A) Disrespect for people with opposing views on the serious questions of abortion and birth control is unwarranted. The divisions in our pluralistic society must be addressed with mutual respect to prevent any deliberate insult or offense to any individual or group.

On February 15, 1978, this issue of respect was so important that Cardinal James A. Hickey, (then bishop) of Cleveland, Ohio released the following statement to the media: "After meeting with Bill Baird…We call upon all involved in the pro-life movement…to avoid inflammatory rhetoric…and to maintain an attitude that is always respectful of life."

We call upon people on both sides of the issue to avoid disrespectful language.

B) Respect for those who disagree with us encourages dialogue. Dialogue involves respectfully listening to another's experiences, insights, and reasons for their beliefs. Respectful dialogue, while not expecting either party to compromise his or her beliefs, can lessen or stop dangerous, dehumanizing assumptions about those on the opposite side of this issue.

We believe that regular meetings, including social ones, between opposing sides should be conducted at least once per month to encourage people to form civil relationships.