PRESIDENT BUSH DECLARES NATIONAL SANCTITY OF HUMAN LIFE DAY

by Glen on 2003-01-19 00:02:47

CNN reports: “In a move praised by conservatives and criticized by abortion rights activists, President Bush declared January 19 ‘National Sanctity of Human Life Day.’

Tuesday’s presidential proclamation was issued in advance of next week’s 30th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision, which legalized abortion in the United States. Conservatives have sought for years to overturn that decision.

Bush, who has supported various abortion restrictions, called on all Americans on Sunday to ‘reaffirm the value of human life and renew our dedication to ensuring that every American has access to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.’

‘Every child is a priority and a blessing, and I believe that all should be welcomed in life and protected by law,’ Bush’s proclamation said.

Abortion rights groups sharply criticized the president.

Susanne Martinez, vice president of public policy for Planned Parenthood, said the timing of the announcement showed that the Bush administration ‘has made it clear they’d like the law overturned in the U.S.’

‘This administration for two years has waged a war against women,’ she said in a telephone interview. ‘He has tried to elevate the rights of the fetus above the rights of women, and that’s a tragedy.’

Abortion opponents praised the president’s proclamation.

‘It’s a wonderful statement of what the pro-life movement is really all about,’ said Darla St. Martin, associate executive director of the National Right to Life organization.

‘President Bush’s pro-life view is clearly grounded in his respect and concern for all people,’ she added…”