The Feminine Force: Women’s Roles in the Abolition Movement

I’m often asked by other women what their role should be in the abolitionist movement. Many feel like they don’t have a place, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Every woman has a unique role to play, even though how that looks may vary from one to another.

One of the things I admire about the abolitionist movement is that it is being led by men, which is biblical and aligns with God's design for leadership. While women may not hold the primary leadership positions, there are countless ways we can support and contribute meaningfully to the cause.

The most important thing any woman can do is pray. We can pray for the abolishment of abortion, for our pastors, for the leaders of the movement, and for our husbands, who might be out there actively engaging in the battle against the culture of death. This prayerful support is foundational.

Beyond prayer, some women may contribute by leveraging social media to educate and raise awareness. Others may prefer doing behind-the-scenes research to help inform and equip the movement while continuing to serve as keepers of their homes and nurturing their children. There is no shame in being a stay-at-home wife or mother. In fact, it’s a noble calling that has a profound impact, and raising your children in the fear and admonition of the Lord is an important contribution to the future.

Some women are called to the front lines, actively engaging in outreach to mothers online, visiting abortion mills, holding street evangelism signs, or even writing letters to legislators and speaking with them directly. That’s a wonderful way to serve, too!

In my family, my husband and I believe that God has called me to be active at the abortion mills while he works and provides for our family. He is the head of our home, and we always discuss when I will go to the mills, what conferences we’ll attend, and how we balance our family’s needs with our calling. This is what works for us, but I understand that it’s not the same for every family.

Mothers with young children may find it difficult to juggle being on the front lines while caring for their little ones, and that’s okay. This season of life requires creativity. There are other ways to support the movement that may better suit your current circumstances. Even raising your children to know and love the Lord is a significant contribution to the movement’s future impact.

Let’s not forget that we can distribute abolitionist literature ("drop cards") wherever we go—whether running errands or simply out and about. This is a simple but effective way to plant seeds, and it’s something children often enjoy doing too. It’s a great way to involve them from an early age in this important mission.

As women in the abolitionist movement, we do have a place in this fight. We shouldn’t be discouraged by how much or how little we feel we can do. Instead, we should focus on what God has given us the ability to do and embrace it with all our hearts.

Let’s also take joy in the fact that, in this movement, men are leading biblically, uncorrupted by society's shifting ideas of political correctness. We can fully embrace our femininity and our role in supporting this righteous cause.