Battle in Brazil

Earlier this month Brazil had reason talk about reproductive rights. A nine year old girl was given access to a healthy abortion following alleged sexual violence by her stepfather. Shortly after, a local Catholic Archbishop, Jose Cardoso Sobrinho, excommunicated the doctors and mother involved in this tragic circumstance.
The Catholic Church seems to be divided on the issue. Some Vatican officials stating the excommunication was justified, while their biotech officials stated it was unmerited because the doctors acted in the interest of the girls’ health.
The medical realities were that this pregnancy would have put the young girl’s health at risk and although abortion is almost always illegal in Brazil there are exception for rape and health.
A majority of Brazilians agree with the criminality of abortion, but there is a movement of to promote reproductive health in the country. Abortion causes thousands of maternal deaths and even more hospitalizations each year in Brazil. Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Brazil’s president, has slowly been trying to increase the dialogue on the issue of reproductive rights although he has met much resistance to the conversation. The government also works to provide options so abortion is not necessary, such as dispenses contraceptives during Carnival. Again, the Catholic Church did not approve. However, not all Catholics are so closed minded. Catholics for Choice are one group that is actively fighting for the women of Brazil to have freedom in their sexual and reproductive decisions.

Brazil is a beautiful country and with passion oozing out of its people and environment. If any country can handle this debate and fight for women’s right, it is Brazil. It will be fascinating to see what happens next.