March for Life highlights support for pregnant women
New Zealanders from all over the country will March for Life in Wellington this Saturday to mark the passing of the
Contraception, Sterilisation and Abortion Act 40 years ago. In addition, organisers wish to express to politicians and
the nation that significant support is available within the community for women who face an unexpected pregnancy.
The March for Life begins at Civic Centre in Wellington Central at 2pm on Saturday 9th December and concludes on the
steps of Parliament.
The March will be a joy-filled, family friendly event. The theme is "We love them both".
"Many hoped that this Act would regulate abortion in New Zealand, ensuring that pre-born children and their mothers were
protected" says Michelle Kaufman, spokesperson for the March for Life.
"Instead, because of a loophole, half a million of our children are missing. Women are hurting. Almost every family has
been affected in some way."
"Some people want to sanitise abortion by saying its health care" says Kaufman, "but killing a child is not health
care."
"True health care during pregnancy cares for both mother and baby."
Care extends far past the fate of the pre-born child. Organisers of the March acknowledge that women experience a wide
range of situations that lead them to believe abortion is the answer.
"Too often, women feel they have no other choice but to have an abortion" related Kaufman, "that isn't choice."
Support services exist throughout New Zealand for pregnant women. Kaufman notes that the support required is as unique
and varied as the number of women who experience an unexpected pregnancy.
"The right kind of support, tailored to each woman's particular situation, empowers her to follow her dreams and to
choose life for her baby."
Services include medical care, accurate information about all options available and practical support for as long as
required.
In addition, programmes are offered for women who have experienced abortion. "Often these programmes are led by women
who understand because they have been there" noted Kaufman.
Links to some of these services can be accessed at marchforlifenz.org.nz/get-help.
"Abortion is a terrible tragedy."
"We look forward to the day when no woman feels she must have an abortion because she has no other choice. We know the
day will come when abortion will be unthinkable."
Ends