The Right to Choose

By Simon Bryant | VOX Staff

In a society where we have choices as free American citizens, the government should have no authority in determining what a woman can do with her body. I feel like the difficult choice to terminate a pregnancy should be the woman’s.

The Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA), would secure that choice by reducing current obstacles to abortion. The U.S. Congress has considered the bill, on and off, for nearly 20 years. If passed, FOCA would prohibit any federal, state, or local governments from denying or interfering with a woman’s choice to terminate a pregnancy, making the procedure more accessible.

I do not feel that abortion should be an alternative to birth control, but if a woman knows she is not ready to support a baby emotionally and financially, I think she should have the right to do as she pleases with the unborn child. A lot of people say that giving a child up for adoption should be the first choice for someone who decides to give up her baby. But foster homes are already overcrowded. And too many children are neglected because of unplanned pregnancies.

Right now Americans are facing the toughest economic time in generations. Resources are limited, and people are struggling to support themselves and their basic living necessities. Why bring a child into the world and add another burden into the lives of a struggling woman or couple? Why make a child suffer?

When it comes to making choices, we all must weigh the cost and benefits and choose responsibly. FOCA would give women that choice.

Simon is a junior at Creekside High. He plays baseball and is in the marching band.