Democratic National Convention

Delegates attending the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., unveiled a revised platform on Monday — one which seeks to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act and opposes all limitations on abortion. The vote to approve it took place on Tuesday night. 

According to the platform, “The Democratic Party strongly and unequivocally supports Roe v. Wade and a woman’s right to make decisions regarding her pregnancy, including a safe and legal abortion, regardless of ability to pay. We oppose any and all efforts to weaken or undermine that right." For more information you can access and read the 2012 Democratic Party Platform here.  One report states, "President Obama and Democrats will continue to stand up to Republican efforts to defund Planned Parenthood health centers. The Affordable Care Act ensures that women have access to contraception in their health insurance plans, and the President has respected the principle of religious liberty. Democrats support evidence-based and age-appropriate sex education.”  See the full article by Karla Dial at http://www.citizenlink.com/2012/09/04/democrats-reveal-platform/. Access my scholarship on the Social Science Research Network (SSRN) at http://ssrn.com/author=183817

Despite the Democratic delegates' firm commitment to abortion rights, Cardinal Dolan in his closing prayer at the Democratic National Convention, prayed for the unborn, saying, “Thus do we praise you for the gift of life. Grant us the courage to defend it, life, without which no other rights are secure. We ask your benediction on those waiting to be born, that they may be welcomed and protected. Strengthen our sick and our elders waiting to see your holy face at life’s end, that they may be accompanied by true compassion and cherished with the dignity due those who are infirm and fragile.”

A great deal of media discussion was generated by a three-time platform vote involving support for various religious matters and terms, but the matters that affect families are equally vital to the foundation of the platform.  Family restoration will happen with strong support for marriages, women, and children.