Keeping Silent on Abortion

If Ellen Snortland would unclench her teeth (“When Only Clenched Teeth Will Do,” Commentary, Sept. 22) and be willing to discuss her differences with those who hold pro-life views, she would see they are not the hatemongers she loves to rail against. We do not “inculcate our children with inflammatory religious views,” but rather explain to them that while a free society must be willing to accept differing views, it is the duty of responsible citizens to work to change laws and even views if they believe them to be morally wrong and harmful to others. We also tell them that true freedom for women cannot be purchased with the lives of their unborn children.

Snortland claims to be frightened that pro-life people want “everyone to believe as they do.” I found it interesting that she chose to compare the current turmoil over abortion with the Civil War. Those who fought the evils of slavery were willing to pay with their lives in order to make sure the entire country believed as they did. I suppose Snortland would accuse them of forcing their views on others.

LINDA SNIDER

Seal Beach