I wanted to share with you the remarks I was honored to give as I presented Louisiana State Senators Katrina Jackson & Regina Barrow with Americans United for Life’s, “Defender of Life Award”. These are two remarkable women will continue to change the world.
“During his inaugural address in 1961, John F. Kennedy, the newly elected president and standard bearer for the Democratic Party, stood before the nation and proclaimed, ‘The same revolutionary beliefs for which our forebears fought are still at issue around the globe–the belief that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state but from the hand of God.’ Protecting those fundamental human rights has been a vital part of the work of Senator Katrina Jackson and Senator Regina Barrow.
These two inspirational women stand out not only for their ambitious and successful advocacy fighting for the women of Louisiana to receive the standard of health care that they deserve, but also that they are fighting back against the abuses of the abortion industry. Unfortunately, in 2020 many members of our nation’s largest political party are hesitant to call out the abortion industry for fear of backlash from party bosses.
If that is the norm, then Senators Jackson and Barrow are fearless.
They did the near impossible. They took their desire to protect Louisiana women from an idea, to a bill, to a law passed overwhelmingly and with a bi-partisan majorities, all the way to the United States Supreme Court. While the Court did not rule exactly how we would have liked, as we now know, the decision in June Medical Services has turned out to be a win for life, and a win for women across the nation. Because of June Medical, states now have a more significant opportunity to protect women and protect life in their states than they have had in decades. The Chief Justice’s controlling opinion displayed a standard of review for these types of community protections that opens the door for more states to pass protective laws, and more courts to approve them. It is because of the ceaseless advocacy of Katrina Jackson and Regina Barrow that women and children across the country will have a better shot at life and real medical care.
When asked to describe the virtues of a leader, General Douglas Mcarthur said, ‘A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.’ Those are the Virtues of Senators Jackson and Barrow.
Even when it looks like the cards are stacked against them. Even when national party leaders would rather they stay silent. Even when It would just be easier politically to focus their efforts elsewhere, these brave women choose to defend life. Over and again, they take the stand for life.
We thank you both for your leadership, and proudly present to you, Americans United for Life, ‘Defender Of Life’ award.”
