Letters to the editor for July 14

Weighing in on abortion

Thank you, Olympian, for paying attention to the abortion debate. In lieu of the abundance of abortion rights letters, it is my turn to address pro-life.

First, I have not yet read one abortion rights letter that defines pregnancy as a condition that harbors a human being. So, what characteristics do define a human being? Science names four:

1. The unborn person, whether embryonic or fetal, has a body whose DNA is distinct from the mother or father.
2. The growing body is guided by a complete genetic code (46 chromosomes)
3. The body grows by reproducing cells and will, at some point, respond to stimuli.
4. Humans can only beget other humans.

Secondly, the overall emphasis on abortion focuses on the convenience of the mother-to-be. One writer stated that “having and raising a child completely changes the lives of the parents.” Hmm. Also, “some children will undoubtedly be born into situations where they are not wanted or valued.” True. But “undoubtedly?”

Thirdly, even a completely healthy mother is referred to as facing “a health concern.” Please.

As for me, I am really happy that Steve Jobs, of the Apple Empire, had a mom who refused abortion. That actor Jack Nicholson’s birth mother also said no. Same with football hero Tim Tebow, and Nick Cannon, who hosts “America’s Got Talent.” Singer Celine Dion – the list goes on….

And all destined to have what one abortion rights reader called “disastrous consequences!”

Karen Strand, Lacey

The loss of autonomy

“I wish I had never been born” is a theme in suicide notes. This desperation can arise from growing up knowing that you are an additional burden on your struggling parent or parents.

Up to half of pregnancies in the United States are unintended, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These pregnancies have higher neonatal death rates, more miscarriages, and more negative maternal outcomes than planned pregnancies. Negative effects continue beyond delivery; children from unwanted pregnancies are less likely to be breastfed and have higher levels of illness and less parental involvement and social support in their lives.

But while people do indicate a desire not to have been born, they don’t say they wish they had never been conceived. Before leaving the womb, there is no concept of self, needs or desires. To be sure, there are fetal responses to positive and negative stimuli, but this is not the same as personhood. In the Bible, Genesis 2:7 says, “God breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.”

To force a woman to carry a pregnancy that is undesired is not a benevolent act. It is an act of cruelty, another opportunity to expand the marginalized, even if you don’t consider the additional factors of rape and incest. Republican big government even incentivizes neighbor against neighbor. They should stay out of our bedrooms and our doctor’s offices.

Autonomy over our bodies and privacy are rights that must be preserved in this post-Roe world.

Dave Little, Olympia

Doglio for state legislator

I am so glad former 22nd Legislative District State Rep. Beth Doglio is seeking once more to serve our community in the Legislature.

Beth has a long history of public service. Her many years as an environmental and social justice activist attest to her dedication and make her uniquely qualified to work with constituents and keep citizens engaged and involved in public life.

I got to know Beth through my volunteer work with the advocacy groups she led. Not only did Beth research issues and guide policy, she also worked the phone banks and walked the precincts along with the volunteers she recruited. She earned her stripes many times over.

Beth served two terms as a legislator (2017-2020), proving her effectiveness and gaining the requisite experience and confidence needed for this seriously fraught moment in history.

There have been times when the state Legislature may have been an appropriate proving ground for eager political newcomers. This is definitely NOT such a time. With the clock running out for climate action and threats to democracy looming large across the political landscape, we need an experienced leader to represent us.

Please join me in supporting Beth Doglio at the ballot box in the August primary and the November general election.

Peggy Bruton, Olympia