Editor, Gazette-Journal:
As a parent of a 10-year-old daughter, I feel the weight of responsibility God has placed on us to protect and guide the next generation. That’s why Virginia’s proposed “Right to Reproductive Freedom” amendment (HJ1/SJ247) should concern all of us.
If passed, this amendment would make abortion a constitutional right in our state—removing vital safeguards that protect women and parental rights. It would allow minors to seek abortions or even sterilization procedures without their parents’ consent or notification and opens the door for abortions up until birth for nearly any reason, undermining long-standing health and safety protections.
We’ve already seen the consequences of leaving parents out. In August, Fairfax County Public Schools launched an investigation after reports that a school social worker helped multiple minors obtain abortions without informing their parents. Under this amendment, actions like these would become entirely legal.
This isn’t about politics—it’s about family, community, and responsibility. As a mother, I want to be involved in decisions that affect my child’s life. Every parent deserves that right. As a community, we must stand together to protect our daughters, and as people of faith, we are called to “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed” (Proverbs 31:8).
Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade, these decisions now rest in our states — and that means our votes matter more than ever. Local elections often see the fewest voters, yet they shape laws in the most personal ways.
Do your research. Know which candidates support parental rights and which put our children at risk. Local elections shape laws that directly affect our families.
Let’s show up. Let’s pray. And let’s use our voices to protect those who have none—including our daughters, and all the young girls in our community.
Sandra Pirao
Dutton, Va.