battle rages still rages on

By JENNY BENNETT

Staff Writer

Jan. 23, 2001 10 PM

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the contraversial Roe v. Wade ruling.

Many people still do not agree with the ruling and think that it should be overturned, making abortion illegal. Norma McCorvey, known as "Jane Roe," is, ironically, an opponent of Roe v. Wade.

McCorvey is now an anti-abortion activist, after a life-changing experience that occurred when she converted to Christianity several years ago, according to CNN.

McCorvey never did have an abortion, and wound up giving up the child up for adoption after she had fought so hard for her right to have an abortion in the beginning.

However, there are still many people that feel it’s a woman’s decision what she should do with her body, and will fight as hard as the Pro-Life activists to keep their right to do what they want with their body and unborn child.

Troy residents seem to side largely with Roe’s new way of thinking.

Misty Manac does not agree with Roe v. Wade’s ruling.

"I don’t agree with abortion unless you are raped or if the baby is going to die, or other extreme circumstances," said Manac. "I think it should be illegal because it is basically murder. You could at least have the baby and give it up for adoption if you don’t want it."

Charlie Casteel agrees with Misty’s idea about adoption.

"I believe that every child should have a chance at life," said Casteel. "There are only a few exceptions – some being the mothers’ and fetus’ physical health, not mental, and the case of rape victims. A woman shouldn’t have to be reminded of the rape for every day for 9 months, and even possibly longer. Other than those two exceptions, I am a total believer in adoption," she said. "There are many people that cannot have children and should get a chance at parenthood and loving a needed child."

Randy Wortz thinks that the Roe v. Wade ruling should be overturned.

"I think it should be overturned because of my Christian values and I think it is unethical," said Wortz. "I think what Bush has already done is a good step in a positive note."

President George W. Bush has already proposed that aid to foreign countries that is used to promote abortion be halted after Clinton ended the policy when he was elected eight years ago.

Heather Booth is undecided on the issue.

"I agree with both sides," said Booth. "I agree that the woman should have a right to choose, but I also think it’s murder, so I’m kind of in the middle."

To register your opinion online on the overturn of Roe v. Wade, go to www.troymessenger.com.