Women in North Carolina lack protections against rapists who impregnated them. In one case, a North Carolina woman gave birth to a baby conceived through sexual assault. She wanted to put the baby up for adoption, but required permission from the father, who was currently awaiting trial for the rape. He said he would agree to the adoption if she agreed not to testify against him.
In 15 states, North Carolina included, rape victims who are impregnated and carry their children to term have no power to break ties with their rapists. This leaves them vulnerable to manipulation and harassment that slows down their recovery process. If the women choose to keep and raise their children, they face financial and emotional stress in expensive custody battles.
The trauma of rape is tragic enough without forcing women to choose between their children's best interests and a continued relationship with their abuser. Please sign the petition to urge North Carolina to pass legislation to cut off parental rights for rapists!
We, the undersigned, are concerned that women in North Carolina lack protections against rapists who impregnated them. In one case, a North Carolina woman gave birth to a baby conceived through sexual assault. She wanted to put the baby up for adoption, but required permission from the father, who was currently awaiting trial for the rape. He said he would agree to the adoption if she agreed not to testify against him.
In 15 states, North Carolina included, rape victims who are impregnated and carry their children to term have no power to break ties with their rapists. This leaves them vulnerable to manipulation and harassment that slows down their recovery process. If the women choose to keep and raise their children, they face financial and emotional stress in expensive custody battles.
The trauma of rape is tragic enough without forcing women to choose between their children's best interests and a continued relationship with their abuser. We respectfully urge you to pass legislation to cut off parental rights for rapists. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider our petition.
