The early feminist movement, originating in the 19th century, was largely pro-life in its stance on abortion. Pioneers like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, who fought for women’s suffrage and equality, viewed abortion as a violation of both women’s rights and the sanctity of life. They believed that true empowerment for women came through social reform that uplifted women from oppression rather than advocating for the termination of pregnancies. In their writings, they condemned the practice of abortion, which they saw as a product of the broader societal mistreatment of women, often forced into it by men or economic circumstances. The early feminists argued that rather than promoting abortion, society should address the underlying issues of poverty, lack of education, and the lack of legal protections for women, which often led them to seek abortions.
These early feminists believed that both the unborn child and the mother deserved protection and care. Stanton, for instance, referred to abortion as a form of “infanticide,” viewing it as contrary to the ideals of equality and justice they were fighting for. Their advocacy was not just about giving women a voice in political and social matters but also about promoting a culture of life and responsibility. For them, pro-life values were consistent with their broader goals of improving the welfare and dignity of all human beings, particularly those most vulnerable, including unborn children. Their legacy reflects a more complex understanding of women’s rights, in which the well-being of both mother and child was interconnected. For further reading, you can explore articles from Feminists for Life and SBA Pro-Life America to dive deeper into the pro-life stances of early feminists:
- Feminists for Life – First Wave Feminists
- SBA Pro-Life America – Susan B. Anthony: Pro-Life Feminist
- Feminists for Life – Why I Am a Feminist for Life