's rights, I found it interesting that there are still any restrictions at all. I am not necessarily pro-life or pro-choice; in fact, I'm rather undecided on the issue... But when I think about the fact that the ruling of Roe v. Wade has yet to be overturned in 40 years, I find it interesting that some states are even allowed to place restrictions, such as a waiting period, on women who are seeking an abortion. Is this not still an invasion of women's rights? I understand the purpose of such restrictions, to force these women to really evaluate their choice before taking any drastic measures, but if they are seeking an abortion at a clinic and meeting with a doctor, isn't it possible that they have already made up their minds?
Republicans, to this day, stand pretty evenly divided on the issue of abortion and it remains, not surprisingly, a religiously involved controversy. Nearly half of all religiously affiliated and devoted citizens would vote to completely overturn Roe v. Wade.
In my opinion, Americans need to learn from the past. Roe v. Wade was a ruling that became historic due to it's controversy and radical effect on the issue of women's rights. Why would we move backwards by overturning it? And why are we so concerned with the particular restrictions on women seeking abortions. An abortion is a huge decision and often a difficult one at that. If it is going to be legal, why make it any harder than it already is for women who find themselves facing such difficult circumstances?
Sources: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/28/south-dakota-abortion_n_2785082.html
http://www.pewforum.org/Abortion/roe-v-wade-at-40.aspx
