Reproductive Racism

This past Tuesday I worked outside of EMC´s Jerome Avenue office in the North Bronx. While there, Gabriel and I were responsible for setting a table up and showing a video describing the natural cycle of a pregnancy. Along-side the television set was a set of fetal models which progressively show the size and weight development of the baby while in the womb.

In addition to utilizing these visual aids, we also pass out pro-life literature which covers a range of topics including Planned Parenthood´s ultimate goal to suppress the minorities in America under the guise of ¨helping¨ get rid of unwanted children. This controversial magazine drew many questions including my favorite: ¨Are you even Pro-Life?¨ I confidently described that, through strongly woven deceit and manipulative tactics, strategy that Planned Parenthood formed so long ago under the guidance of a racist woman named Margaret Sanger.

This woman is painted as being a progressive who wanted equal woman rights, rather than the bigot who formulated a plan similar to Hitler´s Holocaust. Except unlike Hitler, Sanger had wealthy philanthropists on her side, as well as a deceit stronger than Hitler´s. This is evident in that Hitler was stopped in 1945, whereas Sanger´s plan stemming from Black Genocide has morphed into a Genocide of Minorities.

For those in disbelief, check the stats. For those who agree, take a stand for those who don´t or can´t take a stand themselves. Thank you for reading.

Another Day, Another Child

Today, while working in the Brooklyn office, I had the experience to meet a young mother who was strongly abortion minded. After our consultation, she went for a sonogram and found out she was not in the early stages of pregnancy, rather in a late term pregnancy.

Though she is already a mother, she recognized what was the right and natural thing to do. She decided to choose life, and to embrace the hardships of raising yet another beautiful baby. Despite financial, and emotional concerns, she gave thought not only to what she had planned and wanted, but also considered the ¨the mass of cells¨ a.k.a. her baby.

The beauty of this change of heart was immense and it is moments like this that truly make the work in the Pro-Life Movement very, very worthwhile. Prayers and support bolster our work, so please keep the mothers, and future mothers in your prayers.

The Power of Prayer

On Saturday I went to sidewalk counsel outside Doctor Emily´s Abortion Clinic. However, this week, our band of interns was neither little nor afraid. As we walked out of the subway station, I felt as though God had bestowed new courage on me, not to mention there was five Friars there as well. Their prayers and counsel helped me to overcome the fear, apprehension and hate for the Pro-Choice escort crew.

I sadly admit I did not get the opprotunity to turn around any woman´s opinion, I feel as though a huge impression was made this past weekend. Not only were the women fully informed about the abortion procedure, but the local residents supported us with kind words and affirming attitudes.

Unfortunately that will be the last Saturday I could possibly be outside of Emily´s, but what a day to witness the power of God. The Friars proved the importance of prayer in this fight against abortion.

An Ageless Fight

When the chance to attend a Pro-Life rally outside of abortion clinics arise, we should take a hand in this action. I would recommend attendance to every opprotunity presented by the Movement. However, I was surprisingly shocked, for many who would be attendance are not only young workers in the Pro-Life Movement, but various individuals who had amazing encounters to share in the fight to defeat the destructive force of abortion within the United States.

The chance to present a positive image of the youth of America is an incredible opprotunity which many, even in the Catholic college I attend take for granted the chance to defend the defenseless.

It not only was a chance to meet new individuals, but also to make a statement to the Pro-Choice Movement. The youth in America will not condone the action of abortion advocates, but rather a stance needs to be made in order to defend not only the defenseless baby, but also the scared women who turn to abortion as the ¨final solution.¨ Not only is prayer necessary for this to occur, but also action, be it large or small, every little bit aids the effort to end abortion.

Racial Equality

After all that our country has witnessed, experienced, and endured, I still don't understand why there is still bigotry, ignorance on social issues that plague all, and the maintained disregard for our fellow men.

One would think between medical, and social advances simple things like racism would not longer exist, as well as morals not being shoved aside. However, the fact is that there is a blatant disregard for morals, and the well being of others.

After counseling several multi-racial girls today in the Bronx office, I came to realize that not everyone may look at race as a huge deal. I mean, after all living in a Hispanic neighborhood in the Bronx, working with various ethnicities, and being a white male, I thought people would look at me differently. But, instead I came to realize that it wasn't about me, or my race, but rather it was about the girls in crisis pregnancies. It doesn't matter if your black, white, asian, or hispanic, the fact f the matter there is a child in the womb of these women and that is a human being who has the right to experience life and make choices to guide his own life.

Thank you to the girls who have made me recognize this simple fact of life.

Importance of Remaining Intact

While working in the Bronx office this morning, I had the chance to speak with two young women who were uncertain in their pregnancies. Being impressionable and young, these two girls listened to everything I had to say, in addition to watching educational videos. At the conclusion of each of the sessions, both girls commented on how being informed would have changed their decisions, if in fact their pregnancies had been real.

This led me to contemplate how abstinence has been disregarded in our culture. It is sad that contraception is being passed out to the youth of America, as though it were Halloween, and those pills and condoms were candy waiting to be devoured.

The re-emphasis of remaining a virgin must be recognized by our youth, as well as the administration within the American education system. However, it has consistently been disregarded as the moral integrity of America slides down a slope. Remain steadfast in prayer and hope, for the truth always prevails.

Back on the Block

After not being outside of Doctor Emily's Abortion Clinic for nearly two weeks, I realized how much I missed assisting confused women in that setting. When I went on Saturday morning, I knew I was tired and really didn't want to be there. But as soon as the girls came strolling onto the block, I knew this was all part of God's plan, thus I knew to accept it.

After two hours of uninterrupted sidewalk counseling, two friars showed up outside the front of clinic to pray and sidewalk counsel. When they arrived a feeling of calm instantly surrounded the entire area, however that tranquility was soon interrupted by several shouting girls and escorts.

In the middle of the squabble was the one of the friars who was peacefully counseling a girl, meanwhile one belligerent escort yelled about the rights of women and other rude comments. The friar took it all in a stride, turned his cheek in Christ-like fashion, and continued to explain abortion-related things to the girl.

This is the example of Christ on the frontline of the battle is a sight to see, as is witnessing the emotional and angry display of a woman who is simply ignorant.

Dear America: We Love You

As Independence Day approaches, the recognition of individual American rights have a diminished sense of importance. This is not to say that many Americans do not appreciate our rights and the sacrifices made by our military, but rather our cookouts, family reunions and fireworks have seem to have taken precedence.

Despite the unity the American people may feel as this celebration approaches it seems strange to me that the most basic rights we celebrate are blatantly ignored. The three basic rights we have as Americans are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, however, on the days preceding July 4th, it seems as though America has lost respect for the rights granted to us in our Constitution.

These rights must be defended and upheld, despite the liberal agenda. This fact may seem to be pushed aside by the liberal media, but the actions of the conservative movement, especially that of the Pro-Life Movement, have proven otherwise. These brave men and women within this movement have pushed to defend the most basic right of Americans. And to the Americans who love their nation in this respect, I salute, respect and sincerely thank you.

I'm Going In

Ever since the start if the Expectant Mother Care internship, I have been inspired by countless people. However, I also felt, at times, everyone was against the Pro-Life Movement. However, after attending several conferences, counseling clients and participating in the Movement, I have realized the support is out there. Be it from benefactors, center directors, or clients who have been turned from abortion, I have been given a new armor which, I feel as though, has made me invincible to insult.

I mention this due to the fact I have worked outside of a Doctor Emily's Clinic and initially felt self-conscience of the work I was doing. But after listening to other interns' stories of turnarounds, and witnessing the power of God that opinion has, in effect turned around. I have no shame in saying I work in a pro-life crisis pregnancy center, and am proud to stand outside of an abortion clinic to counsel both the abortion minded and post abortive girls.

The emotional and spiritual support from, not only other interns, but "every day" individuals is immensely uplifting. To some people, the prayers said for Pro-Life workers may seem to be ineffective, but in this ministry the work of God is present everyday. I am extremely proud of the work EMC has and will accomplish. And it leaves little to say, without the support and charity of our supporters, it would prove difficult to continue our work in the abortion capital of the United States.

Lots of Bottles; Lots of Babies

For the past week , I had the unique experience of interacting with thirty two parishes who participated in EMC's yearly fundraiser. While I was responsible of scheduling the pickup of the donations, I had the opportunity to work with two of EMC's Spanish interns, Maria and Teresa.

Despite the conflicting schedules, the counting of money and horrific traffic, I consider myself blessed have gotten to know foreign interns, various parish center directors, and to have had a part in the critical fundraising activities of Expectant Mother Care. I witnessed the interaction between generous communities and our crisis pregnancy center. The charity and generous nature of the Catholic community within the area is irreplaceable, immense and inspiring.

It is truly the work and charity of everyday individuals who spiritually and financially arm centers, such as EMC, with the armor necessary to fight the evil of abortion and dehumanization of the American culture. The result of receiving so many bottles will inevitably be the saving of innocent lives.

On behalf of all of the interns, and all the amazing individuals within the Pro-Life Movement, I say thank you for your support, for it truly allows those on the frontline to continue the effort to save babies and fight the culture of death.

A WorldWide Movement

Growing up in a society where abortion was accepted, I had always assumed there were many Americans who both supported and opposed the "Freedom of Choice" way of thinking. However, since the inception of my internship at EMC, I have realized the widespread opposition of abortion and the culture of death.

I previously assumed it was a uniquely American problem, however since meeting and working with various Spanish interns, and Hispanic employees, I realize the overall distaste of abortion.

I am astounded by the fact that so many Americans are anti-abortion, and the effort that those individuals make are impressive. However, I also am impressed with the movement in Europe, as well as, the eight Spanish interns that have come to New York City to intern with Expectant Mother Care. They will take their experiences back to Spain, and speak of the battle over abortion amongst themselves. These experiences will inspire and provide an outlet for hope for the Europeans who may think the battle for life is over.

This is not a uni-national movement, but rather it is worldwide. We have united to save the innocents who do not have a voice, and we have proven language is not a barrier to that sacred work.

Sigh of Relief

The other day while I was working in E.M.C.'s Queens office, I came into contact with a couple who had been previously counseled by a co-worker, Abigail. This young couple had decided to parent their expected child. However, after the sonogram was given, it was discovered that this young woman was if fact not even pregnant.

After receiving the news, the couple's facial expressions went from being taunt and frightened to happy an relieved. However, we preceded in showing them a neutral video regarding abortion and its possible side effects. The happy looks vanished when it was made apparent that abortion is unnatural and unhealthy. The couple realized that abortion was not the easy option out, but rather an emotional and trying path that would remain with them for the rest of their lives.

When asked how they felt after viewing this video, the mutual reply was one of disgust and resolve to do the natural and morally right thing, that is, parent if they were to become pregnant in the future. This is when my co-worker stressed the point of abstinence and made the argument of how this course of action was a physically and spiritually healthy option.

Not only was this couple turned off to abortion, but were convinced to do the morally right thing and express their love in another way. The way of self control may be said to be old fashioned and "dumb" in our day and age. However, when I look at couples who have been together for years, I notice the fact that adhering to morals remains the most healthy option. At the conclusion of the session, Abby and I knew we could finally issue a sigh of relief as well.

Insult to Injury? I Think Not.

The apparent stigma of being a employee of a Pro-Life organization is one of being a crazy, religious, and over-the-top individual who will go to any length to save a baby, including strapping a pregnant woman down til she gave birth. Everyone involved in the Pro-Life Movement knows this stigma is definitely false despite most of the participants being religious, and willing to embarrass themselves in order to inform women of the various dangers of abortion. The Pro-Choice advocates often paint a picture to abortion minded women that we are protesters, and violators of the rights of women. When I hear such accusations, I have to make an effort not to laugh at the ridiculousness of such claims.

Be it various insults from escorts, the lies of those employed at abortion clinic, or the ignorance of the uniformed public, we know the truth.

This brings me to the episode involving our office in Queens. As I manned a table at which I handed various informational papers to pedestrians, I took notice of a lady handing out cards to the local abortion clinic. As a co-worker was speaking with her, I also noticed she was staring at me. I was then told that she said I was a racist and I actually do not care about women. She furthermore said I was only there because of the fact I was getting paid. I, despite being angry due to false accusations, kept my cool and calmly replied I did this work, not for money or some other gain, but because I care about these women who are troubled and scared.

This blatant display of ignorance surprised me,but after contemplating it, truly didn't shock me. Racism has been an aspect in our society for ages, however I never thought I would experience it while interning at EMC. Logically it can be followed that respect for each race stems from the respect for life. Therefore, it can be followed that from respect for life comes respect for different races.

Regardless of what we have been labeled, the Pro-Life Movement can be confident in the fact we are doing the morally right thing. In fighting for life, insults can be spewed, but they will not injure us. In conclusion, disregard those who are hateful, and appreciate the life and abilities God gave you.

The True Face of Doctor Emily's

Doctor Emily's Women's Medical Clinic is seemingly a innocent name of practice for the benefit of every woman. However, both you and I know better. To the unpracticed eye, it looks as though it is a general health clinic, but to those who stand outside waiting to inform women of the truth, it is easily recognizable as an abortion mill.

The lies and deceit these women face are immense. Not only are they uniformed of the abortive procedure and its dangers, but also the sign it self is a blatant lie. There is no Doctor Emily, and to say so is false advertising, which misleads many of the girls entering that clinic. The Pro-Choice Movement has pushed their bounds in slandering the Pro-Life Movement, as well as convince the women they serve into thinking of a friendly center where abortion is "just" a procedure done for the benefit of that individual woman.

I have seen women leave that abortion mill crying, angry, ashamed and hurt. Those women are not told of the emotional pain they will endure, nor the physical damages upon their bodies. The truth must be told. Abortion advocates claim that they are "Pro-Choice"; if this is the case, then why the escorts, the barriers and the insults? If it were truly a Pro-Choice stance, then both sides would be able to present their information and let the woman choose.

But, this is not the case. We are impeded at every turn, be it by the government, the barriers, and the escorts. However, this doesn't stop us. We are morally in the right and fight for the most basic right every human has, the right to life.

Lose Not Faith nor Hope

I was told that despite how demoralized I may become in this work, there is always hope. As I think back to that comment, I realize that it is not just the hope to save babies, but also hope for the restoration of a society focused on life.

It is easy, especially in our moral less society, to lose our sense of direction. However, I have realized that the basis of our Christian society is the social unit of the family. Throughout history, civilizations have risen and fallen due to the standing of the family with that particular social structure. It amazes me as to how our American way of life, which is founded in the principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, has given way to the principles of irresponsible behavior, immoral materialism and disregard for the needs of a people. When does pro-death behavior give liberty to Americans? It neither allows for the "socialist equality" of the liberals, or the right to bear a child without being pressured by a massive government funded abortion mill. Where is the defense of the unborn Americans who are to stand up and defend this great nation when our generations have passed away.

The pro-choice liberals have little thought to morals, but also to the future of American independence, for which so many courageous men and women have fought and died for. If we do not defend the most innocent and frail, then when do our morals compel us to do anything else. I realize justice will eventually be served, however, as the great phrase goes, "God helps those who help themselves." And if our nation is to preserve itself, the recognition of the institution of family and the Pro-Life Movement is inevitable. Have the hope we can persevere and the faith the next generation will assist in that, after all hope is a one way street.

Apprehensive No More

While sidewalk counseling outside of Doctor Emily's Abortion Clinic, I had the experience to speak with abortion-minded clients. While numerous young women simply walked by disregarding the options I offered, there was one couple who listened to what I had to say. After gaining their attention, I informed the couple of the abortion alternatives which E.M.C. offered. When listening to their complaints of the baby, I sensed the apprehensive attitude they had toward the abortion procedure. When I gently inquired about this, the response was brief and concise. The male was willing to submit to the female's want for the abortion, but then mentioned the parental disapproval of both their parents.

After speaking with them, I thanked them for their time, and told to call one of our centers if the situation called for it. The couple then strolled inside of the clinic, but thirty minutes later they walked back out in the direction towards their vehicle. As they pulled out, the male smiled and waved, while the female gave another counselor a smile. The initial instinct I had was that the baby was aborted, but then another counselor informed me of the fact that the couple most likely kept their baby.

After work I prayed for that couple and their baby. The grace God gave me allowed for me to do the life-saving work accomplished that day. What the Pro-Choice advocates do not understand is that despite being ignored by many, the fact that we could save the life of one baby gives us the inspiration to continue the work of Our Lord.

Faith and Freedom

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the Faith and Freedom Conference in Washington D.C. This inspiring organization identifies with the values and issues in America, especially the battle regarding the right to life and the promoting of the pro-family stance within American society. From various speakers, such as Congressman Alan West, came the resounding idea of not forgetting the origins of the American people, and the values that set our nation on the path to greatness. The call to be strong in the defense of our morals, to uphold our Constitution and to never fear in the unveiling of our Christian faith. President Reagan once referenced the United States being a light of liberty and freedom to all other nations, and if our light were to die out, then so goes the hopes of democracy to other nations.

Another impressive speaker, Michelle Bachmann, passionately advocated for the ideals of the modern American woman. As the mother of five, Mrs. Bachmann defends the right to life and the institution of the family, especially the sanctity of marriage. The defense of marriage has been yet another battle fought by stalwart conservatives, such as Representative Bachmann, who, beginning in 2003, had pushed against the tide to redefine marriage. However, with her intense work and that of like-minded individuals, the definition of traditional marriage won out in an overwhelming fashion.

These battles are part of the war the secular society has waged on the ideals of conservative America, that is, the ideals our great nation was founded upon; Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. It is the disregard for these inalienable rights that has led to fight which our generation will be a vital part of. We must stand for the dignity of human life, from the defenseless baby to the protection of the sacrament of marriage. It is under the leadership and inspiration of leaders, such as Representatives West and Bauchmann, that my generation is correctly informed so that we too can participate in the restoration of a moral society.

On the Front-line

Confrontation has been a major issue throughout the history of man. However, in regards to the Pro-Life Movement, the confrontation of which I speak is of a different nature. It is a spritual confrontation. I experienced this silent opposition for my first time outside of Dr. Emily's Abortion clinic in the Bronx. There I was, a young man who was attempting to side-walk counsel women, in a last defense effort to save their babies.

For those who have never had the humbling experience of standing outside of an abortion clinic, take it from someone who has. It is one of the most intense feelings, be it due to the escorts who try to prevent you from counseling or the fact you are standing forty feet away from the site of countless murders.

Between counseling and handing out brochures, I would silently pray the Rosary or read from the Imitation of Christ just to keep me focused on the mission. It was emotionally stressful watching women stroll into the clinic, not knowing all the risks, and hobbling out in a painful fashion.

However, the EMC interns were not alone. Two amazing individuals came to pray out back of the clinic and gave me emotional and spiritual support, as well as the three ladies in the front of the building. This beacon of light was faint, but it was present. Through every cloud, light will shine forth and despite how faint that light may be, we must always follow God, even on the front-line.

Inspiration Found

The first real involvement I had within the Pro-Life Movement was the attendance of the Heartbeat International Conference in Columbus, Ohio. While traveling out to Columbus, I was hesitant and unsure that I had made the right decision to intern with E.M.C. However, when I arrived, I found a group of amazing individuals comprised of fellow interns such as Marnee, Michelle, Heather and Abby, along with EMC founder, Chris Slattery. After some awkward small talk I realized these people had similar beliefs and the same convictions as I did, thus my apprehension disappeared.

The first day of the conference I attended two workshops, one concerning the ministering to urban clients and the other concerning the raising of cross cultural awareness. The speaker of the first workshop, Pat Upchurch, was inspirational, hilarious, but also presented the facts in a serious manner. She spoke on the importance of bridging out and listening to the clients, in effect saying look at the situation from their point of view. The second speaker was Gail

Dudley, who raised the point not to stereotype people and be open to the client who will have a different background than you. Both women forced me to think outside of myself and to contemplate how fortunate I am, and how I can spread my talents with the less fortunate.

On the second day, I heard Mark Bradley speak on post abortive stress. This individual shared his testimony of the destructive power of abortion on post abortive fathers. Not only was his speech moving, it also made me realize that abortion, no matter what Planned Parenthood tells the general public, harms society, even if it is not directly involving every person.

I, again, attended a workshop presented by Mrs. Upchurch, due to her rigor and passionate manner in which she presented the earlier topic. Speaking on identification of post abortive stress symptoms, Mrs. Upchurch related her painful testimony of abortion and the effects on her life. However, through this speech, Mrs. Upchurch, in a witty manner, expressed why this changed her and brought her closer to the Almighty. Her testimony is proof that God has a plan for every human being that He created.

Though I was initially apprehensive at first, I came to realize the individuals attending the Heartbeat Conference were similar to me in more than one way. True, the interdenominational factor was present, however so was the passion for the Pro-Life Movement. I thank the women and men who dedicate their lives to this work, not only because they fight to preserve human dignity, but also because they inspire the younger generations to stop sitting on the sidelines and fight alongside them in this ever crucial spiritual war on abortion.

The New Guy

My name is John, I hail from the Electric City of Scranton, Pennsylvania. As the youngest of seven children, the pro-life morals have been instilled in me since before I can remember. I attend Christendom College, a Catholic liberal arts school located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. Aside from pursing my B.A. in Political Science, I enjoy playing soccer, reading, and being involved in the school community.

My experiences involving the pro-life movement have been limited to attending the March for Life in Washington D.C. I am extremely excited to be involved in pro-life work with E.M.C. and to be working with courageous individuals who make the effort to protect the most defenseless form of humanity. This experience that God has placed before me will, undoubtedly, have challenges and present the opportunity to do the work of God.