There has been a wide range of discussion from individuals across the political spectrum on the subject of Planned Parenthood’s policy regarding the sale of body parts from aborted fetuses. Some feel there is no problem with the procedure as it is providing tissue for research. However, if you have not taken the time to view the series of videos on this subject I encourage you to do so. When you view these interviews with the various officials from Planned Parenthood and the casual and callous manner of their demeanor, while discussing the financial arrangements of determining the availability, condition, and price levels for the body parts of these aborted babies, I believe you will share my feeling that it is barbaric.

There have been five of these videos to date beginning with the official discussing the program for the sale of body parts. However, the last one is particularly chilling as the discussion was with the Director of Research for the Gulf Coast about the procedure of providing bodies of the babies without any separation of body parts. The discussion was about the ability of keeping the body of the baby intact to be able to sell the wanted parts of mostly preferably of those 18 to 22 weeks term (5 1/2 months). Higher prices would be negotiated for certain specimens. After the original discussion with this individual, the presumed buyers were given a tour of the facilities and there was discussion with one of the participants that assisted in the abortion. It was explained that the organs really came out well. Next, they were shown a large glass tray with the bloody parts spread out for display. Various parts were carefully picked up and shown for completeness. In watching this, I truly felt as if this video was actually part of a butcher shop. How any individual could be a part of this boggles my mind. This was not in any way, shape, or form a procedure to provide tissue for research, but a negotiation for the sale of body parts.

Recently an employee of the Planned Parenthood clinic where the last video was made confirmed and added disturbing additional information on the financial incentives for selling baby parts at the clinic.

With these thoughts and vivid pictures in mind, I encourage all to contact your Senators and Representatives in Congress and tell them to support unequivocally the defunding of Planned Parenthood. Our tax dollars have no business supporting this horrendous activity. In a recent vote to bring the issue to the floor, Sen. King voted against the defunding and Rep. Pingree has voiced support against defunding Planned Parenthood. In my opinion, regardless of which side of the political aisle you are from should not determine whether you provide future support for these heinous activities.

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Another View, a Maine Press Association award-winning column, is written on a rotating basis by a member of a group of Midcoast citizens that meet to discuss issues they think are of public interest.