When I first started teaching history to the middle school children at Pacelli Catholic Schools in Austin, Minnesota, I noticed that some of the students, particularly those of color, became edgy and even angry when the class discussion revolved around the Civil War and slavery.

I explained to the students that they have no right to blame another student because of what their ancestors did. We should not take responsibility for what happened in the past, but we should take responsibility to understand what happened in the past.

The 13th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified Dec. 6, 1865, only 149 years ago. But before then, one human being could legally kill another human being of any age, without breaking the law. I believe that the future will bring similar feelings about responsibilities regarding abortions.

Women’s suffrage was ratified on August 18, 1920, which was only 94 years ago. Can you imagine not being able to vote because you are female?

There have been continuous changes in our laws throughout the years that enforce a better quality of life, including civil rights in the 1960s; and just last year, a law was put into place that attempts to provide women with equal pay of men.

The world’s civilization is constantly changing. As a matter of fact, the only constant that exists is change. How ironic?

I have been told that a developing infant cannot survive outside of a mother’s womb until it is born. I say, after a baby is born, it still cannot survive without the love and care of a parent or other loving adult. What is the difference? I have been told that a woman should be able to do what she wants with her reproductive system. I agree. As long as it does not affect the quality of life of another human being.

Thomas K. Price has been endorsed by the Independence Party Minnesota and is campaigning to be elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives, District 27A.

Tom Price

Alden