So, there's this thing going around on FaceBook - in several different forms, that says that the GOP is trying to pass a bill that would deny federal financial aid with abortions, except in the cases of potentially fatal health complications and "forcible" rape.
Here's the thing - the sites that are bitching about the bill claim that this means the definition of rape is being narrowed, so that the government only pays for abortions in the cases of "forcible" rape - which would exclude most cases of date rape, statutory rape, or incest.
Directionless anger.
I have it.
In spades.
Ordinarily I try to do my homework, but this time I was too outraged to take the time. None of the sites linked the bill, and there were several of them.
When I saw the first one going around, I thought "...No...That can't be right. Someone must have misread."
When I saw the second one go around, I wondered.
The third time was the charm, and I went ahead and reposted it.
Naturally, it started an argument, and now people are bitching at me for hating Republicans and for not knowing what I'm talking about.
But here's the thing - if those sites are right, and the government is now refusing to pay for most abortions, including those for victims of date rape, statutory rape, and incest, guess what group is gonna get hit hardest?
Girls who can't vote.
Statistically speaking, most rape victims are under 18. Statutory rape means definitely under 18. Incest is generally the same.
So this bill would be denying financial aid for abortions to victims of rape who are often in school rather than working, and who cannot vote against it.
I'm not okay with abortion. I don't think it's right.
I think if you fuck without a condom, and you get pregnant, you should step up to the goddamn plate and take care of your child. You took a foolish risk, and you should bear the consequences with as much dignity as you can.
However, there are cases when abortions are necessary for the health of all involved. If the mother has health issues that would make it dangerous for her to carry a child, then she should not be forced to. And in cases of rape - ANY kind - I think it is beyond unreasonable to expect a girl to raise that child. Could you look into the eyes of your rapist in your child's face, and tell them you loved them? Could you mean it?
Or could you give them up for adoption, knowing that the system is flawed and the child will very likely face the same abuse and rape you had?
I try not to fly off the handle and go on enormous rants, but this was a majorly raw button for me, and I'd seen it enough times that I went ahead and assumed that yet again, rape victims were being fucked over by the government.
I guess all that anger I've been trying to figure out what to do with finally found an outlet.