Dorothy Yeung: Called to Protect
While opposition to abortion remains a central component of the right-to-life agenda, Christian activists must be mindful of a wide range of issues impacting human dignity, according to Dorothy Yeung (’04), a legal counselor with the National Right to Life Committee's (NRLC) Department of Medical Ethics.
Yeung is at the forefront of key cultural battles concerning the right to life. According to Yeung, “Regent Professor James Duane’s devotions and presentations on pro-life issues inspired me to commit my gifts and legal knowledge to the prolife cause.”
She worked in close concert with Rep. Mel Martinez of Florida to help pass “Terri’s Law” in an attempt to prevent removal of the feeding tube that was used to keep Terri Schindler-Schiavo alive. Formerly titled the Incapacitated Persons Legal Protection Act, the legislation passed both houses of Congress and was signed into law by President Bush on March 19, 2005.
However, the disabled woman ultimately died of starvation and dehydration when federal courts precluded implementation of the law. Yeung believes the high-profile case will have long-term impact on public attitudes. “The Schiavo case was unique because it was in the public eye. It raises important questions about human dignity and the decisions driving euthanasia.”
Despite the setbacks, Yeung sees cause for hope. She points toward key legislative victories such as the Unborn Victims of Violence Act, which recently became law. Unborn children who are harmed during the commission of a violent crime are now considered victims. “It means a manslaughter or homicide charge would equal two counts instead of one.”
Although the bill does not specifically address abortion jurisprudence, it highlights the issue explicitly, which may influence public opinion. “The public should pick up on the inconsistency that a child is protected in one case, but not in another.”
Yeung also said parental notification laws at the state level remain a key component of the pro-life agenda. When asked to reflect on her academic experience at Regent Law School, Yeung stated, “Regent’s distinct commitment to teaching law from a Christian worldview sets it apart from all the others and fosters a truly unique learning environment. I have no doubt that the preparation I received at Regent and my participation in several moot court competitions equipped me to communicate to the media with confidence on pro-life issues.”
