Pro- Choice
Over the last forty years, the question over abortion rights has been a highly debated social issue in our country. The Pro-choice movement began with a primary goal of legalizing abortion, and after this was achieved, continued to defend itself against the counter movements that rose in the late 70's. This movement enjoyed a level of successes that was not felt by other movements of the time. As highlighted in The Pro-Choice Movement: Organization and Activism in the Abortion Conflict, Suzanne Staggenborg examines the many factors contributing to the movement. While reading and researching this book and other pro-choice movement materials, some themes have arose that give insight into the successes of this movement despite its turmoiulous road. Devoted leadership, strong organizations and grass-root support, combined with motivation from the threats of the anti-abortion counter movement, enabled the pro-choice movement to remain an active force before and after legalization. The emergence of the pro-choice movement did not occur via the usual social movement roots. The early pro choice movement emerged from concerned physicians who wanted to help legalize abortions and keep the practice safe. Publishe
During this time there were also many women's groups that combined with abortion activists to strengthen their overall influence. Unfortunately, pro-choice support did begin to fall as many people felt the new issues had less appeal than the original legality issues. The political opportunity structure also changed as more formalized organizations stepped forward to support the Supreme Court decision. The movement did slow down but was reenergized due to the ongoing attacks by the Reagan and Bush administrations. Pro-choice movement supporters gained politically in the coming years as the view of being pro-choice became politically advantageous. The early movement gained both professionals who were influential nationally as well as grass roots activists who play an intricate role on the local level. By 1983, the NARAL was able to expand and make official its ties to local activists. However in light of this victory Staggenborg asserts that another movement emerged which is considered separate from the original reform movement. Two major events were specifically covered; the case of Sherri Finkbine who had taken a drug that could cause fetal defects and attempted to get an illegal abortion, and the epidemic of rubella measles that could also cause fetal defects. The counter movement was beneficial to the pro-choice movement in that it aroused supporters and created opportunities for local and national pro-choice movements to mobilize. " (Staggenborg, pg73-74) The Supreme Court's 1973 decision made huge changes in the abortion laws. The Pro-choice movement is truly unique to these times.
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Acceptance Essays
