Debating doesn’t include speaking for women
This is the opinion of Sarah d’Uscio, CSB sophomore and Op-Ed Editor
As one of the Op-Ed editors, I read every submission that ends up on the page. Two weeks ago, an SJU first-year wrote an opinion piece explaining both sides of the abortion debate, and while I believe his intentions were good, I don’t think a freshman Johnnie has the right to permit women to do what they want to with their own body.
I will always welcome different opinions that end up on the page. However, it is difficult not to notice the irony when the most essential parts of understanding the right to choose come from someone will never personally go through pregnancy, or childbirth.
That being said, I am so glad a man has finally permitted me to have opinions about my own body.
Truly, what a relief. For a moment, I worried that I might have to form those opinions on my own or, God forbid, consult medical professionals, or legal experts. But thankfully, an SJU first-year has graciously stepped in.
It’s comforting to know that after summarizing the ethical, political and medical debate, he decided the best way forward was to encourage readers to “go talk to the women in your life.”
My intention here is not to silence or shame anyone for writing about complex topics. Opinions are essential to a community like CSB+SJU, and our paper aims to support student voices. Abortion cannot be fully understood through the definition alone; it requires centering the voices of those most affected.
Men should not define abortion for us, and they certainly should not act as if their conversations, or “balanced views,” give women clarity we didn’t already have. Women do not need permission, guidance or reassurance from men to understand an issue that directly affects our bodies, our health and our futures.
If we are going to have meaningful conversations on abortion, we need to talk about the lived reality rather than hypothetical arguments.
