Broadening who belongs in the pro-life movement
Hi All,
Secular Pro-Life has a three-part mission. The second part of our mission is to create space for non-traditional pro-lifers.
Non-traditional pro-lifers oppose abortion but fall outside expected pro-life demographics, especially Christianity or political conservatism. They often feel socially stranded and unsure how to get involved.
We work to get everyone involved in pro-life activism in two ways:
- Invitation: we proactively seek, connect with, and equip non-traditional pro-lifers.
- Expansion: we train larger pro-life orgs to do the same.
We speak for muted voices.
First, we represent non-traditional pro-lifers. Doing so can be as simple as publicly and unapologetically stating that SPL is run by atheists. Here is an 11 second Instagram reel of Herb doing just that, and we got over 400,000 views for it.
Second, we make a point of repeatedly, explicitly acknowledging our stubborn non-trad followers.
These efforts don’t take long, but they resonate.
We train people to speak for themselves.
Here are just a few of our 2025 projects helping non-traditional pro-lifers to contribute and traditional pro-lifers to collaborate with them.
- Livestream: How to be pro-life in pro-choice social circles – Herb and Michelle talk about how they navigate being openly pro-life when so many of their friends are pro-choice.
- Essay: Many paths to opposing abortion – Published in Human Life Review, my essay explains to more traditional pro-lifers that there are many paths that lead people to oppose abortion. We just need to invite them to take a few steps down the nearest one.
- Webinar: Secular Post-Abortion Healing – I led a training for providers of post-abortion healing on particular considerations and actionable steps for helping secular post-abortive women.
- Training: Bridges Intensive – This year we launched a full-day comprehensive training grounded in nonsectarian, nonpartisan principles, on how to have useful conversations with pro-choice friends and family.
We’re a landing spot for alienated pro-lifers.
We know, because they tell us. Here are a few reasons people gave us this year for why they follow SPL:
“As someone who left religion and thought that meant I should become pro-choice, your organization really brought me back.” – HB
“I have no religious affiliation. No party affiliation. I’m thrilled to find others who share their views in a secular way.” – KF
“I’ve always been an ‘alt’ pro-lifer, and it’s nice not to be so alone anymore” – JL
We’re a stepping stone for moderate pro-choicers.
We know, because they tell us too.
“I’m mildly pro-choice but I want to hear all the arguments for and against.” – HA
“SPL had a role in my becoming pro-life before I became a Christian.” – BR
“You’ve truly guided me to take a couple steps further into the pro-life movement.” – AS
“SPL is one of the few resources that deals in facts and gives sources while encouraging both respectful debate and taking the time to actually understand the views of those you disagree with. This is why I came here initially when I was pro choice and why I’m still here now that I’m pro life.” – ME
Keep investing in what’s working.
We’re able to do all this because of your donations. You have already matched $1,631 of our $15,000 matching grant. Help us get the full benefit and bring in even more non-traditional pro-lifers in 2026! Consider an extra gift to SPL or, if you were already planning on giving, a slightly larger gift.
Another powerful way to advocate is to recommend us to others. Suggest SPL as a worthy nonprofit for your friends’ 2025 charitable giving.
Thank you for helping us roll out the welcome mat for all types of people who are pro-life.
Monica
If a traditional donation is not the right fit right now, we also accept support through Donor Advised Funds, stock donations, planned giving, and other methods. Learn more and find the strategy that works best for you.
