Dear Editor,
On Feb. 13, NDSU Spectrum published an article entitled “Planned Parenthood: A Fight for Rights”. This article, written by Ms. Cierra Steffensen, contained a number of questionable assertions that need to be addressed. Ms. Steffensen expressed her concern that “defunding” Planned Parenthood would result in the loss of affordable healthcare services for both men and women. Our group, NDSU Collegians for Life, would like to address this concern of Ms. Steffensen.
As Ms. Steffensen made known within her article, a common concern and misconception regarding the defunding of Planned Parenthood is that this act would deprive women of basic healthcare. However, if one examines the actual text of the H.R. 354 (accessible at https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/354/text), it becomes clear, “All funds that are no longer available to Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Inc. and its affiliates and clinics pursuant to this Act will continue to be made available to other eligible entities to provide women’s health care services.” In other words, all the money that would have previously been directed towards Planned Parenthood will instead be given to other clinics that provide care to women. One such clinic in the Fargo/Moorhead area is FirstChoice Clinic. Unlike Planned Parenthood, FirstChoice is a non-profit health center that offers all of its services for free. They provide pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasound, pregnancy options information, prenatal/parenting education classes, community resources/referrals, post abortion recovery resources/referrals, and fertility care education/referrals, all conducted by licensed professionals. All of this information can be accessed at their website: www.firstchoiceclinic.com.
In her letter, Ms. Steffensen wrote, “Yes, safe and affordable abortions are offered. In reality, though, they (Planned Parenthood) offer a plethora of services. For example, you can go get tested. Because let’s be honest here. Sex is had, mistakes are made and safety is important.” In fact, the “plethora of services” offered by Planned Parenthood are easily accessed elsewhere. As mentioned above, FirstChoice Clinic offers a variety of services that are completely free and confidential. Another resource available to NDSU students is the Student Health Service, located in the Wallman Wellness Center. According to the NDSU website, they offer many reproductive health services, including STI testing and HIV testing and counseling. Simply put, Planned Parenthood is not necessary for anyone’s health care.
If any students at NDSU are pregnant, parenting or know someone who is, Collegians for Life is here to help! We would be happy to help you get in contact with trained professionals who can provide you with medical care, as well as provide you with resources about parenthood and/or adoption. You are welcome to contact us by messaging our Facebook page (NDSU Collegians for Life), sending us a DM on Twitter (@ndsuforlife),or by e-mailing us at ndsucollegiansforlife@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
NDSU Collegians for Life
Ned O’Sullivan | President | Finance/Philosophy | 612.219.2838
Lateasha Lechler | Vice President | Family and Consumer Science Edu.| 701.218.0006
Emma Twedt | Secretary | Biological Sciences Edu. | 701.793.3087
Nathan Marcotte | Public Relations | Computer Engineering | 701.595.4787
Kaylyn Herold | Public Relations | Exercise Science | 701.471.6899