Dear John,

This is heartbreaking. 

A recent Gallup poll found that 71% of Americans support legal euthanasia, and 66% agree with physician-assisted suicide.

These views span the political divide: 79% of Democrats, 72% of independents, and 61% of Republicans polled said they believe euthanasia should be legal.

At least one researcher has questioned the accuracy of the recent Gallup numbers, noting that the results depend on how the questions are asked. Even if the results are fully representative, euthanasia – the intentional killing of a patient by a medical provider – is currently illegal in all 50 states. 

But, sadly, physician-assisted suicide is now legal in ten states and Washington D.C.

As you probably already know, Oregon became the first state to legalize assisted suicide in the 1990s. 

And a recent survey of doctors found that many want to expand eligibility for assisted suicide to include not just terminally ill adults, but people with “intractable psychiatric conditions,” children with terminal diagnoses, and adults with late-stage dementia, among others.

This is such a tragedy. 

As pro-life advocates, we are consistent about our beliefs. From a six-week-old embryo to an octogenarian who needs full-time care, we know that everyone has an inherent right to life. 

Because of that right, all human beings should be treated with respect and dignity, and no one should be made to feel that killing – whether through abortion or assisted suicide – is the answer.

Here at Oregon Right to Life, we’re committed to spreading the word through dialogue, education, and outreach. 

In addition to the resources above, follow the link to watch the powerful documentary Fatal Flaws: Legalizing Assisted Death by filmmaker Kevin Dunn (you can also find it on Amazon Prime) – and share it with your family and friends. Click below to watch the trailer.

Because everyone deserves an advocate,

Lois Anderson
Executive Director