Video featuring an animated fetus may soon be integrated into sex education curricula across multiple U.S. states, sparking concerns among pro-choice activists and organizations.
The animated video, produced by the pro-life group Live Action, chronicles the development of Baby Olivia with the intention of providing students with insights into the origins of life and fostering an appreciation for human existence.
Describing the project, it highlights Olivia’s journey from a single-celled organism to a fully formed baby with a pulsating heart, brain activity, digits, and limbs, showcasing the intricate beauty of life within the womb.
Proponents of the pro-choice movement have expressed apprehension that the video could potentially sway students with pro-life ideologies.
The proposed legislation in Kentucky, Iowa, West Virginia, and Missouri mandates that public school students view a similar video akin to Baby Olivia.
This initiative mirrors a comparable endeavor from the previous year.
Lila Rose, the founder of Live Action, established the organization at the age of 15 and emphasized that the animated portrayal of Baby Olivia aims to be educational and enlightening.
Critics of the legislation have accused the video of presenting a biased perspective in favor of pro-life beliefs.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a reputable association of medical professionals in the field of gynecology, has alleged that the video is crafted to manipulate viewers’ emotions, as reported by the AP.
Conversely, proponents argue that the video serves as an educational tool suitable for all audiences.
The project’s website acknowledges the contributions of numerous medical experts who were involved in certifying the accuracy of the animation, spanning various disciplines such as gynecology, cell biology, neurobiology, and anatomy.
Reports from Iowa reveal that healthcare professionals and educators have raised concerns about the video, claiming that it inaccurately depicts critical developmental milestones occurring two weeks earlier than the actual timeline.
Additionally, an OB-GYN from Iowa has criticized the video for anthropomorphizing the fetus by attributing human characteristics such as “sighing,” “playing,” and making “speaking movements.”
While some, like Iowa Republican Rep. Luana Stoltenberg, support the idea of showcasing the video to students, others question its potential impact on shaping young minds’ perceptions of pregnancy and abortion decisions.
In response to the backlash, Lila Rose accused pro-choice advocates of condemning the video because it challenges their belief system that deems the fetus as unworthy of protection.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.