To the Editor:

Amendment 3 is on the November 5th ballot. It restores the right of women in Missouri to make decisions about their reproductive health. Currently abortions are illegal in Missouri even in the case of rape, incest or a nonviable fetus.

The right to make decisions about one’s own body and one’s future without coercion is called “bodily autonomy”. This has long been recognized as a fundamental human right.

Our decisions about personal matters including reproductive health issues are influenced by our values, life experiences, knowledge, resources, community, family and other factors. Philosophy, theology, compassion and respect for science and constitutional rights influence the values of many. For some, religious beliefs influence decisions about reproductive health issues.

Freedom of religious beliefs is also a fundamental human right in our society. Different religions have different beliefs, including different beliefs about when life begins. Even within the same religion people have different beliefs about this issue.

Some may not understand how others can love babies and value human life and also support reproductive rights including abortion rights. This issue is not about debating religious beliefs or values. This is about the constitutional and societal rights of women.

If you don’t believe in abortion, don’t have one. If you don’t believe in contraception, don’t use it. One person’s religious beliefs should not override someone else’s rights of bodily autonomy including a woman’s right to reproductive freedom.

We support a YES vote on Amendment 3 on November 5.

Respectfully,

Hope Tinker and David Fortel

Fayette, Mo