I can't speak for the Disability Rights Movement, at least in Britain, for
we are still in the process of consulting our member groups over a wide
range of issues to do with the new genetics. However, in our discussion
document (http://www.bcodp.org.uk/general/genetics.html) one of the
proposed position points is as follows:
. "We unequivocally support women's right to choose with respect to
their pregnancies, for such decisions are made in circumstances unique to
each person. However, women must also feel able to continue with a
pregnancy, secure in the knowledge that they will be bringing a child into
a society which does not discriminate against disabled people. This is
because we reject the current framework of prejudice against and fear of
disabled people, which the new genetics has considerably exacerbated, and
which at the moment works such a powerfully negative influence on women's
choice."
I stress again, this is a proposed, not an accepted statement from the
BCODP. For a somewhat fuller discussion of this particular issue I refer
you to the document.
>But isn't the Disability Rights Movement's attitude towards the abortion
>of disabled children also Utilitarian? Aren't they saying that the
>occasional parent who doesn't want to give birth to a disabled child for
>whatever reason must be forced to, for the greater good of the majority
>of people with disabilities?
>
>
>Judy
Dr. Bill Albert
Chair
International Sub Committee
British Council of Disabled People
(Home address)
The White House
Marionville Road
St.Clements Hill
Norwich, NR3 4DD
UK
Phone 01603 402003 011 44 1603 402003
Fax 01603 423432 011 44 1603 423432
e-mail W. [log in to unmask]
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