
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: FRIDAY, July 23, 1993                   TAG: 9307230377
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A-10   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

SHARED RESPONSIBILITY OF MATING PARTNERS

RESPONDING to Lee Fitzgerald's July 10 letter, "Pregnancy is the ultimate weapon for male dominance," and Andrea Sexton's response to Fitzgerald on July 17, "Abortion doesn't elevate, but demeans the status of women":

I agree and disagree in part with each. They state their respective positions without addressing the responsibilities of the partners in pregnancy. No individual, organization, law, government or protests can suffice for responsible partners by whom a life is begun, protected or destroyed. Neither partner should be excluded from decisions and consequences of mutual actions and conduct.

I agree with Sexton that "abortion demeans the status of women." Therefore, I believe abortion, not pregnancy, is "the ultimate weapon for male dominance." I don't think "dominance" by either sex enhances society, much less a relationship, nor can I see why it should be imposed or projected. If the male so desires to dominate, then abortion may encourage it. It also may relieve him of his parental responsibility, while destroying a life and perpetuating psychological and political dilemma. What price dominance!

No status, dominance, "pleasure" or politics is worth the price of a defenseless life. A silent cry should be heeded lest we succumb to voices that destroy. LUCILLE HUMPHRIES SALEM

by CNB