Good evening, everybody.
Tonight, we celebrate the historic Roe v. Wade decision handed down 40 years ago. But we also gather to recommit ourselves to the decision’s guiding principle: that women should be able to make their own choices about their bodies and their health care. We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to protecting a woman’s access to safe, affordable health care and her right to reproductive freedom, because we know that we are better off as a nation when women are treated fairly and equally in every aspect in life, whether it’s the salary you earn or the health decisions you make. This is a country where the success of all of us depends on the empowerment of each of us, where all Americans should have the freedom and opportunity to reach their potential. And I know that’s what you’re fighting for every day.
So, to everyone at NARAL Pro-Choice America, thank you for your tireless advocacy for the health and well-being of women and families. I’d especially like to thank your outgoing president, Nancy Keenan, who’s been a friend and counselor to me and my administration. And I welcome Ilyse Hogue, who we know will continue Nancy’s legacy of outstanding leadership of this organization. Finally, congratulations on your keynote speaker, Stephanie Cutter, an exceptional pick for pretty much any job, if I do say so myself.
I couldn’t be prouder of the work each of you is doing to make this world a fairer and more just place for all Americans. And I look forward to continuing that work with you in the years ahead.
It is one thing to acknowledge the work of the pro-choice groups that you support. It is quite another to say that you could not be prouder of those who market the death of abortion and who insist that the life of those not yet born has no stature, no standing, and no value -- either before the law or in the hearts of the people.
We have lied to ourselves as a nation and as a culture until the thing that once was thought best if it were safe but rare has become the proudest of moments and causes for the one who should be championing the cause of those who have no one to speak for them... Sad... Sad, indeed. Happy Valentine's Day!
1 comment:
Oh, but, in his SOTU address, he said the nation's greatest resource that we all need to protect are its children. Well, at least those fortunate to get past the "tireless advocacy for health and well-being of women."
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