An American Tragedy: 39 Years of Legal Abortion

Every January 22, we stop to ponder the enormous shadow cast on our nation by the 1973 U.S. Supreme Court Roe v. Wade decision. With sheer emotion, we feel depression, anger, a sense of loss, grief, and, most overwhelmingly, a sadness that knows no limit. How could our great country built on liberty, equality, opportunity and hope jettison over 54.5 million people to a deplorable and violent death with the blessing of the law?

Abortion is a disgrace — a blot on our proud heritage; a cultural nightmare which gives birth rights to some and not others; a societal shift resulting in fewer young people to carry us into the future; and the loss of all of the gifts and talents of 53 million American brothers and sisters. Everyone knows someone who has had an abortion. We have felt the grief of a mother who recognizes long after the act what a terrible decision she made. Of a father who had no say in the abortion. Of grandparents who are inconsolable in their mourning. We envision empty chairs at gatherings and holidays which should be filled with loved ones who deserved to fulfill their unique destinies.

As difficult as it is, the annual observance of January 22 is as important today as it was 39 years ago. We can never, never forget. We must allow those whose only earthly existence was in their mothers’ wombs to inspire and motivate us every day to save lives, and to work for the enlightened time when abortion becomes unthinkable.

Barbara Lyons