Condolences for the Tiller Family

I haven't delved into the topic of reproductive choice on this blog. I support the Roe vs. Wade decision and find myself in broad agreement with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) The church may offer guidance but in essence says the woman who seeks to terminate a pregnancy should be the one accountable for that decision and should a woman choose to terminate a pregnancy the means should be safe and legal.

Some people use language such as murder, even torture to describe a woman's decision to terminate a pregnancy. Certainly we should debate and act regarding the complexities surrounding this issue. But the inflammatory language? It leads to this.

WICHITA, Kan. — Dr. George Tiller, who remained one of the nation’s few providers of lateterm abortions through decades of protests and attacks, was shot and killed Sunday in a church where he was serving as an usher and his wife was in the choir.

My condolences to the family of Dr. Tiller.

Tiller’s killing is “an unspeakable tragedy,” his widow, four children and 10 grandchildren said in statement issued by Monnat. “This is particularly heart-wrenching because George was shot down in his house of worship, a place of peace.”
The family said its loss “is also a loss for the city of Wichita and women across America. George dedicated his life to providing women with high-quality health care despite frequent threats and violence.”

Nancy Keenan, of NARAL Pro-Choice America said:

“Dr. Tiller’s murder will send a chill down the spines of the brave and courageous providers and other professionals who are part of reproductive-health centers that serve women across this country. We want them to know that they have our support as they move forward in providing these essential services in the aftermath of the shocking news from Wichita,” Keenan said.