The Students for Life Club at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse fosters discussions on campus about supporting the dignity of a human life and supporting pregnant and parenting students at UWL.
Eva Snyder, second-year student and president of the club describes the group as a nonpartisan and not religiously affiliated group.The club advocates for the right to life.
“Our club goal is nonpartisan, secular and we are not affiliated with any other Christian or religious organizations on campus. We are simply seeking to promote a culture of life,” Snyder said.
While the club’s main focus is anti-abortion advocacy, members also discuss topics like assisted suicide and end-of-life care, focusing on the idea that life should end naturally.
“For our club, we’re talking about every human person’s inherent right to have the freedom to live from conception until natural death,” Snyder said.
In the United States, reproductive freedom is a highly debated topic. In June of 2022 the Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade leaving abortion laws up to the states. Following this decision, 12 states in the U.S. have instated total abortion bans. In Wisconsin, abortions are legal until 22 weeks of pregnancy.
For the Students for Life club at UWL, their continued goal is to inform people of their beliefs, while still supporting those who are experiencing pregnancy on campus. While Snyder agrees that this topic can raise some debate and be tense to talk about-especially on a college campus-she approaches every conversation with respect and an open mind.
“We are not here to drive more division on campus. We are simply here to inform students,” Snyder said.
Snyder also discussed how ‘pro- life’ has various meanings for people:
“When I talk about Students for Life, I make sure to be clear that we advocate for the rights of babies in the womb, we are anti-abortion, and we’re looking to support pregnant and parenting students here at UWL,” Snyder said.
Last year as a service project, the club hosted a baby bottle drive in the La Crosse area in order to raise money for those who are experiencing pregnancy because when you choose to become a parent, they know it is a big deal.
“Being a pregnant student or being a parenting student is a big choice, and so making sure those mothers and fathers feel dignified and respected in that, is the first step in supporting these students,” Snyder said.
As the club expands, they hope to continue to spread awareness about their beliefs on campus.
If interested in asking questions or attending a club meeting, you can connect via the clubs social media on Instagram @uwlsfla
