In recent news, female students at the University of Manchester in the UK have expressed concerns for their safety due to the formation of an anti-abortion society led by men. The Manchester Pro-Life Society, which aims to promote respect for the dignity of human life from conception, has faced massive backlash since its creation in mid-January. The society initially did not have any female members, but two women have recently been added to the group. However, it remains unclear if their recruitment was in response to the criticism.
A Change.org petition was launched on February 12th, demanding the disbandment of the club and has gathered support from nearly 18,000 people. One concerned student expressed her worries about the potential harm caused by the society, stating that it adds to the prevalent stigma surrounding abortion and puts additional pressure on women at the university. Abortion has been legal in Great Britain since 1967, and many believe that women’s rights and bodily autonomy should not be up for debate.
The University of Manchester’s student union has stated that the society was established under its rules and is properly registered, making it difficult for them to disband the group. They cited legal reasons, including the 1993 Education Act, 2010 Equality Act, and the 1986 Education Act. Moreover, the union mentioned that the Freedom of Speech legislation passed in 2023 will be fully implemented by September.
Despite these legal constraints, many female students feel that the existence of the society makes them fear for their safety. They believe that it promotes a harmful rhetoric and reinforces negative views about abortion. One student compared the situation to a Margaret Atwood novel and accused the student union of enabling misogynistic hate speech. She questioned whether the university truly understands the implications of supporting a pro-life culture.
The concerns raised by female students highlight a larger debate about women’s rights and freedom of speech on university campuses. While universities are supposed to be centers of progression, some argue that allowing societies to debate women’s bodily autonomy and rights goes against this principle. The female students feel that their concerns are being ignored in favor of the club’s creators.
It is essential to have diverse political views on campus, but the issue of women’s bodily autonomy should not be up for debate, according to one student. She suggested that men form anti-abortion groups should focus on other men’s issues instead. The controversy surrounding the Manchester Pro-Life Society raises questions about the balance between free speech and ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
The University of Manchester, the student union, and the Manchester Pro-Life Society have been contacted for comment regarding these concerns. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the university will address the fears and demands of its female students and whether any actions will be taken regarding the society.
