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See also: U.S. Supreme Court Decisions | Ohio Laws | Legal Status of Abortion Worldwide (ORTL web site) Since its inception in 1971, Right to Life of Greater Cincinnati has been a primary force for grassroots pro-life awareness and action in the Cincinnati area. Its members work to establish a life-affirming culture by organizing legislative efforts, encouraging pro-life candidates and office holders, and monitoring public and private entities' decisions and practices affecting human life issues. Decisions made by our elected officials and by the courts can be literally a matter of life and death for countless human beings. we are committed to protecting innocent human life through peaceful means, including actively working through the democratic process to support pro-life legislation and to oppose anti-life proposals. Using the links above, learn more about the important decisions affecting the protection of innocent human life by reading court decisions such as Roe vs. Wade, Doe vs. Bolton, Planned Parenthood vs. Casey and many more. In addition, find out about existing laws that affect pro-life concerns. Legislative action items and news are posted on this page. Check back regularly. Link here to contact your legislators: NEWS Tell U.S. Representative to OPPOSE HR 2410 June 3, 2009--Information source: Ohio Right to Life, http://www.ohiolife.org ACTION REQUESTED - Please immediately call your Representative to Congress and tell him or her to oppose H.R. 2410, the State Department Authorization Bill. The bill may be voted on by the U.S. House on Wednesday, June 10. H.R. 2410 would, among other things, create a new "Office for Global Women's Issues". The House Foreign Affairs Committee rejected an amendment that would have prevented the new office from attempting to undermine pro-life laws in other countries. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told the Committee in May that the Obama Administration would advocate for access to abortion in other countries. The offices of Ohio's Representatives to Congress can be contacted at the following numbers: Steve Austria (202) 225-4324 John Bocceri (202) 225-3876 John Boehner (202) 225-6205 Steve Driehaus (202) 225-2216 Marcia Fudge (202) 225-7032 Jim Jordan (202) 225-2676 Marcy Kaptur (202) 225-4146 Dennis Kucinich (202) 225-5871 Steve LaTourette (202) 225-5731 or (800) 447-0529 Bob Latta (202) 225-6405 or (800) 541-6446 Mary Jo Kilroy (202) 225-2015 Tim Ryan (202) 225-5261 Jean Schmidt (202) 225-3164 or (800) 784-6366 Zach Space (202) 225-6265 or (866) 910-7577 Betty Sutton (202) 225-3401 Pat Tiberi (202) 225-5355 Mike Turner (202) 225-6465 Charles Wilson (202) 225-5705 You can find your Representative to Congress by entering your zip code at http://www.capwiz.com/nrlc/home/ .
Ohio House Passes Umbilical Cord Blood Bill June 3, 2009--THANK YOU to Ohio Right to Life, Rep. Todd Book, and all involved in getting this positive legislation passed through the Ohio House of Representatives. [information source: Ohio Right to Life, http://www.ohiolife.org] On Wednesday, June 3, 2009, the Ohio House of Representatives passed H.B. 102 by a vote of 97 to 0. H.B. 102, which is sponsored by Rep. Todd Book, would require the Ohio Department of Health to place printable materials on its website with information on umbilical cord blood banking and donation. The Department of Health would encourage health care professionals to provide the materials to pregnant women. Umbilical cord blood is an excellent and ethical source of stem cells that can be obtained with no risk to the mother or child. Stem cells derived from umbilical cord blood have been used to successfully treat over 70 diseases including sickle cell anemia, leukemia, and lymphoma. Unfortunately, most umbilical cord blood is currently being discarded after birth. Cord blood is often matched by racial and ethnic background and many patients who are most in need of a transplant cannot find a suitable match. A March 2007 Detroit News article indicated that, at that time, about 50% of whites found the cord blood matches they needed, while only 18% of African-Americans did. Although banking cord blood for personal or family use with a private bank can involve significant expense, donations to public cord blood banks involve no expense for the donor. "We are pleased that the Ohio House has seen the wisdom of this life-saving legislation," said Mike Gonidakis, Executive Director of Ohio Right to Life. "By increasing public awareness of cord blood donation, this bill should increase the number and diversity of cord blood donations and thus increase the number of patients who can obtain the match they need," Gonidakis said. The bill now goes to the Ohio Senate. Reminder - CROSS THE BRIDGE FOR LIFE THIS SUNDAY! June 2, 2009--Protections for innocent human life are under attack and good people must stand in peaceful, prayerful witness for those who cannot speak for themselves. Join thousands of people at the World Peace Bell, Newport, KY, THIS Sunday, June 7th, 2-4pm for the 4th annual Cross the Bridge for Life across the Purple People Bridge, sponsored by over 20 pro-life organizations. Meet at the bell at 421 Monmouth St. for a brief program at 1:45pm including Brian Patrick, host Son Rise Morning Show, Sacred Heart Radio/EWTN; Rev. Arnold Culbreath, Protecting Black Life; and Archdiocese of Cincinnati Coadjuter Archbishop Dennis Schnurr. Little Samantha Carlson, representing our Down Syndrome friends, will ring the World Peace Bell, and the event will end back at the bell with a free picnic from JTM Food Group and music by the Lee Roessler Band. For full information, see http://www.crossthebridgeforlife.com Contacts:
Fr. Pavone Statement on Tiller Murder June 1, 2009--Thank you to Father Frank Pavone, National Director Priests for Life, for his reasoned and compassionate statement on the death of George Tiller, and with which Right to Life of Greater Cincinnati stands in agreement: Fr. Pavone on Tiller Killing Contact: Margaret, Priests for Life, 908-432-7387 STATEN ISLAND, New York, May 31 /Christian Newswire/ -- Fr. Frank Pavone, National Director of Priests for Life, issued the following statement upon hearing this morning of the killing of abortionist George Tiller: "I am saddened to hear of the killing of George Tiller this morning. At this point, we do not know the motives of this act, or who is behind it, whether an angry post-abortive man or woman, or a misguided activist, or an enemy within the abortion industry, or a political enemy frustrated with the way Tiller has escaped prosecution. We should not jump to conclusions or rush to judgment." "But whatever the motives, we at Priests for Life continue to insist on a culture in which violence is never seen as the solution to any problem. Every life has to be protected, without regard to their age or views or actions." Priests for Life is the nation's largest Catholic pro-life organization dedicated to ending abortion and euthanasia. For more information, visit http://www.priestsforlife.org. ORTL Information on Supreme Court Nominee May 27, 2009--See the following useful information researched and provided by Ohio Right to Life on Barack Obama's recent appointment to the Supreme Court, Judge Sonia Sotomayor. Judge Sonia Sotomayor - Supreme Court Nominee Judge Sonia Sotomayor of the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals is President Obama's selection to replace retiring Justice David Souter on the U.S. Supreme Court. Although Ohio Right to Life and other groups will be more thoroughly examining Judge Sotomayor's record in the coming days and weeks, we wanted to provide this initial review of some of her legal opinions for our membership. In her career, Judge Sotomayor has never had to decide a case which challenged the constitutionality of any law regulating abortion. She has been involved in two cases that related to abortion in other contexts. Center for Reproductive Law and Policy v. Bush, 304 F. 3rd 183 (2nd Cir., 2002) - Sotomayor wrote an opinion in which the court upheld President George W. Bush's Mexico City Policy. The policy prohibited foreign non-governmental groups from promoting abortion overseas if they receive federal foreign aid funds. Although the Center for Reproductive Law and Policy was a domestic group that was not covered by the Mexico City Policy, CRLP and some of its employees argued that their First Amendment rights of speech and association were violated by the policy because they could not work with foreign groups to change abortion laws in other countries. Because a 1990 2nd Circuit decision had rejected a similar claim by Planned Parenthood, Sotomayor rejected the claim of a First Amendment violation. Sotomayor also rejected an equal protection claim by CRLP. She held that the law had a rational basis and that the Supreme Court had expressly held "that the government is free to favor the anti-abortion position over the pro-choice position, and can do so with public funds." Because federal appeals court judges have an obligation to follow precedents of the U.S. Supreme Court and their own court, the case does not tell us definitively how Sotomayor would have ruled on similar issues if she was on the Supreme Court. Amnesty America v. West Hartford, No. 01-7686 (2nd Cir., April 17, 2002) - Sotomayor wrote an opinion which reinstated a claim brought by pro-life abortion protestors. The opinion turned on technicalities. It held that the district court may not grant summary judgment on the ground that motion papers did not contain "record citations" unless the party had been previously put on notice, through a local rule or otherwise, that such citations are required. Thus, although the case involved pro-life protestors, its reasoning should have applied to any parties in the same position. Non-Abortion Cases - Sotomayor has been criticized for being an activist judge. In a 2005 panel discussion at Duke University Law School, she said that the "Court of Appeals is where policy is made". Some of her rulings have been controversial. Maloney v. Cuomo, 554 F.3d 56 (2nd Cir., 2009) - In a legal challenge to a New York law that prohibited possession of "nunchaku" (martial arts sticks joined by a chain or rope),Sotomayor joined a panel that upheld the law on the grounds that the Second Amendment right to bear arms did not apply to the states. Hayden v. Pataki, 449 F.3d 305 (2d Cir. 2006) - Sotomayer dissented from a ruling upholding a New York law that prohibited convicted felons from voting. She said that the law violated the federal Voting Rights Act because it "disqualifies a group of people from voting". Judge Sotomayor's Biographical Information on the U.S. 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals website can be found at http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/Judgesbio.htm#SS. Barack Obama Appoints New Supreme Court Justice May 26, 2009--Barack Obama has nominated appeals court judge Sonia Sotomayor, 54, to be the first Hispanic justice on the Supreme Court. It had been predicted that a woman and a minority representative would be chosen. If the Senate confirms the nomination, Sotomayor will replace retiring Justice David Souter. Senate confirmation is expected in July, so that she can take her seat in the court's next term in October. Sotomayor comes from a poor Puerto Rican family in the Bronx in New York. She is Princeton and Yale educated, and has been a federal judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit since 1998. She has been nominated in the past by both Democrat and Republican presidents. Bill Clinton nominated Sotomayor for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit in 1997. George H. W. Bush nominated her as a federal judge in 1991. Information is still coming regarding this appointment, but in the one abortion-related case Sotomayor ruled on as a court of appeals judge, she ruled against the pro-abortion advocates. [Further information] Oppose Destructive Embryonic Stem Cell Research May 12, 2009--March 9th, Barack Obama overturned through Executive Order restrictions on federal funding (our tax dollars) for embryonic stem cell research. Under President Bush, such research was restricted to stem cell lines pulled from already destroyed embryos, with no more to be killed. Overturning these restrictions means that that the federal government will now fund human embryonic stem cell experimentation through the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Barack Obama left it up to the NIH to define its own research guidelines - now posted in draft form. The guidelines permit pulling stem cells from embryonic human beings "left over" from in vitro fertilization, after which they die. It also proposes that parents of children conceived through in vitro fertilization be given the choice to donate embryonic children for destructive research along with other options, including letting their children live. It is anticipated that this could lead to a "create to kill" policy of breeding human embryos specifically for experimentation then destruction for additional technologies such as cloning. ACTION: Citizens may respond to the NIH proposal through May 26th using an online form.
Also contact members of Congress to encourage their opposition: Cross the Bridge for Life 2009 Thousands to Cross Purple People Bridge for Life May 4, 2009--Now more than ever a voice for the voiceless must be raised. Join thousands of people Sunday, June 7th, 2-4 pm for the 4th annual Cross the Bridge for Life across the Purple People Bridge to raise awareness for the sanctity of human life. A coalition of over 20 area pro-life organizations organizes this celebration for life--born and unborn. Meet at the bell at 421 Monmouth St. for a brief program including Brian Patrick, host Son Rise Morning Show, 740AM Sacred Heart Radio/EWTN; Rev. Arnold Culbreath, Protecting Black Life; and Archdiocese of Cincinnati Coadjuter Archbishop Dennis Schnurr. Little Samantha Carlson, representing our Down Syndrome friends, will ring the World Peace Bell. Due to generous sponsors, the event and all included is free, including event t-shirts (appreciated donation $5.00 each). The event will end back at the World Peace Bell with a picnic by JTM Food Group, and music featuring The Lee Roessler Band. All are welcome to participate in Cross the Bridge for Life--a day of family fun and powerful prayer. This is a positive, dedicated time to remember those who have lost their lives to abortion, are grieving such a loss, and for the hearts and minds of those currently involved in abortions. See www.crossthebridgeforlife.com Contacts:
Life Issues with John C. Willke, M.D. April 28, 2009--Good Shepherd parish is pleased to welcome John C. Willke, M.D. Thursday, April 30 at 7:00 pm in the Community Room. Dr. Willke is a physician, author, lecturer, TV and radio personality, and expert on human sexuality. He will speak about the many life issues of our time and answer questions. Dr. Willke is the president of the nationwide, educational Life Issues Institute. He served for ten years as president of the U.S. National Right to Life Committee. He helped found the International Right to Life Federation in 1984 and remains its president. His daily 5-minute radio program was carried on over 300 radio stations for 18 years until recently. His one-minute comments, Life Jewels, were on over 1,000 stations in English and Spanish, with 50 in Australia, and 30 in South Africa and many stations in Brazil. All are welcome to hear from this expert Thursday, April 30th at 7:00pm at Good Shepherd, located close to the corner of Montgomery and Kemper Roads in the Montgomery/Symmes Township area.
BREAKING NEWS: FDA to Let 17-Year Olds Purchase Morning After Pill Without a Prescription April 22, 2009--News has just been released that the The FDA will soon announce that it is complying with a federal judge's order to overturn a Bush adminstration policy and permit 16-year-olds to obtain the "Morning After Pill" (Plan B) birth control pill without a prescription. The FDA will later evaluate whether all age restrictions will be lifted. NOTE: A girl under 18 cannot even get her ears pierced without a parent or guardian present and signing a release, yet she can obtain this megadose of hormones that sometimes acts as an abortifacient with no parental or physician supervision. See FOX News coverage at this point.
Prevention First Bad Law April 21, 2009--[Ohio Right to Life] On April 22nd, Planned Parenthood and others will hold its lobby day at the Ohio Statehouse in support of the so-called "Prevention First Act". Planned Parenthood characterizes this legislation as an effort to prevent unintended pregnancies. In fact, the only thing it will prevent is the exercise of freedom of conscience. On April 20th, Ohio Right to Life and its affiliated chapters, from Cincinnati to Cleveland, delivered "truth packets" to the members of the Ohio General Assembly providing the facts about Planned Parenthood, the Prevention First Act and the importance of protecting freedom of conscience for health care professionals. The "Prevention First Act", as introduced in the 127th General Assembly, centered on forcing the provision of the "morning-after after pill", which is sometimes misleadingly referred to as "emergency contraception". Although proponents claim requiring the provision of "emergency contraception" will decrease unintended pregnancies and abortions, a January 2007 Obstetrics & Gynecology study by leading proponents of the drug found that increased access to "emergency contraception" had not reduced the rates of abortion or unintended pregnancy. The Prevention First Act would force pro-life pharmacists and religious hospitals to provide "emergency contraception" despite religious or moral objections. This would require persons who took and adhere to the original Hippocratic Oath to violate its requirement that "I will not give to a woman an abortive remedy". Further Information Prevention First Act:
This is an agenda harmful to Ohio's children. Ohio pro-life, pro-family, abstinence and chastity organization have joined together in opposition.
We are NOT Terrorists April 15, 2009--A new Barack Obama administration Homeland Security report states that those of us who oppose the holocaust of abortion are "hate oriented" with the implication that we are terrorists. Read the report (offensive phrases highlighted). Note this footnote: "Rightwing extremism in the United States can be broadly divided into those groups, movements, and adherents that are primarily hate-oriented (based on hatred of particular religious, racial or ethnic groups), and those that are mainly antigovernment, rejecting federal authority in favor of state or local authority, or rejecting government authority entirely. It may include groups and individuals that are dedicated to a single issue, such as opposition to abortion or immigration." This is a fear pressure attempt to silence free speech and stifle good work to help women and save unborn babies from death. ACTION: As so aptly suggested by Cleveland Right to Life, contact your U.S. Representatives and demand that this wording be removed from the Homeland Security document.
2009 5K Run/Walk for Life & Family Fun Run Title Sponsor: Good Samaritan Hospital April 14, 2009--Men, women and children of all ages are invited to enjoy Right to Life of Greater Cincinnati's 27th annual 5K Run/Walk for Life and Family Fun Walk, Saturday, May 9, 2009, 8:30 a.m. at Winton Woods - Harper Meadows' Owl Overlook, Cincinnati. Activities This family-oriented event includes a certified 5K Run and 5K Walk, and a 1-Mile Family Fun Walk. Arrive early for check-in and registration before events begin! After the 5K Run and both walks, picnic refreshments, awards, door prizes, and entertainment will be available for all, compliments of generous sponsors. Registration Register today! - online, by mail, or by phone. Pre-registration deadline is Friday, May 1st (postmarked) and May 6th (online); individual and family registrations also accepted race day. Individual registration - $25 including t-shirt --race day registrations add an additional $10. Family registration - $45 per family of three or more including one t-shirt with additional shirts available for sale--race day registrations add an additional $10. Teams of three or more can receive a special group rate of $15 per participant, if all team members' pre-registration forms and fees are mailed together by deadline Friday May 1st (postmarked). No t-shirts are provided with this special discount, and no team registrations are accepted race day. See www.5krun4life.org for complete information.
Umbilical Cord Blood Bill Introduced April 3, 2009--State Representative Todd Book recently introduced a bill to promote umbilical cord blood donation (H.B. 102), which requires the Ohio Department of Health to provide information via its web site containing information on umbilical cord blood banking and donation. The Department of Health would encourage health care professionals to provide the materials to pregnant women as well. Umbilical cord blood is an excellent and ethical source of stem cells that can be obtained with no risk to the mother or child. Stem cells derived from umbilical cord blood have been used to successfully treat over 70 diseases including sickle cell anemia, leukemia, and lymphoma. Unfortunately, most umbilical cord blood is currently being discarded after birth. This is especially tragic because cord blood is often matched by racial and ethnic background and many patients who are most in need of a transplant cannot find a suitable match. H.B. 102 enjoys strong bipartisan support as outlined by the bills following Co-Sponsors: Dan Dodd; Brian Williams; Marian Harris; Kenny Yuko; John Adams; Jeff Wagner; Randy Gardner; Sandra Harwood; Matt Huffman; Robert Mecklenborg; Peggy Lehner; Mark Okey; Tim DeGeeter; Scott Oelslager; Tim Derickson; Kris Jordan; Lynn Wachtmann; Ron Amstutz; John Domenick; and Jennifer Garrison. Further information: Cord donation - National Marrow Donor Program (which has several public cord blood banks affiliated with it)
40 Days for Life - Final Days' Events April 2, 2009--The spring 40 Days for Life campaign ends Palm Sunday April 5th. The prayers of so many for the protection of innocent human life are a tremendous blessing. Events: Final candlelight vigil tomorrow, Friday, April 3rd, 6:30-9 pm at Planned Parenthood's abortion headquarters 2314 Auburn Ave., Cincinnati. Archdiocese of Cincinnati's Coadjuter Archbishop Rev. Dennis Schnurr, will join participants at 6:30 pm to lead the Rosary and encourage the effort. Parking is available at nearby Holy Name Church, 2448 Auburn Ave. Joint closing celebration with Way of Love participants at Burnet Woods bandstand, 3:30 pm. 40 Days for Life participants are encouraged to be part of last Way of Love Walk 2-4 pm, ending with celebration. Planned 24 hour coverage of Planned Parenthood April 5th till midnight. Please sign up for a time during this closing vigil (see below). Participants: Besides individuals and friends, the known list of current and anticipated participating churches/organizations throughout this campaign includes representatives from:
For information, see www.40daysforlife.com/Cincinnati, or contact Mary Clark, Greater Cincinnati chair, 513/791-4039, clarkre@fuse.net.
40 Days for Life - Week 5 March 27, 2009--At Day 31, 40 Days for Life reports that 271 babies across the nation are known to be saved through prayer vigils. Please join in the Friday candlelight vigil tonight, 7-9 p.m. at Planned Parenthood's abortion headquarters, 2314 Auburn Ave., Cincinnati, 45219 Next Friday, April 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Archdiocese of Cincinnati's Coadjuter Archbishop Rev. Dennis Schnurr, will join participants to lead the Rosary and encourage the effort. This will be the last candlelight vigil for this 40 Days for Life campaign. Participants: It's still not too late to join in! Besides individuals and friends, the participants now include tri-state representatives from:
For information, see www.40daysforlife.com/Cincinnati, or contact Mary Clark, Greater Cincinnati chair, 513/791-4039, clarkre@fuse.net.
40 Days for Life - Week 4 March 20, 2009--40 Days for Life continues in Cincinnati and in over 130 communities through April 5. Besides in the U.S., cities in Canada, Australia, and Northern Ireland are participating. Events: Candlelight vigil tonight, and every Friday through April 3, 7-9 p.m. at Planned Parenthood's abortion headquarters on Auburn Ave. Friday, April 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Archdiocese of Cincinnati's Coadjuter Archbishop Rev. Dennis Schnurr, will join participants to lead the Rosary and encourage the effort. Participants: The list of participants continues to grow - join anytime! Besides individuals and friends, the participants' list now includes tri-state representatives from:
For information see www.40daysforlife.com/Cincinnati, or contact Mary Clark, Greater Cincinnati chair, 513/791-4039, clarkre@fuse.net.
Ohio Resolution Opposing FOCA March 19, 2009--State Senators Tim Grendell and Steve Buehrer have introduced a resolution in the Ohio Senate, and a large group of Representatives have done in the same in the House, opposing the federal "Freedom of Choice Act" (FOCA). The Senate version states: The Freedom of Choice Act is a radical attempt to enshrine abortion-on-demand into American law, to sweep aside existing laws that the majority of Americans support, such as requirements involving fully informed consent, parental involvement, and that licensed physicians perform abortions, and seeks to prevent states from enacting similar protective laws in the future. The Senate resolution is co-sponsored by Senators Coughlin, Faber, Gibbs, Schaffer, Schuring, Seitz, and Wagoner. The House resolution is sponsored by Representatives Adams, Amstutz, Balderson, Blair, Boose, Bubp, Derickson, Gardner, Grossman, Hite, Hottinger, Huffman, Jones, Jordan, Lehner, Maag, Mandel, Martin, Mecklenborg, Morgan, Sears, Stautberg, Uecker, Wagner, Watchmann, and Zehringer. FOCA would overturn all pro-life state and federal laws of the past three decades. See FOCA factsheet.
40 Days for Life - Week 3
March 13, 2009--Reports this week are that since February 25, over 90 babies across the nation have been saved from abortion through 40 Days for Life prayer vigils. Tuesday vigils were coordinated with the Please join in a candlelight vigil tonight, and every Friday through April 3, 7-9 p.m. at Planned Parenthood's abortion headquarters on Auburn Ave. Friday, April 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Archdiocese of Cincinnati's Coadjuter Archbishop Rev. Dennis Schnurr, will join participants to lead the Rosary and encourage the effort. The list of participants is growing - join anytime! Besides individuals and friends, the participants' list now includes representatives from the tri-state:
For information about the Greater Cincinnati campaign, visit www.40daysforlife.com/Cincinnati, or contact Mary Clark, Greater Cincinnati chair, 513/791-4039, clarkre@fuse.net.
Way of Love Starts This Sunday - March 22nd March 17, 2009--THE WAY OF LOVE--Students, Families, Individuals - Stand Up for Life: Seventh annual LENTEN Pro life Rosary Walks--prayer changes hearts and minds. Begins THIS Sunday March 22nd, and also Sundays March 29 and April 5, 2-3 pm. Meet at Burnet Woods Bandstand, Clifton (across from Good Sam) process from Burnet Woods up to and around the block encompassing the abortion center on Jefferson Ave. www.TheWayofLove.org, 513/314-9121
Reminder: Bobby Schindler in Cincinnati Thursday March 17, 2009--Terri Schindler Schiavo's brother, Bobby Schindler - in a first visit to Cincinnati - will speak Thursday evening, March 19, 2009 at Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Center, 5440 Moeller Ave., Norwood, OH 45212 Mass 7:15 p.m.; speaker 8 p.m. Sponsors: The Catholic Shop & Women Influencing the Nation. Free will donations accepted. (513/293-6762) Terri Schindler Schiavo Foundation
Next Federal Assault on Life - Physicians' Conscience Rights March 11, 2009--In August of 2008, President Bush's administration officially released new regulations protecting pro-life doctors and medical personnel from involvement in abortions and related practices. These protections include penalties for facilities receiving federal funds that discriminate against pro-life doctors on abortion, and also protect medical facilities that don't want abortions performed on their premises. In still yet another concession to pro-abortion forces, Barack Obama is threatening to overturn these protections very soon. He has instructed the department of Health and Human Services to rescind the clause protecting conscience rights of pro-life health care workers. However, the Obama administration is first permitting an open comment period, and citizens may email their opinion to proposedrescission@hhs.gov; deadline April 9, 2009. Please contact the Obama administration to uphold American religious freedom and First Amendment rights, and to NOT overturn conscience rights of health care workers so that they may refuse to promote, participate in, or perform abortions or other controversial practices that go against their religious and ethical convictions.
Next Federal Assault on Life - Embryos March 10, 2009--Today, by Executive Order, Barack Obama has overturned the "Bush restrictions" on federal funding (our tax dollars) for embryonic stem cell research. In 2001, President Bush limited federally funded embryonic stem cell research to stem cell lines that already exist from some now-dead embryos. These stem cell lines can be used indefinitely, and no more embryos were to be killed. (Note: these restrictions did not govern privately funded research, only federally funded.) Embryonic stem cell research involves breeding tiny human embryos to extract their stem cells for experimentation when a few days old, after which they die. This destructive misuse of human beings is unethical. So-called "adult" stem cell research, or non-embryonic stem cell research, uses cells from a patients' own body to seek therapies, such as such as bone marrow, baby teeth, nasal cavities, umbilical cord blood, and more. "Adult" (non embryonic) stem cell research kills no human life and is completely ethical. There is growing list of near miraculous cures through "adult" non-embryonic stem cell research: most recently, a study at Northwestern University Chicago indicates that bone marrow stem cell therapy may halt multiple sclerosis, and a recent UCLA study indicates patient-derived neural stem cells may be able to iPS cells - which also does not kill tiny human beings and is entirely ethical. Embryonic stem cell research has had no cures whatever, but has had disastrous results of tumors in experiments with rats and also recently released information on the first documented case of tumors resulting in a human. "But even if embryonic stem cell research should yield successes, any experimentation that involves killing human embryos is immoral," said Paula Westwood, Executive Director, Right to Life of Greater Cincinnati. "Good research for the betterment of human health and welfare is a blessing. But all people must oppose as morally evil any research that experiments on and kills or maims human beings at any stage of development--as has been historically evident in nations that have engaged in such abuses."
Radical Freedom of Choice Act Coming Soon March 6, 2009--Do not be fooled. Every assault Barack Obama has promised against innocent human life is occurring. Despite media and others' attempts to brush off the seriousness of the so-called Freedom of Choice Act (Unrestricted Abortion Act), it will be considered soon in the U.S. House and Senate, with little changes. See LifeNews.com article: Radical Pro-Abortion FOCA Coming Soon, Pro-Life Advocates Must Prepare This legislation overturns all pro-life state and federal laws of the past three decades. See FOCA factsheet.
40 Days for Life - Week 2 March 6, 2009--Reports are that since February 25, over 30 babies across the nation have been saved from abortion through 40 Days for Life prayer vigils. Please join in a candlelight vigil tonight, and every Friday through April 3, 7-9 p.m. at Planned Parenthood's abortion headquarters on Auburn Ave. Tuesday, March 10, the Silent No More Awareness Campaign for post-abortive hope and healing will join 40 Days for Life to pray for those who have been wounded by abortion - to counter this date marked by pro-abortion advocates as "Thank Your Abortion Provider Day." You may join the vigils at any time. Besides individuals and friends, the participants' list now includes representatives from:
For information about the Greater Cincinnati campaign, visit www.40daysforlife.com/Cincinnati, or contact Mary Clark, Greater Cincinnati chair, 513/791-4039, clarkre@fuse.net.
Contact U.S. Senators: OPPOSE Sebelius Appointment March 4, 2009--President Barack Obama has appointed rabidly pro-abortion Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius as Secretary of Health & Human Services, a critical government position. Predictions are that no opposition is expected from most legislators - our representatives! Contact your two U.S. Senators to oppose Kathleen Sebelius for Secretary of Health & Human Services Further information: Family Research Council summarizes: With the exception so far of Sens. Tom Coburn (R-OK) and Jim DeMint (R-SC), the nomination of Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (D-Kans.)--arguably the most pro-abortion governor in the nation--has been met by the Republican leadership with a collective yawn. Here is a woman who aligns herself against 80% of the country in suggesting that the government knows better than parents in children's health decisions, and yet the GOP can't muster the will to fight her nomination. As governor, she hosted a private reception for a notorious partial-birth abortionist [George Tiller, currently on trial for abortion crimes], vetoed bills that would have made abortion clinics cleaner for women, and blocked court reforms that would have helped to prevent third-term abortions. Like President Obama, she even opposed protection for infants who are born alive during an abortion. (Tony Perkins' Washington Watch 3/3/09) Sebelius is a Cincinnati native and a self-professed Catholic. Sebelius' bishop Archbishop of Kansas City Joseph Naumann rebuked her in 2008, stating that the governor should refrain from receiving Communion until she makes a worthy confession and publicly retracts her support for abortion rights. (Catholic News Agency Daily News, 3/4/09) Catholic Advocate has set up a web site documenting Sebelius' abortion history. American Life League has set up an online petition to protest Sebelius' nomination.
Resolution Opposing Freedom of Choice Act Introduced in Ohio Senate Information source: Ohio Right to Life March 3, 2009--Pro-Life State Senators Tim Grendell and Steve Buehrer introduced a resolution in the Ohio Senate today opposing the federal "Freedom of Choice Act" (FOCA). The resolution (S.R.C. 6), which urges the President and Congress to oppose FOCA, states that: "The Freedom of Choice Act is a radical attempt to enshrine abortion-on-demand into American law, to sweep aside existing laws that the majority of Americans support, such as requirements involving fully informed consent, parental involvement, and that licensed physicians perform abortions, and seeks to prevent states from enacting similar protective laws in the future." S.C.R. 6 was co-sponsored by Pro-Life Senators Kevin Coughlin, Bob Gibbs, Tim Schaffer, Bill Seitz, Mark Wagoner, Kirk Schuring, and Keith Faber.
Terri Schiavo's Brother Bobby Schindler in Cincinnati March 2, 2009--You are invited to hear an account of disabled Terri Schiavo's tragic last months, as she was starved and dehydrated to death by decision of her husband, supported by the courts. Terri's brother, Bobby Schindler - in a first visit to Cincinnati - will speak Thursday evening, March 19, 2009 at Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Center, 5440 Moeller Ave., Norwood, OH 45212 The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered at 7:15 p.m., Fr. Anthony Brausch celebrant. Bobby Schindler will give his personal witness at 8 p.m. Sponsored by The Catholic Shop & Women Influencing the Nation. Free will donations accepted. (513/293-6762) Terri Schindler Schiavo Foundation Barack Obama is Pro-Abortion February 2009--First to clarify the statement many grasped during the election to justify voting for this man: "Barack Obama is pro-choice, not pro-abortion." Those on both side of the abortion issue are "pro-choice." The difference is what is being chosen--accepting chemical or surgical killing of an unborn child for any reason for anyone, or not. Thus the accurate distinction is pro-life or pro-abortion. During the presidential campaign, Senator Obama publicly stated, "I've got two daughters. Nine years old and six years old. I am going to teach them first of all about values and morals. But if they make a mistake, I don't want them punished with a baby." Barack Obama is pro-abortion. A legislative analysis from a Washington insider predicts that under Obama we will see extreme pro-abortion bills, such as the Freedom of Choice Act (or Unrestricted Abortion Act) and its "evil twin" the Prevention First Act (or Abortion Industry Support Act); smear attacks on pro-life pregnancy help centers, and more. Obama's legislation initiatives will increase the numbers of abortions nationally and internationally. Through Barack Obama's Executive Orders such as that overturning the Mexico City Policy, enacted January 23rd, we U.S. taxpayers will now fund abortions overseas, at an increase from $88 million to $545 million. In recent budget pork piling, Obama also overturned the Kemp-Kasten Amendment restrictions against funding the United Nations Population Fund, which includes among its programs support for China and its one-child policy, forced sterilizations and forced abortions. The UNFPA will now receive $50 million. But perhaps Barack Obama's pro-abortion mindset is most evident in his political appointments. Many are radical pro-abortion activists who have worked to further a relentless pro-abortion agenda; prime example Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Barack Obama's deliberate and determined pro-abortion record is not new. For a related historical timeline see the Moral Accountability web site. --P. Westwood, Executive Director
40 Days for Life - Week 1 February 27, 2009--Wednesday, February 25th, 40 Days for Life began in Greater Cincinnati and in over 130 across the nation and beyond, for simultaneous covering of abortion centers with prayer through April 5. Yesterday, national director, Shawn Carney, was present in Greater Cincinnati at Planned Parenthood's abortion headquarters on Auburn Ave. along with about 40 prayer warriors. Participants may join at any time - from both sides of the river, co-workers, team mates, all church denominations. Besides individuals and friends who have signed up, the following are now on board:
For information about the Greater Cincinnati campaign, visit www.40daysforlife.com/Cincinnati, or contact Mary Clark, Greater Cincinnati chair, 513/791-4039, clarkre@fuse.net. 40 Days for Life Kick-off & National Chairman Visit Events This Week February 23, 2009--"Pro-life members of the Greater Cincinnati community will join together for a kickoff event at Holy Name Church, 2448 Auburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH on Tuesday, February 24, 2009, 7:30 p.m. as the Greater Cincinnati area begins its 40 Days for Life campaign, said Mary Clark, spokesperson for the Greater Cincinnati 40 Days for Life campaign. In a surprise visit, Shawn Carney, National Director, 40 Days for Life, will be present at Planned Parenthood's headquarters on Auburn Ave. Thursday, February 26, 2009, 7:00 p.m. 40 Days for Life is an intensive pro-life campaign that focuses on 40 days of prayer and fasting, 40 days of peaceful vigil at abortion facilities, and 40 days of grassroots educational outreach. 40 Days for Life welcomes many new to pro-life prayer vigils, and has changed hearts and minds for good, including those considering abortion. Greater Cincinnati is one of the 130 cities across the nation and beyond conducting simultaneous 40 Days for Life campaigns from February 25 through April 5. Cincinnati vigils are being held in front of Planned Parenthood's abortion headquarters, 2314 Auburn Ave., and its Western Hills location, 2016 Ferguson Rd. Participants may join any time during the campaign. It is time to focus attention on the harm abortion has done in Greater Cincinnati and beyond," said Clark, "we look forward to seeing what kind of transformation God will bring about in our city." To learn more about 40 Days for Life, visit www.40daysforlife.com. For information about the Greater Cincinnati campaign, visit www.40daysforlife.com/Cincinnati, or contact Mary Clark, Greater Cincinnati chair, 513/791-4039, clarkre@fuse.net.
Ohio-Based Company Rebuilding Nebraska Abortion Center Contact Company to Cease Construction February 17, 2009--NBD International is an Ohio-based company, which is rebuilding a Nebraska abortion center owned by late-term abortionist LeRoy Carhart. Late term abortions are performed at this facility. Please contact NBD International and request that construction cease on this abortion mill (remember that they may be unaware of what they are working on). See more information in recent LifeNews.com news story
IMMEDIATE ACTION: Oppose Stimulus Bill & Judicial Appointments February 13, 2009--THE FOLLOWING CRITICAL DECISIONS MAY BE MADE IN THE NEXT 24-72 HOURS. Your legislators need to hear from you now! NOTE: If contacting legislators online and receive message that server is busy, keep trying. 1) Stimulus Bill Threatens Elderly & Encourages Euthanasia Information source American Life League, full story "The healthcare provisions in the massive Stimulus Bill call for the appointment of a new bureaucracy headed by a National Coordinator of Health Information Technology who will track your medical records, and limit your medical provider to only providing treatments the bureaucracy deems appropriate and 'cost effective.' The government will now track your every medical move. Patterned off Sen. Tom Daschle's book "Critical: What We Can Do about the Health Care Crisis," the plan will have the greatest impact on seniors. Daschle's plan asserts that seniors must forgo certain treatments for cost effectiveness. He praises similar systems in Europe that allow euthanasia and limited access to health care for the elderly. There will also be a new Federal Coordinating Council for Comparative Effectiveness Research modeled after a U.K. board that divides the cost of treatment by the number of years the patient is likely to benefit. The young will be treated and the elderly are left in the cold. ..." Contact your U.S. legislators and request that they vote AGAINST the stimulus bill:
2) Block U.S. Justice Nominees Votes for these three U.S. justice nominees may occur in the next 72 hours: David Ogden, nominated to the high-ranking post of Deputy Attorney General of the United States. As a private attorney, Ogden worked for the ACLU and filed a brief in the landmark abortion case Planned Parenthood v. Casey that denied the existence of adverse mental health effects of abortion on women. Ogden has also been one of the nation's most prominent porn defense attorneys, representing not only Playboy and Penthouse, but also PHE, Inc., the largest distributor of hardcore pornography in the United States. Thomas Perrelli is Obama's nominee for Associate Attorney General at the Justice Department. Perrelli won media attention as the attorney for Michael Schiavo, the Florida man who defeated Terri Schiavo's family in their desperate attempt to keep her from being brutally starved and dehydrated to death at Michael's insistence. Terri Schiavo collapsed under mysterious circumstances and was denied rehabilitation after funds won in a court settlement were allegedly diverted by Michael Schiavo for other uses. Elena Kagan, although well-credentialed as the dean of Harvard Law School, is the Obama choice for Solicitor General, a post so powerful its occupant is often called the "10th Supreme Court justice." Kagan has never argued before the U.S. Supreme Court, but she is most prominently associated with an 8-0 court ruling against her position in Rumsfeld v. FAIR (2006). She and other law school officials sued to overturn the Solomon amendment, adopted by Congress to ensure that law schools could not use homosexual rights rules to deny U.S. Armed Forces recruiters access to law school campuses." Contact your U.S. Senators and request that they vote AGAINST confirming these nominees.
CONTACT LEGISLATORS: OPPOSE "Prevention First" February 10, 2009--CONTACT YOUR U.S. SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES TO OPPOSE S.21 PREVENTION FIRST ACT While we must oppose the so-called "Freedom of Choice Act" (FOCA), which would overturn state and federal pro-life laws of the past several decades... ...we must just as strongly oppose the misnamed "Prevention First Act" (i.e., "Abortion Industry Support Act"). This extreme legislation:
CONTACT YOUR U.S. SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES TODAY TO OPPOSE S.21 PREVENTION FIRST ACT.
Sanctity of Human Life Events January 15, 2009--Below are known upcoming events surrounding the January 22nd sad anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court decision, Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion on demand in this country. Additional events may be conducted by various churches and organizations. All are welcome to participate to honor the sanctity of human life. Greater Cincinnati: Right to Life Mass, Friday, January 16, noon; Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Center, Norwood, OH Helper's of God's Precious Infants' Prayer Vigil for Life, Saturday, January 17, 8:00 a.m., Mass at Holy Name Church, and prayer in front of Planned Parenthood, 2314 Auburn Ave., Cincinnati (513/984-6742) "Just One Hour" Prayer Vigil, Sunday, January 18, 2-3 p.m., in front of Planned Parenthood, 2314 Auburn Ave., Cincinnati (513/791-4039) Archdiocese of Cincinnati March for Life Send-Off, Wednesday, January 21, 7:30 p.m., Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Center; prayer service before buses leave for Washington, DC; open to the public (513/421-3131) Butler County Right to Life March for Life Thursday, January 22, 7-8 p.m.; Butler County Courthouse (513/523-6449) Helper's of God's Precious Infants' Prayer Vigil for Life, Saturday, January 24, 8:00 a.m., Mass at Holy Name Church, and prayer in front of Planned Parenthood, 2314 Auburn Ave., Cincinnati (513/984-6742) 25th Annual Pro-Life Rosary Procession, Saturday, January 24, 11 a.m.; Meet at City Hall and process to Fountain Square for noon rally; speakers former State Rep. Tom Brinkman, Hamilton County Clerk of Courts Patty Clancy, State Senator Bill Seitz All Saints Church Cincinnati March for Life Thursday, January 22, 8939 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati; March 4:30-6 p.m.; Prayer service 6-6:30 p.m.; family oriented event; youth sponsored (513/791-7947; 513/791-6351 church) Elsewhere: March for Life 2009, Thursday, January 22, Washington, DC Columbus Rally for Life, Thursday, January 22, 12-1:00 p.m., Ohio Statehouse West Lawn, sponsored by Greater Columbus Right to Life Cleveland's 1st Annual Walk for Life, Saturday, January 17, Noon, Perk Park/Chester httpCommons, East 12th & Chester Ave., downtown Cleveland; speakers Eileen Smith and Ohio Christian Alliance president, Chris Long (216/661-3000, www.ClevelandRightToLife.org)
Governor Signs Protecting Pregnant Women from Coercian & Violence Act Information source: Ohio Right to Life, 614/547-0099 January 12, 2009--See good news below from Ohio Right to Life! Be sure to note all this bill will do to protect women and children, including protecting minor girls who may be victims of adult sexual abuse and attempted cover-up through abortion. Thank you to those who worked so hard in Columbus to make this happen. Governor Signs Protecting Pregnant Women From Coercion & Violence Bill (Columbus) Governor Ted Strickland recently signed Sub. H.B. 280, the Protecting Pregnant Women from Coercion & Violence Act. In addition to protecting pregnant women from violence and coerced abortions, the new law will allow proof of a pattern of failing to report known or suspected child sexual abuse in a lawsuit for damages against abortion facilities or others who are required to report child abuse. Sub. H.B. 280, which was sponsored by Rep. Michelle Schneider, will:
"Just One Hour" Prayer at Planned Parenthood January 18 January 8, 2009--
...So you could not keep watch with me for one hour? Join fellow pro-lifers for Just One Hour of private prayer for the end of abortion in front of Cincinnati Planned Parenthood's abortion headquarters, Auburn Ave., on Sanctity of Life Sunday, January 18, 2-3 p.m. If questions, contact Mary Clark, Chair - Cincinnati 40 Days for Life (513/791-4039), or Paula Westwood, Director - Cincinnati Right to Life (513/728-7870). For those who will be in Cincinnati on January 22nd, the sad memorial of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision which legalized abortion on demand in this country, please consider additional Just One Hour of prayer at Planned Parenthood, or wherever you may be able to pray. ACTION: President-Elect Obama Will Sign "Freedom of Choice" Act [Download FOCA Factsheet for distribution - initial facts compilation Mary Paul Forsyth.] President-elect Barack Obama has said he would not only support but sign into law the Freedom of Choice Act. During a presentation to Planned Parenthood in the summer of 2007, Senator Obama stated "The first thing I'd do as President would be to sign the Freedom of Choice Act." The Freedom of Choice Act would overturn virtually all state and federal pro-life laws. Examples of those overturned would be: informed consent laws, freedom of conscience laws, laws protecting women from unsafe abortions and abortionists, 24 hour waiting periods, pre-abortion counseling and ultrasound requirements, restrictions on partial birth abortions and late-term abortions, and more - all which have helped decrease numbers of aborted babies. FOCA would also overturn all restrictions on publicly funding of abortion and require we taxpayers to pay for elective abortions. President-elect Obama and his supporters claim that he supports reducing the number of abortions. BUT, eliminating all restrictions on abortion and publicly funding it will increase abortions, rather than reduce them--it is NO choice. ACTION: This is extreme legislation even many who call themselves "pro-choice" would not support. Get this information to all you know! Contact your U.S. Representatives and Senators and request that they OPPOSE the Freedom of Choice Act. |