A Question of Choice

I had the honor of taking a leadership class with Sarah Weddington where this book was used as a main text. The story of this accomplished woman bears testament to the changes fought for and won by women in the second wave of feminsim, both in the state of Texas and in the Nation. Prior to reading this book, I knew that Roe vs. Wade originated in Texas, but I never actually understood how much things changed for women of my generation. Both women and men alike will marvel at the antiquated norms Weddington faced as a young woman and how she ultimately overcame them. For all of the frustrations I presently voice about the status of women in the world, I am not at all certain I would have her personal courage when faced with such overwhelming sexism. As a Texas state legislator, she was responsible for an equal credit act, a rape reform bill (co-sponsored with another new female representative named Kathryn Bailey) and the state's Equal Rights Amendment. To realize that one woman had accomplished all of this is simply amazing and inspiring. Although there is not as much White House era musings as I would have prefered, the fact that she got in when few presidents of either party appointed large numbers of women is really signifigant. Not satified with her own personal triumph, she then worked to ensure that future generations would not have the same hardship. Working alongside Midge Constanoza, Weddington used her position to encourage more women to get involved in policymaking. Also heartening is Weddington's inclusion of steps to protect reproductive choice at the book's end.Unlike some other books on reproductive rights, the message comes in loud and clear: Defend choice every day and without compromise. The battles may be long and weary, but the nation cannot afford to abandon the 30 year old (at least in spirit) promise of women's bodily autonomy. Even though the original version of the book was released during the 1992 elections, it is a message that bears repeating in every presidential campaign. Vote pro-choice and vote often to protect women's right to life.

This outstanding book offers an excellent perspective into the life of one of America's most important female attorneys. Regardless of one's political views on abortion, "pro-life" and "pro-choice" advocates alike can agree that Sara Weddington's critical role in this monumental turning point in U.S. abortion rights history serves as an important lesson on the development and evolution of leadership roles for, and the civil rights of, women. This book is for men just as much as it is for women. Men will gain an invaluable insight into their counterparts by adding significantly to their understanding of women. This book is a "must read" for any person of any political persuasion who wishes to add to their comprehension of the question of abortion, the rights of women, and the evolution of the leadership roles assumed by women.

Weddington's piece is not just about the culmination of Roe vs. Wade and beyond, but a heartfelt autobiography that helps readers understand and appreciate the challenges of women in the that time period. Readers can gain leadership secrets from the experiences of Weddington from Roe to her work in the White House.As a young woman, it helped me understand how far women have come in the past century and be more thankful of women leaders, like Sarah Weddington.