I don't tell you what to cook for dinner, how to dress, how to raise your kids, what religion to practice, which candidate to vote for, or anything else for that matter. I'm respectful of each individual's right to make their own choices. Period. If you're an adult, I'm going to go out on a limb and guess that no one tells you what to do or how to do it. Or do they?
Women's reproductive rights and healthcare are being threatened, limited and cut by some states in our fine union. State governments and some of the Republican candidates running for President have decided they should legislate what women do with their bodies.
I don't want anyone telling me what I can and can't do with my body. It's my personal business, my personal choice. And,what I choose in my own life has absolutely no bearing on what anyone else chooses in theirs. That is between them and God.
Whatever your views are, let them be heard by making informed decisions on election day. Now is the time to make sure you're registered to vote in November. And, remember, it's not just the presidential candidate of your choice whose views you need to understand; it's also the views of your state representatives. These changes are happening at a state level. They will affect you, your mothers, daughters, sisters, nieces, cousins and friends.
I urge you to read the newspaper, watch the evening news and, if you're so inclined, join womenarewatching.org . If you want to know which states are currently at risk, click here.
Okay, now for the foul language part. I know some of you were wondering about it.
"Hundreds gathered Tuesday on the north steps of the Capitol to protest legislative efforts to declare personhood at conception. They were loud, enthusiastic and, at times, off color.
Senate Bill 1433, by Sen. Brian Crain, R-Tulsa, is pending in the House after securing approval in the Senate. Another measure, House Joint Resolution 1067, by Rep. Mike Reynolds, R-Oklahoma City, proposes to put the issue to a vote of the people. But Rep. Gary Banz, R-Midwest City, said the measure would not be heard in House Rules, which he serves as chairman and where it was assigned.
Protesters donned aprons and took off their shoes to show the measure was a throwback to when women had few reproductive or career choices.
“Women brought you in 2 the world,” read one sign. “Women will vote you out of this Legislature.”
Below is Oklahoma State Senator Judy Eason McIntyre holding a protester's sign and posing for the press. I love her.
