A Rapist's Parental Rights

I'll bet you're thinking, 'what parental rights'? How could someone who perpetuates the heinous crime of rape have rights to anything? Sadly, in this troubled world of ours, the 'rest of the story' does more than make you shake your head in disbelief. As someone who was victim of this crime- and a resulting pregnancy - I can't even imagine the horror of having the very core of your being taken from you and then being forced into a legal battle with the perpetrator and his perverted idea of 'paternity'. Yet, in 31 states, that's exactly what happens. From the website of 31 States:

It is estimated that there are between 25,000 and 32,000 rape-related pregnancies annually in the United States. - (HR 2772)

Unbelievably, 31 states allow the criminal to pursue his victim and her innocent child in an attempt to remain forever in their lives. This is simply unconscionable!

Through brave souls who have fought this battle, both on their own behalf or on the behalf of others, a feature length documentary, 31 States, is planned for release during the summer of 2014. The website tells us, "31 States is the story of women across America who have been raped, conceived from that rape, gave birth and then had to fight their rapist in court for custody of their rape conceived child. In addition to the personal stories, this film explores the lack of legal protection afforded to these women in 31 States".

In traveling across the nation for interviews with those best equipped to detail this travesty, they hope to create awareness of this repugnant situation and encourage the public to work toward real change. That's where you and I come in. Did you know about this horrendous miscarriage of justice? I didn't. If you, like me, are scandalized by the notion, please share this post and plan to attend the documentary when it comes out. Tell your friends, to stay abreast of relevant news, and most importantly - pray for these women and the children they so unselfishly chose to bear and protect.