“It’s a woman’s issue.”
“My body, my choice.”
“No woman can call herself free who does not own and control her own body.”
“Pro-choice, the radical idea that women are people.”
These are just some slogans found or chanted at pro-choice demonstrations.
Save the Storks believes that all lives matter in the conversation of life. The woman, the man and the child all are valuable and deserve love and compassion. An unexpected pregnancy can create very real stress, fear and uncertainty, which is why we want to be a voice of comfort and support.
Recently Save the Storks decided to partner with international organizations who have the same mission as we do. They are revolutionizing the meaning of pro-life in areas of Asia and Africa by caring for women in oppressive and vulnerable situations. These ministries inspire us and we believe they will inspire you as well. We are purposely vague regarding the identity of some individuals and organizations in order to protect them and their international relationships. We will be sharing stories from them monthly so stay tuned!
As Americans fight for their right to destroy life, women overseas are fighting for their right to preserve it. Indeed, in some Asian countries, “pro-choice” would mean the right of a woman, not to abort, but to give birth to her baby, especially if that baby is a second daughter. In some countries in Asia, abortion is far more prevalent than it is here. In fact, one Asian nation has 23 abortions for every one abortion in the United States. Many of these abortions are forced by family members who want a boy, due to culturally ingrained son preference. Hundreds of millions of baby girls have been aborted or abandoned after birth to die in the elements simply because the family wants a boy. This gendercide directly links to the increase in human trafficking as nations have selectively aborted or abandoned baby girls — future women.
Our hearts break to hear the turmoil of dear fellow humans who cannot stop what is being done to them. For this reason, Save the Storks partners with other organizations who are actively helping women in these countries.
What can be done to help those who are not free to keep their children?
Asia seems far away and their abortion statistics seem so massive — it feels impossible to make a difference. But Save the Storks is supporting an organization that has boots on the ground. They are saving one life at a time and slowly changing cultural preconceptions that elevate the value of boys over girls. Here’s one story to show the kind of work they do.
*Yuna’s mother had just one month left in her pregnancy when she found out the gender of her child. A three-year-old sister was at home which meant that Yuna would be a despised second daughter. “It’s a girl” the doctor said, and the room went quiet. In place of joy there was regret, fear, and sadness. Upon hearing the news, the extended family started to pressure Yuna’s mother to abort. She did not want to abort her eight-month old unborn baby but did not know what to do. It seemed like abortion was the only option but she loved the child she was carrying.
In the midst of turmoil and fear, an organization that helps mothers keep their baby girls learned about Yuna’s family and gave them hope. A fieldworker approached Yuna’s mom, gave her much-needed encouragement, and connected her with resources that made it possible for them to keep their baby girl. Their family received a monthly stipend for a year. This financial support made the difference in helping Yuna’s mom fight the cultural tide of son-preference and give her beautiful daughter a chance to live.
*Name changed to protect the identity of this precious child and her family
Both in America and overseas, we are helping save lives and change culture one family at a time. We are honored to partner with those who are serving internationally with the same purpose of supporting moms and babies. Join us in praying for the needs of the world. Together we can make a difference.
If you would like to help the work done in Asia and Africa, donate HERE. All contributions through this blog will be split evenly to support our international partners as an additional gift beyond what Save the Storks already gives. Please consider supporting those who are saving lives of moms and babies internationally. The need is great.
