Obama policy reversal causes outcry from female Latin American leaders

Caracas, Venezuela, Jan 30, 2009 / 02:32 am

Several Latin American leaders have criticized President Barack Obama’s Jan. 23 reversal of the Mexico City Policy, arguing its funding of organizations which promote or perform abortions both disrespects the right to life and threatens countries whose laws protect unborn human life.

Christine Vollmer, President of the Caracas-based Latin American Alliance for the Family (ALAFA), in a Wednesday statement called the decision a “horrible way” to begin relations with Central and South America.

“Instead of a positive message of wanting to work to better conditions for every Latin American, President Obama has announced his willingness to fund the enemies of the people of Latin America, whose laws generally are very respectful of the right to life before birth.”

Liliana Negre de Alonso, Vice-president of Argentina's Senate and president of the World Action of Parliamentarians and Political Leaders for Life, attacked the U.S. president’s decision.

“We can’t say we defend human rights if we don't defend the first human right, the Right to Life from conception to natural death,” she said. “To use public funds to finance groups that promote abortion is not respecting the First Human Right, Life.”

Congresswoman Martha Lorena de Casco of Honduras voiced “deep regret and sorrow” that “one of President Obama's first decisions is to revoke the Mexico City policy.”

“I interpret this action as a promotion of abortion and a threat to the national legislation of my country,” she said.

Julia Regina de Cardenal from the El Salvadoran organization "Yes to Life” said her country’s constitution and laws have “total protection” for the right to life from the moment of conception.

“Our ‘Yes to Life’ organization works on a daily basis to provide practical help in a loving and life-enhancing way to poor women who have difficult pregnancies,” she said.

“Ours is the ideal situation: protective legislation and practical, life-enhancing help for people who need it. The U.S. government should follow our example; we shouldn't be pressured to repeat their tragic, anti-life experience!”