Some friends and I are tossing around the idea of starting a Democrats For Life of America chapter here in mid-Michigan.

What appeals to me about DFL is that they have a consistent life ethic, unlike Right To Life, which in my opinion just advocates forced birth. DFL is opposed to abortion, euthanasia, and the death penalty, and supports humanity/quality-of-life efforts throughout the world. Furthermore, DFL is a progressive group, and not tied into the right wing organizations the way that RtL is. There’s just no way that I could support RtL on any level. I don’t believe they are a pro-life organization at all.

What I am not thrilled about is the idea of criminalizing abortion, which DFL seems to support, albiet not as strongly as RtL. I can’t support criminalizing abortion; I just don’t believe in that. There are other ways to prevent abortion that are far more relevant and less hurtful to the individuals involved.

For progressives who want to advocate life issues within in the Democratic Party, DFL is a great place to start. And even if you’re not interested in party activism, local grass-roots advocacy is its own reward.

If you want to be involved in this, send me an email and I’ll keep you in the loop.