Thursday, December 25, 2008

Anti-choice federal rules threaten women's health in other countries -- and also in the US

Thanks to Our Bodies Our Blog and Oklahoma Voice of Reason for bringing my attention to this video by Engender Health about the harm done by the Global Gag Rule.

This federal policy, was first enacted by Ronald Reagan, rescinded by Bill Clinton, then re-issued by George W. Bush. It forbids the use of US health care aid to advocate abortion as a means of birth control. In practice, the rule eliminates any discussion of abortion, and undermines efforts to provide contraception, maternal healthcare, and healthcare for children.

Engender Health has a petition calling on President-elect Obama to once again rescind the gag rule.

Meanwhile, over at RH Reality Check, Jessica Aron reports that the Bush Administration has finalized a rule allowing US health care providers to refuse to provide information about abortion to their patients.

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