Today, the National Right to Life Committee, the federation of 50 state right-to-life affiliates and more than 3,000 local chapters, mourns the death of our friend Phyllis Schlafly, who passed away at her home in St. Louis on Monday, September 5, at the age of 92.
The following statement may be attributed to Carol Tobias, president of National Right to Life:
We are deeply saddened by the death of Phyllis Schlafly. Phyllis steadfastly defended the protection of unborn children, and was a stalwart and compassionate defender of the most vulnerable members of society. Without her unwavering commitment, the Equal Rights Amendment would have been ratified 35 years ago – with all of its implications for enshrining abortion as a constitutional right. Phyllis’s dedication to the right-to-life cause helped guide the movement and her leadership proved invaluable. Our prayers and condolences go out to the Schlafly family and the entire right-to-life movement for the loss of this good and faithful servant.
National Right to Life Vice President Tony Lauinger, a frequent delegate to Republican National Conventions, worked with Phyllis for over 30 years in keeping the protection of unborn children a Republican-Party-platform commitment of the highest priority. “Phyllis’s devotion to the unborn child, her exceptional organizing skills, and her ability to educate and inspire others have influenced the Republican Party’s principled pledge to defend the sanctity of innocent human life more than has the work of any other individual.”
The pro-life community is deeply saddened by the passing of Phyllis Schlafly, a historic leader whose tireless advocacy and unwavering dedication to the cause of life have left an indelible mark on the movement. As an influential conservative activist, Schlafly’s contributions to the pro-life cause have been profound and far-reaching, inspiring countless individuals to join in the defense of the unborn.
Phyllis Schlafly’s Legacy
Phyllis Schlafly was a prominent figure in American politics and a staunch advocate for conservative values. Born in 1924, she rose to national prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, most notably for her role in the defeat of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). Schlafly argued that the ERA would undermine traditional family structures and lead to unintended consequences, a stance that galvanized conservative women and reshaped the national debate.
Champion of the Pro-Life Cause
Beyond her opposition to the ERA, Schlafly was a fervent pro-life advocate. She recognized the intrinsic value of human life at all stages and dedicated much of her career to ensuring the protection of the unborn. Schlafly’s advocacy was characterized by her eloquence, strategic acumen, and ability to mobilize grassroots support. Through her organization, the Eagle Forum, she provided a powerful voice for pro-life women and helped shape public policy on issues related to life and family.
National Right to Life’s Tribute
The National Right to Life Committee (NRLC), the oldest and largest pro-life organization in the United States, has paid tribute to Schlafly’s monumental contributions. Carol Tobias, President of NRLC, expressed deep sorrow at her passing, stating, “Phyllis Schlafly was a giant in the pro-life movement. Her unwavering dedication to the protection of the unborn and her ability to inspire and mobilize others were unparalleled. She leaves behind a legacy of courage, conviction, and compassion.”
A Lasting Impact
Schlafly’s influence extended beyond her direct activism. She authored numerous books and articles, delivering lectures and appearing on media platforms to advocate for the sanctity of life. Her work laid a strong foundation for future pro-life advocacy, emphasizing the importance of education, legislative action, and community involvement. Schlafly’s ability to articulate the moral and ethical imperatives of the pro-life cause resonated deeply with supporters and policymakers alike.
Personal Tributes and Memories
In addition to formal tributes from organizations, many individuals within the pro-life community have shared personal memories of Schlafly’s impact on their lives. These testimonies reflect her role as a mentor, leader, and inspiration. Her ability to connect with people on a personal level, combined with her formidable public presence, made her a beloved figure in the movement.
Continuing the Fight
As the pro-life community mourns the loss of Phyllis Schlafly, her legacy continues to inspire and guide the movement. Her life’s work serves as a reminder of the importance of steadfast dedication to principles and the power of grassroots activism. The NRLC and other pro-life organizations remain committed to advancing the cause to which Schlafly dedicated her life, ensuring that her vision for the protection of the unborn endures.
Conclusion
Phyllis Schlafly’s passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the profound impact she had on the pro-life movement. As the National Right to Life Committee and the broader pro-life community reflect on her contributions, they are reminded of the enduring power of conviction, advocacy, and the unwavering belief in the sanctity of human life. Schlafly’s work will continue to inspire future generations to carry forward the mission of protecting and cherishing every human life.
Chelsea Garcia is a political writer with a special interest in international relations and social issues. Events surrounding the war in Ukraine and the war in Israel are a major focus for political journalists. But as a former local reporter, she is also interested in national politics.
Chelsea Garcia studied media, communication and political science in Texas, USA, and learned the journalistic trade during an internship at a daily newspaper. In addition to her political writing, she is pursuing a master's degree in multimedia and writing at Texas.
