Every child’s first right
The right to life begins with the right to be born.
This might seem obvious, but our culture today takes for granted that a child’s life is up for debate.
Abortion, including sex-selective abortions, is readily available; IVF selection for genetics and sex is widely accepted, and it’s common to hear dehumanising language referring to unborn children.
Defending every child’s first right means being clear about when life begins, at conception. It means rejecting dehumanising language like “clump of cells” to refer to unborn children.
It also means speaking clearly about the trivial approach our culture takes towards unborn children.
Standing with mothers
A culture of life which upholds the dignity of the human person includes offering practical support to mothers in need so they can give life to their children. This includes support during pregnancy and assistance once their child is born.
Upholding the right to life means actively building services to help women choose life.
ACT Right to Life’s commitment to upholding life from conception to natural death is only valuable if we are prepared to support the women who will be bringing life into the world.
The response to abortion is not condemnation, but building a culture where mothers do not need to fear pregnancy and birth. This also means supporting policy that makes adoption a viable alternative.
Caring until the end
Palliative care is a vital part of upholding the right to life. Those approaching the end of life deserve care and comfort and properly funded palliative care facilities are necessary as an alternative to assisted suicide.
Supporters of Assisted Suicide talk about “dying with dignity” but the dignity of the human person is not contingent on their health or mobility.
We affirm that people with terminal illnesses and in pain still have dignity, have a right to be cared for and supported, and should be treated with compassion until their natural end.