Monday April 12, 2010
Governors Issue Proclamations Highlighting Trauma of Abortion
By Peter J. Smith
UNITED STATES, April 12, 2010 (LifeSiteNews.com) – The U.S. governors of Texas and Minnesota have both issued official proclamations that put the spotlight on the traumatic effects of abortion on individuals and families and the healing that is available, by declaring April “Abortion Recovery Awareness Month” – drawing praise from pro-life groups and ire from abortion advocates.
Texas Gov. Rick Perry and Gov. Tim Pawlenty of Minnesota noted in their declarations that abortion recovery services are fostering “a culture of life and hope” and playing a critical role in helping women, fathers, and their families cope with the after-effects of an abortion.
Abortion groups in Minnesota, however, told the Minnesota Independent that the governor’s declaration is nothing more than “pure” politics.” Linnea House of NARAL Pro-Choice Minnesota told the Independent that she hoped the declaration was “an April Fool’s joke” and said the proclamation was “nothing more than Gov. Pawlenty pandering to the anti-choice organizations in the state.”
Brian McClung, spokesman for Gov. Pawlenty, rejected the assertion, pointing out the governor’s strong consistent pro-life record, and his previous declaration of April as “Abortion Recovery Awareness Month” in 2009.
“Recovery programs can help individuals heal by providing counseling, support groups, encouragement, and education,” McClung told LifeSiteNews.com (LSN) in an e-mail interview. “While critics may say this is just ‘politics,’ women who have been helped by these programs would strongly disagree.”
McClung explained to LSN that the Minnesota chapter of Silent No More, an organization dedicated to giving a voice to women struggling with the pain from having an abortion, had requested the proclamations.
Texas Gov. Perry stated in his declaration that April is “a time to highlight and reflect on the traumatic effects of abortion,” a tragedy that encompasses not only the loss of the child’s life but also the “physical and psychological trauma” to the mother, and “often leads to lasting emotional and mental health problems for the mother, father and other involved family members.”
“At this time, I urge all Texans to learn about the lasting ramifications of abortion and the support and counseling options available after an abortion. Together, we can make a difference,” said Perry.
Both governors emphasized that abortion recovery programs serve to help individuals find healing after an abortion through individual counseling, support groups, mutual encouragement, and education.
“Abortion Recovery Month encourages and promotes healing opportunities and raises awareness of the aftermath of abortion experienced by individuals and families,” stated Minnesota’s Pawlenty.