“The crimes of Hannibal Lecter might seem far removed from labs in America where embryonic babies are mutilated,” said Fr. Joseph Howard, director of the American Bioethics Advisory Commission (an American Life League division). “But embryonic stem cell research involves the scientific feeding on the tiniest human persons.”
As the “Ides of March” approach (the March 15 grant application deadline for President Bush to revoke National Institute of Health guidelines, which allow funding of research on stem cells harvested from human persons), Americans “must beware of this destructive and unnecessary research, which destroys human persons in their embryonic stage of development, funded at our expense,” Fr. Howard said. “Research on stem cells suctioned from embryonic babies creates a demand for more destruction.”
“Funding for research on embryonic stem cells must be stopped. The scientific community must be encouraged to develop research on stem cells obtained from adults or in other ethical means.” Fr. Howard called upon HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson to overturn the NIH guidelines and ban federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. “A multi-million dollar industry is feeding on embryonic children for the sake of utilitarian gain,” he said. “This is unethical and irresponsible science.”
Release issued: 1 Mar 01
