Please watch the PBS FRONTLINE documentary, The Abortion Divide (2019). The film explores the fight over abortion, told through the stories of women
struggling with unplanned pregnancies. Drawing on a landmark FRONTLINE film from the 1980s, the documentary takes a look at both sides of the abortion
divide in a community still embroiled in the conflict. Now, 36 years later, FRONTLINE returns to Pennsylvania to look at both sides of the abortion debate in
the Abortion Divide. From producers Mark Obenhaus and Elizabeth Leiter, this film offers a window into the sometimes difficult and deeply personal choices
women face with unplanned pregnancies — and examines the steadfast belief of the anti-abortion community that there should be no choice at all.
Trigger Warning! The personal stories in this documentary include experiences that result from severe social and racial injustices and include connections to
violence and abuse that can be triggering. I struggle with how to more explicitly state the injustices addressed in the film, with a fear of reducing and/or
minimizing these experiences. When we experience triggers, they are often unpredictable and individually specific. It is impossible to account for all since
triggers by their nature are not particularly rational or universally foreseeable. So, it is crucial that you practice self-care! You should never have to watch or
engage with any content that is triggering.
Once you feel ready, please write a reflection in which you respond to the questions below. To support your writing, please be sure to make at least two
explicit references to the movie.
What are your general impressions of the film?
Name one person or event in the film that you found interesting.
What are your thoughts about issues that surround access to abortion?
Here in CA, access to abortion has been secured in our State constitution, what are your thoughts about this?
What is your stance on abortion?
What influences your stance and reasoning on the issue?
Any additional thoughts or comments?
The reflection should be about 300-500 words, please state the word count at the top of your paper.
https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/film/the-abortion-divide/