HJR73 Debate

I am listening to the debate on the House floor in the Missouri General Assembly today, and I want to chime in for a moment.

There is much discussion about bodily autonomy and the "will of the people." I’d like to make two points that I would raise if I were on the floor today.

The idea of bodily autonomy is flawed in its premise. Bodily autonomy is limited when a second body is involved, and the fetus is a distinct, living human body. The notion that one should have bodily autonomy in this case implies that one could override the autonomy of the other body involved.

The phrase "will of the people" has historical precedent. It was invoked regarding slavery, which was a central part of life for centuries, including when it was brought to America and Missouri. In the Dred Scott decision, the Missouri Supreme Court ruled that slavery was legal. The U.S. Supreme Court further declared that slavery was legal and that persons of color had no standing as citizens, deeming them property. The "will of the people" was cited then, as it is now. It was wrong then, and I believe it is wrong now. I will fight for the lives of those who cannot fight for themselves, regardless of the "will of the people," because I believe abortion is wrong.

As I was finishing this post, the House voted to perfect HJR73. I would definitely have been a yes if I were voting today. I hope this measure reaches the ballot and allows voters to reconsider Amendment 3, which I believe is flawed. I will fight for life, and I'll fight for the life of the unborn until abortion is a bad memory.