To me the most important value is Individual autonomy, the freedom to make decisions about one’s own life. This is fundamental to personal dignity and equality. As a woman, this principle resonates deeply because autonomy forms the foundation of our ability to live freely, to make choices about our bodies, and to resist societal constraints that have historically sought to limit us. Among the Eight Values of Free Expression, none is more vital than individual autonomy to me.It is not just about self-expression but also about self-determination—the core of human agency. Additionally, it provides safety in cases of sexual crime, let alone issues during a normal, wanted pregnancy.
Throughout history, women have fought for the right to control their own bodies and destinies. The fight for reproductive rights exemplifies this struggle. A landmark case, Roe v. Wade, granted women the right to choose abortion in 1973, affirming their autonomy over reproductive decisions. Even though this wasn't an abortion case, but a case of privacy, it still provided protection and aid. However, in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization in 2022, the overturning of Roe was a direct assault on that autonomy. This decision allowed states to restrict or ban abortion, stripping away the fundamental freedom of choice. The consequences have been devastating for countless women, particularly those from marginalized communities, who now face life-threatening risks or are forced to travel long distances to seek care. What is even scarier is that our new vice president wants to TRACK pregnancies to make sure women don’t cross state lines to get an abortion. I mean seriously? WHY DOES THIS MATTER WE HAVE WAY MORE PRESSING ISSUES!!!!! There have been COUNTLESS stories of women who have been denied abortions in life threatening cases, some being left so damaged that they can no longer have children…some even resulting in death. Is this better? In my opinion, if you’re so “pro-life” what about the struggling or dying mother?
The importance of individual autonomy becomes even clearer to me when I reflect on the hypocrisy surrounding COVID-19 and the vaccine debate. Many individuals who opposed vaccines during the pandemic claimed their personal freedoms were being violated. MOSTLY REPUBLICAN. "My body, my choice," they argued, resisting what they perceived as government overreach. Yet, these are the same people supporting abortion bans, dictating what women can and cannot do with their own bodies.
The refusal to recognize women’s right to bodily autonomy is a loud and disappointing reminder that autonomy is not equally respected. In my opinion, if you think unwanted pregnancies shouldn't be aborted, why shouldn't men just get vasectomies? I mean they can have them reversed can’t they? The freedom to choose whether or not to carry a pregnancy is as personal and profound as the decision to refuse a vaccine. Both hinge on the same principle: the right of individuals to control their bodies without interference. Yet, the burden of restricted autonomy disproportionately falls on women, demonstrating the ongoing struggle for gender equality in matters of free expression and personal agency.
Here are some links related to the topics I have brought up
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jan/23/abortion-homicide-bills?utm_source=chatgpt.com
No comments:
Post a Comment