The Fundamental Debates Behind Limited Service Pregnancy Centers
by Glynnis Kirchmeier
A Final Word: My Bias
I am pro-choice. I believe that consensual sex between adults before marriage is not only morally acceptable, but a requirement for healthy relationships. I do not believe that sex is, to paraphrase my friend Chris Van Vechten, “something wrong and dirty and terrible that should be saved for someone you love, or at least your future spouse.” I reject the moral agenda of LSPCs, even while I support their right to think the things they do and their right to operate. Because I, too, am an American. I, too, believe in freedom of expression and religion.
However, I recognize that many, many women believe the same things that LSPCs do, and that they can bring comfort and support to these women. LSPCs are run by caring, sensitive women who probably really do care for their clients. I felt supported, and the image of God they gave to me was as a supportive one. The comfort this could provide women in difficult times is immeasurable.
And I will mention one outstanding, absolutely fabulous feature of LSPCs: their support for potential victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or rape. I was given many chances to disclose any sexual violence I may have received, the contact information for domestic violence organizations, and literature on what healthy vs. abusive relationships are like. If LSPCs can help women get out of violent situations, that alone is reason for their continued existence – as organizations following privacy law, with disclosure of their services, giving out real medical facts (if any).
Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/trec_lit/12959309/
