In Wake of Gov. McDonnell’s Mandatory Ultrasound Bill, Virginia NOW Calls for Defeat of Sexist Politicians

In Wake of Gov. McDonnell’s Mandatory Ultrasound Bill, Virginia NOW Calls for Defeat of Sexist Politicians
Statement of Virginia Chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) President Diana Egozcue and Legislative Vice-President Marjorie Signer
March 7, 2012
Information: vanowpresident@hotmail.com

Governor McDonnell’s condescending statement justifying his signing the mandatory ultrasound bill (HB 462) insults both women and medical professionals. It says, in effect, women are too stupid to think for themselves about having an abortion. If ultrasounds have to be mandated for “informed consent,” it means that doctors aren’t competent enough to order an ultrasound when needed and are derelict in fully informing women about the procedure.

The fact that the bill’s sponsors did not know it would require a vaginal probe – which many called state-mandated rape—shows their complete lack of sincerity, not to mention ignorance about what they were doing. It was a political move from the start, to rally their base. Their concern for women’s health and informed consent was mere window-dressing.

Until we get rid of every vestige of sexism and defeat every sexist politician, legislation like the mandatory ultrasound bill will continue to be passed. What we need to do is clear: defeat elected officials who play politics with women’s bodies and health.

Petersburg Mayor Apologizes for Comments Excusing Domestic Violence

On February 27, Virginia NOW issued a statement demanding that Petersburg Mayor Brian Moore apologize for comments excusing domestic violence. He had said that the City manager – accused of assault by his wife – should be forgiven for the alleged assault because the city needed his services and because, in effect,” “these things happen.” Mayor Moore has issued an apology, saying he sincerely regrets “that my words were interpreted as offensive and not sensitive” and that he sincerely apologizes “for not taking the opportunity to say that any form of violence is wrong.” The Petersburg Council voted to establish an advisory committee on interpersonal violence, with James House Intervention/Prevention Services. James House provides comprehensive, cost-free services for people who have been affected by sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking and technical support and training for allied service professionals, schools, houses of worship, law enforcement and community groups at no cost.
Please check out its website at http://www.thejameshouse.org/

The February 27 statement of VA NOW President Diana Egozcue is below.