Ask a Pro-Life Atheist: Lesley C.
Once a month or so, the Secular Pro-Life blog features a short interview with a pro-life atheist or agnostic. (See the full series of interviews here.) Although Secular Pro-Life is not exclusively for atheists and agnostics, historically they have played a key role in the organization. As they become more prominent in the pro-life movement generally, we’re excited for the opportunity to share their stories. This month, we welcome atheist Lesley C.
How did you arrive at the anti-abortion position?
It always seemed obvious to me–abortion intentionally takes a human life. We define this as murder. And it is an especially egregious human rights violation because it is the murder of the most vulnerable among us. If such an obvious violation of our own moral code can be tolerated or even celebrated, what does that say about us as a species?
My anti-abortion position became further solidified as I researched the science and the arguments on both sides. It became obvious that pro-abortion arguments like viability were illogical, anti-science, and just stupid.
How did you arrive at the atheist position?
A lot of things. I come from a religious background, but as I came to be held to rigorous standards in my education, I found that it became impossible for me to tolerate religious dogma when it could not be held to the same standards. It actually came as a huge relief to me when I decided to stop making excuses for the inconsistencies in my religion and fully embraced atheism.
I’m a happier person now–more appreciative of life and my children. It took billions of years for us to come into existence and each of us is truly unique and will never be again. Religion can be pro-life but does not necessarily fully condemn abortion along with the resulting implications. I found it difficult to accept that certain religious leaders don’t explicitly condemn abortion because they believe that aborted children still exist in some form (as spirits, with God, etc.).
How do you contribute to the cause of saving lives in the womb?
Mostly, I donate to pro-life national and local organizations. Most of them are religious organizations, but I don’t mind as long as they are making an impact. (Though I would love to see and support a network of explicitly secular pregnancy centers.)
What words of wisdom do you have to share?
Abortion sucks.
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