Wrongfully accused

by Brenda Allington, Florence

I was sitting at the Hamilton Farmer’s Market when an older man wearing a cap identifying his political affiliation, looked at me and snarled, “Baby killer!” You see, I was at the Ravalli Democratic Party booth helping with voter registration, answering questions, etc. I was so stunned, I was unable to reply!

The irony? I became a Certified Nurse-Midwife through the USAF in 1981, and practiced in Missoula for 22 years and provided women’s health care for 40 years. I was at the bedside of thousands of laboring women and cared for women of all ages—many from the Bitterroot. He walked away hurriedly, not waiting to engage. 

If you are reading this, Sir, Democrats are not “baby killers.” In fact, we stand for sensible gun laws because we care about the lives of our children and youth—too many of whom are lost to murder and suicide. 

We advocate for food, shelter, equitable health care, and child care for those without resources. Many of our young couples are paying  thousands of dollars every month for child care. For many parents, it is more economical NOT to work than pay for childcare. Housing, food, transportation, health care, child care—even at $20.00/hr. is $41,600 gross annually.

And no, Sir, it is NOT Biden’s fault. Why is fixing blame more important than fixing the problems?