Petition to get abortion legalization initiative on Missouri ballot gaining traction in face of opposition

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – Mallory Schwarz with Missourians for Constitutional Freedom said the coalition’s petition to get an abortion legalization initiative on the Missouri ballot is off to a fast start.

“This is our fundamental right to reproductive freedom, and we are seeing the overwhelming enthusiasm from people across the state who agree,” she said. 

The petition needs to gather about 175,000 signatures by May 5. Schwarz said it has already garnered thousands of signatures. 

“What this campaign is really about is Missourians rights to vote for their reproductive freedom despite politicians’ attempts to deny those rights,” Schwarz said.

This comes as pro-life advocates speak out.

Cape Girardeau resident Christine Ostendorf has long endorsed pro-life legislation.  

“I think there is such an importance in making sure the dignity of life is being upheld,” Ostendorf said.

And while she said abortion is a divisive issue, she encourages everyone, no matter their opinion, to see abortion as more than just a political matter. 

“Charity is key,” she said. “We need to treat each other with so much respect and dignity because nobody likes to be yelled at and belittled, and so the more charity and love and respect we have, it’s important to be able to have the conversation.” 

Schwarz agreed, saying that abortion is more about people than politics. 

“This campaign gives a lot of people permission to talk about something that they may have thought was a tough or difficult issue, but really is just a question of who should be making decisions for your family,” she said.