Why I Protest Fake Clinics

I recently received an email from a woman asking, "why anyone would want to get rid of crisis pregnancy centers that help young women make an informed decision regarding an unplanned pregnancy?"  Unlike many of the emails FMF receives--often illogical rants opposed to full  reproductive health and rights for women--this sender was polite, curteous, and seemed to genuinely want to understand my perspective.  (Wow!?!)

After I had responded, I realized that it is important to share my voice--both for me and the feminist community as a whole.  So, here's what I wrote...  

Dear Ms. ___________,

Thank you for your email and your interest in open dialogue.  To answer your question, I fully believe a woman should have the right to choose if/how she will proceed with an unwanted/unintended pregnancy. 

I view Crisis Pregnancy Centers as a direct threat to women’s lives because many centers misinform women and keep them from gaining a comprehensive understanding of both their legal and medical options.  From brochures dissuading the use of contraception, to medically inaccurate materials attempting to link breast cancer with certain forms of oral contraception; to anti-abortion centers listing their information under “abortion services” in the yellow pages – these centers are deceptive and risk the health and well-being of the women who seek their services.

The Campaign to Expose Fake Clinics, as part of the Feminist Majority Foundation, seeks to guarantee all women a comprehensive understanding of any pregnancy, intended or unintended, and to encourage women to make the best decision for their well-being.    

Sincerely,

Wendy Matheny
Campus Program Director
Feminist Majority Foundation

What do you think?  How would you respond?  

For more information on the Feminist Majority Foundation's Campaign to Expose Fake Clinics, click here.