Recently, a video circulating the internet exemplified this as two women with opposing views on abortion faced off. The white, leftist woman compared pro-lifers to those who supported slavery, while the woman of color, who was also pro-life, called out the problematic comparison.
The video speaks for itself, highlighting the power of body language and facial expressions in moments like these. The pro-lifer’s face tells it all as she listens to the white leftist woman speak. After, she takes the floor to deliver a powerful blow, silencing the woman who tried to misuse Black women’s struggles as a shield to protect abortion rights.
In our society, it is troubling to see anyone use someone else’s pain as a support for their own beliefs. As the video shows, the woman of color was not going to stand for it. Her response was worth the watch, as she gave a schooling to the white leftist woman in front of a crowd of people.
The white leftist women who use Black women to advance their pro-abortion arguments are doing a disservice to the lasting legacy of Black women’s struggles. They do not honor the sacrifices of Black women who fought for basic human rights. Using Black women’s names and histories as ammunition in a flawed argument only perpetuates the idea that Black women are the property of the collective political left.
Pro-lifers are often labeled as right-wing fanatics who want to control the lives of others, but responsible dialogue is entirely feasible between opposing sides. Both sides should be able to present their arguments thoughtfully and listen to the other’s opinion in return. The pro-life woman in the video serves as a good example of how to calmly and assertively refute a flawed argument.
In conclusion, it’s important to recognize that using Black women’s histories and struggles as a platform to promote a political agenda is an offensive and inappropriate act. We must honor those who fought for progress and use intelligent discourse to create meaningful change.
