Pro-Choice Messaging
February 09, 2009 4:24:05
by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund
Gloria Feldt, a former President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, and our very own, Sarah Stoesz, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota held a live discussion about Pro-choice messaging, and specifically the strategy in beating the '08 South Dakota Abortion Ban.
Here’s a few interesting tidbits on the issue of moral conflict and abortion:
AmieN: Do you think the pro-choice movement is afraid of keeping this idea of being morally conflicted about abortion as part of our strategy - whether political or messaging wise?
Sarah Stoesz: I wouldn't say afraid. I would say inexperienced with this idea. It's hard for all of us to let go of tried and true language that we've relied on for many years. But in point of fact, our refusal to acknowledge genuine moral ambiguity is not helpful and does not move the conversation forward.
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AmieN: Marcy Bloom asks, then, Hi, Sarah and Gloria. When you discuss moral clarity and conflict. ho you believe it is successful and "appealing "to use the concept of women as moral and ethical decision-makers? Does that resonate?
Gloria Feldt: I want to clarify something—appreciating moral ambiguity does not mean moral relativity, or that we don't have moral values/beliefs.
Gloria Feldt: Marcy, yes, emphatically.The secret of the anti-choice efforts' success has always been rooted in their moral clarity. That gives them a simple and authentic argument. We have that ability too. We shouldn't be flippant (eg, phrases like rosaries off our ovaries, Bush stay out of mine, etc). But elevate the debate to a higher moral plane of women's human rights, justice, moral agency. Then justify that position with stories, illustrations of healthy happy families, drawing the bigger map about childbearing choices that includes birth control, prevention, health, etc.
Sarah Stoesz: Good question, Marcy. I would say that is not an argument we would take to the voters of SD if we want to win these ballot campaigns.
Sarah Stoesz: Gloria, I think those are fine arguments in certain parts of the country but they do not work in places like South Dakota, and that is unfortunately where these battles are being fought.
It’s a fascinating discussion—you can read the entire transcript here.
Also, if you’re interested in learning more about how the South Dakota Abortion ban was defeated, you can listen to our 3 part podcast on the subject. Check that out HERE.
Trackback: http://www.plannedparenthoodadvocate.org/trackback/544/bK2LRpfG/
