Zoe Lofgren: “In conclusion of this debate, I am hopeful that this Lofgren-Conyers substitute is in fact adopted by this body. Now…”

“In conclusion of this debate, I am hopeful that this Lofgren-Conyers substitute is in fact adopted by this body. Now, there are some who argue that up to a life sentence is too harsh for the perpetrator of violence on a woman who would then miscarry, but I know that that is not the case. When one miscarries and loses a wanted opportunity to become a mother, that is something you remember your whole life. That is something that is a grievous harm and a terrible blow. It seems to me that someone who would perpetrate that violence and that harm on a woman ought to face that kind of harsh penalty. So I urge those who have qualms about the severity of the penalty included in the substitute, to look at it from the woman's point of view and to understand that while we believe that a woman's right to reproductive freedom includes her right not to have a child, choice also means the right to have a child, and if you are pregnant and you want that child, those who would assault you and who would either engage in a prenatal injury or cause you to miscarry have interfered with your choice, your right to become a parent and to enjoy all the things that those of us who are mothers do enjoy, which is to watch our children grow and to help them become ever more responsible citizens. I urge a ``yes'' vote on the substitute and a ``no'' vote on the Canady bill.”