At a recent archdiocesan Communications Workshop, the November ballot’s Issue 1 and its implications were brought forth as a topic of discussion. A priest made one point very clear: We need to talk about this amendment to the Ohio constitution in a very different way than Catholics normally talk about abortion. Do Catholics wish to see an end to all abortions? Yes. But that is not what this constitutional amendment is about.

Regardless of whether Issue 1 passes or fails, abortion will remain legal in Ohio. What is at stake is when a pregnancy can be terminated—and that point is of particular importance. Across the country, the majority of people who claim to be pro-choice do not believe that abortion should be allowed through nine months or birth. Yet, that issue is what this amendment would enable. Don’t believe me? Look at page 13 of this issue of the magazine. We highlighted language on the ballot that would allow for it.

Also of great concern in this proposed amendment is the dissolution of parental notification and consent surrounding not only abortion, but other medical procedures as well. As a parent, this terrifies me. Right now, my children can’t even receive a vaccine without parental consent, and the thought that they would be able to do something life-altering to their bodies without full comprehension of what they are agreeing to is the stuff of nightmares.

This issue of the magazine was planned to not only inform you about Issue 1 on the November ballot item and its long term implications, but also to show the wonderful, life-affirming and supportive alternative responses to unplanned pregnancies that are available in this archdiocese. Those options not only include support for unborn children, but also ongoing care, support and affirmation for women and families. You’ll find tools and options for how you can stop the amendment from passing: from personal prayer and fasting, to engaging in healthy conversations around the matter.

Take a moment to visit www.pray54ohio.org, and join people from across the state as we pray for the protection of human life and dignity, and the defeat of Issue 1.

Ohio is at a crossroads. No matter your stance on when life begins, this proposed amendment is frightening in its ambiguity and open-ended interpretation. Please take the time to read through this issue of the magazine, educate yourself on the ballot language, and Vote NO on Issue 1.