[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 40 (Tuesday, April 8, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E585-E586]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 PARTIAL-BIRTH ABORTION BAN ACT OF 1997

                                 ______
                                 


                               Speech of

                        HON. ROBERT A. UNDERWOOD

                                of guam

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 20, 1997

  Mr. UNDERWOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the partial-
birth abortion ban legislation which would outlaw gruesome abortion 
procedures. I sponsored this legislation because it would protect the 
sanctity of life and prevent the cruel and inhumane killing of unborn 
children. A living fetus is viable and we should respect its humanity.
  We know all too well the arguments on both sides of this important 
issue. Some present legal or constitutional issues. Some cite the lack 
of money or adequate resources to support the child. Some women may 
cite social or psychological problems which hinder their ability to go 
to full term on their pregnancy. But no matter what the arguments or 
reasons cited, the partial-birth abortion procedure is brutal and 
senseless and should never be allowed.
  As a nation, we have the fortitude to find humane ways to deal with 
whatever difficulties or burdens which cause women to resort to 
partial-birth abortions. But we should not, as a nation, sanction this 
procedure in any way, shape, or form.

[[Page E586]]

  For me personally, and for the people of Guam whom I represent, the 
worth of children in our culture is a cornerstone in sustaining family 
values. For us, abortions is never an option; we oppose abortion 
because it devalues life and destroys our concept of family 
preservation. For us, the issues are that we continue to protect our 
children, stop the assault against the innocent unborn, and continue to 
believe that life is a precious gift from God.
  When we stand up for the unborn, we help to fortify our culture, our 
heritage, and our society. I join my colleagues in supporting this very 
important legislation.

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