Susan Davis: “I rise today to oppose the global gag rule. It has been stated before, but it bears repeating: the global gag rule…”

“I rise today to oppose the global gag rule. It has been stated before, but it bears repeating: the global gag rule imposes restrictions on foreign organizations that would be illegal and unacceptable in our own country. In this country, we value our freedom of speech, and we value the sanctity of our doctor-patient relationships. The global gag rule prevents foreign, nongovernmental organizations from participating in public policy debates regarding the right to choose. Can any of us imagine if Congress passed a law that silenced the Christian Coalition or Planned Parenthood? The American public would not stand for such a blatant violation of the freedom of speech. Like American groups, foreign organizations should have the right to advocate for their cause. Perhaps, Mr. Chairman, however, the most egregious impact of the global gag rule is that it violates the sanctity of the doctor-patient relationship. We should not be making decisions about personal, private health care decisions. It is absolutely critical that women are able to discuss their health care concerns with their doctors. So in turn, doctors need to be able to answer all of their questions and discuss every available health care option. If Congress votes to limit what doctors can say to their patients, we will jeopardize the health of women around the world. The time has come to stand up for democracy and patients' rights. I urge all of my colleagues to vote to repeal the global gag rule today.”