Skip to content

Empower women to find their voices

While I appreciate the ARCC’s (Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada) concern regarding my feelings, I do not agree with ...

Re: Exercising the same rights, Feb. 12

While I appreciate the ARCC’s (Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada) concern regarding my feelings, I do not agree with their approach to this issue.

Too often people want to speak for women instead of empowering them to find their own voice.

Where is this more true than concerning abortion?

Very seldom does anyone talk about their experience, even though claims are made that this is an accepted practice.

This is the first time that I am addressing this publicly because it is a very personal experience.

I discovered healing when I came across literature put out by a religious organization that suggested naming my deceased infant.

I have carried her name in my heart for years. On Saturday, March 2, we will gather to put the names of our children on the crosses in Mr. Vanderkooi’s field. This is an opportunity to acknowledge the grief that many of us have carried for years.

Sometimes it is expressed in anger and pain; that is a normal part of grieving. There are a range of emotions to work through. When we do this we have the freedom to move on and even enjoy the lives we have been given.

Every person who has suffered loss due to abortion – dads, moms, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends – are welcome to come and honour the memory of your loved ones.

We will provide a safe space for you to express your voice whatever way seems best to you. You are welcome to come and place the name of your infant on a cross.

For more information go to http://tinyurl.com/bqefpu2

Thank you to (Abbotsford Right to Life Society) and Mr. Vanderkooi for supporting us in our expression on this very important issue.

Aeriol Alderking, Abbotsford