To the editors:
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Apparently Jean Peterman [Letters, October 20] misunderstood my October 6 letter. I did not say or imply that prochoice supporters fail to advocate a whole range of reproductive options. On the contrary, I recognize and respect the efforts of prochoicers who strive to create better choices for women and children even as they defend the legal availability of abortion. How can I not? Along with many other members of Feminists for Life, I was once in their shoes.
Prolife feminists differ from prochoice ones in that the former see abortion as an impediment to women’s equality. Otherwise their agendas are remarkably similar. The abortion issue must be considered on its own merits, not decided on the basis of the unfair ad hominem arguments which so frequently characterize the debate. Most prolifers are no more hysterical right-wing misogynists than prochoicers are narcissistic babykillers. Can we agree to recognize that compassion motivates people on both sides?
