Pro-life forum takes non-religious tact

In the cozy environment of the Newman Center's basement, a group of 25 gathered last night to discuss the sensitive issue of abortion -- from a pro-life perspective. Helen Alvare, national spokesperson on abortion for the American Catholic Bishops, spoke last night about "how to articulate a pro-life stance in a politically correct environment." Recently chosen by Time magazine as one of the top 50 leaders in America under the age of 40, Alvare focused solely on the facts, instead of presenting religious arguments on the issue -- giving her speech universal appeal. Demographically, the pro-life stance is more often than not advocated by the "grass root and relatively less educated," Alvare noted. She explained that those groups are sometimes drowned out by pro-choice advocates, who are usually more privileged, educated and vocal. She extended this line of reasoning to universities, in particular Ivy League schools where most students are economically privileged. Alvare also attempted to clear up what she saw as misconceptions regarding the Catholic Church, adding that the institution believes abortion is against natural law, since God did not "create a chaotic world." She explained that people have to give human life respect. Arguing that the issue is important for other religions besides Catholicism, Alvare said it is ironic to help the sick, but not sustain life for other human beings. In response to the pro-choice stance, Alvare asked the question "choice to do what?" She added that it has never occurred to many people that a noun is missing from the "pro-choice" phrase. "Freedom to choose is a right thing but there are choices that are definitely wrong," Alvare said. She added that she was very pleased with how educated the audience was. Wharton junior Brian Sheth, Newman Council president, said he hoped Alvare sparked some new viewpoints in the issue, in particular at the University, where students generally believe that "people have no rights to tell other people what to do with their bodies." Sheth added that he was "impressed and overwhelmed" by Alvare's speech. "She's an articulate speaker," he said. "She was very comfortable with the environment." Nursing sophomore Catherine Hardy said she was disappointed with the University's environment as well, calling it politically correct. She said that in daily life, very few people are able to formulate and articulate positions in moral issues without the influence of their peers. She added that the decrease of "political and moral implicit" discussions on campus is disappointing. Hardy said she is starting a campus pro-life group named "Penn Right to Life," with its first meeting to be held next week.