Why Doesn’t America Feel “Created Equal”?

This phrase is embedded in our national identity. As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States, the concept of “We the People” seems, well, not fully inclusive. Some voices still remain unheard.

For instance, I once faced an unimaginable situation—experiencing a pregnancy that stemmed from a traumatic event. Yet, this child got a chance to grow up in a loving environment, adopted by 15 different families alongside nine other siblings. Life can be surprisingly intricate.

It’s important to untangle these words clearly. All humans are, indeed, human. Every person begins their journey at fertilization. Compromises we make often lead to discrimination, loss, and even worse outcomes.

Grant Me Freedom

Most people recognize Patrick Henry’s famous declaration from his 1775 speech, particularly his poignant words: “Is life so precious and peace so sweet that it can be bought at the price of chains and slavery? Almighty God, forbid that! I don’t know what path others will choose. But as for me, give me freedom or death!”

Henry’s impassioned rhetoric marked the onset of what became the American Revolutionary War. However, it’s worth noting that his advocacy for freedom starkly contrasted with his ownership of enslaved individuals—a contradiction of sorts, wouldn’t you say?

In a letter to a Quaker abolitionist who pointed out this hypocrisy, Henry responded in a revealing manner: “Who would believe that I am the master of a slave I have bought for myself? I am drawn to the convenience of having a slave. I cannot justify my actions, regardless of guilt… I hope for a time when I can help abolish this terrible evil.”

Choose Your Battles Wisely

Isn’t this reflective of our current culture? We acknowledge that the act of selective abortion is wrong, yet society often embraces it due to its perceived convenience. I find it disheartening that the comfort of one can come at the cost of an innocent, unborn child.

The Supreme Court finally had a chance to reevaluate decades of misguided rulings with the overturning of the historic Dobbs decision on June 24, 2022, which stated that there is no constitutional right to abortion.

This change brings a mix of emotions. On one hand, I understand the stories of individuals who have faced tough choices regarding pregnancy. I’ve encountered mothers who felt intense pressure to abort. In my case, two of my children were adopted, and I’ve detailed my journey in a new book and documentary titled “Should Have Been Canceled,” which recounts how many deem my life unworthy.

Humble Realizations

In a tragic turn of events, the court has allowed states to dictate who lives or dies. Just like slavery and gender discrimination, the right to life shouldn’t be determined by state lines. Can you imagine a scenario where rights vary from state to state, as slavery once did? That paints a bleak picture.

The Declaration of Independence serves as a reminder that our fundamental rights shouldn’t come from a government riddled with inconsistencies. It famously states: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: All men are created equal, endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

But, have we really achieved happiness as a nation when we’ve denied millions of people their potential offspring?

A Continuing Struggle

Even with a Republican-led government, efforts to safeguard lives seem to fall short. Following years of defunding family planning programs, Republicans shifted gears, and President Trump’s final version of a spending bill predominantly targeted the Democratic Party’s abortion funding.

Recently, when pressed about his stance on extending funding cuts for Planned Parenthood, Trump called it a “troublesome problem.” While he has indeed put forward pro-life policies, there seems to be a contradiction in words versus actions when it comes to abortion.

Currently, a federal bill aiming to outright ban abortion is still under discussion. This dilemma hampers the justice that countless individuals deserve.

Once, the Republican Party included a group known for its relentless fight against slavery. Today, it appears to be a mix of varying ideologies, lacking the same tenacity against the cycle of family planning and infanticide.

In the end, regardless of your personal beliefs, avoiding conflict will only lead to compromise. It’s vital to recognize that our children’s lives depend on a clearer, more compassionate approach.