NPR had been using the terms “pro-life” and “pro-choice” to discuss those involved in the abortion debate. Just recently, however, they decided to change the language they would use in their new pieces. In an internal staff memo, NPR explained:
This updated policy is aimed at ensuring the words we speak and write are as clear, consistent, and neutral as possible. This is important given that written text is such an integral part of our work.
On the air, we should use “abortion rights supporter(s)/advocate(s)” and “abortion rights opponent(s)” or derivations thereof (for example: “advocates of abortion rights”). It is acceptable to use the phrase “anti-abortion”, but do not use the term “pro-abortion rights”.
Their “neutral” language clearly becomes negative for those of us who value all life from conception until natural death. To be opposed to rights certainly suggests a negative connotation. NPR is yet another news agency that attempts to structure the debate over abortion in a way that favors the pro-abortionists.
