Sheila is one of our full-time canvassers in Michigan, spreading SBAâs pro-life message for the past year. Her interest in the pro-life movement began in her early teens, and she later joined SBA after receiving an invitation to become part of our canvassing field team. We recently caught up with her to learn more about her experiences in the field and how she approaches discussing this crucial topic with voters.
SBA: Can you share your background regarding the pro-life issue? When did you first identify as pro-life?
Sheila: I remember when I first heard about abortion and found out what it was when I was 13. I was shocked and appalled by the thought that someone could kill a baby in the womb. I asked my mother to further explain to me what abortion is and why someone would do that. We discussed it, and she told me that sometimes people feel like they need to terminate a pregnancy, whether it be for their own health or personal preference. Even then, at 13, that didnât sit right with me. I saw both the mother and child as equally deserving of protection, and both as full-blown humans worthy of a chance at life. It was then, after I learned about abortion that I became pro-life and Iâve been passionate about the issue ever since.
SBA: How did you start canvassing for SBA?
Sheila: I received an email from SBA inviting me to join their canvassing team in Michigan. Since Iâm passionate about the pro-life issue I was automatically intrigued by the opportunity to turn my enthusiasm for the movement into a job. After researching SBA’s mission and the responsibilities of a canvasser, I filled out my application and began canvassing last October. Itâs been a great experience so far and I love having a job where I feel I can help protect women and babies!
SBA:Â How would you describe the job of a canvasser?
Sheila: The simple answer is that you knock on a voter’s door and ask them the questions provided by SBA that are designed to inform voters and make them think about their position on abortion. However, itâs often not that simple. You never know what awaits you behind each door. The person you talk to could be strongly pro-choice, someone who has had an abortion, a pro-life Republican, or even someone who asks you to pray with them. You really need to be ready for anything and always remember to represent the pro-life movement well. Your goal is to plant a seed with the voter, so even if you donât change their mind at the door, you give them something to think about for the future. Ultimately, my job as a canvasser is to make voters think. A lot of people donât truly consider their views on abortion, but when they are prompted to reflect, they often realize they are more pro-life than they thought. That awareness can often lead to real change and even influence how they vote.
SBA:Â What would you say is the most rewarding part of being an SBA canvasser?
Sheila: The most rewarding part of canvassing is witnessing someone change their mind based on the information you provided them. Whether it’s about their view on abortion or who they plan to vote for, seeing that shift shows youâre making a difference. When someone says, âI never knew Kamala Harris supported thatâ or âI didnât know that about Slotkin; thereâs no way I would vote for her now,â I feel great knowing I made a positive impact for the movement.
SBA: Can you share a touching or inspiring story from the field?
Sheila: I met a 33-year-old man while canvassing recently who had an incredible storyâhe survived an abortion. His mother had already had four abortions and was about to have a fifth when he miraculously pulled through. After he survived, his grandmother, a passionate pro-life advocate, adopted him and raised him as her own. Now, he takes great pride in caring for her in her golden years and is deeply grateful for both his life and the love she gave him. It was such an inspiring encounter that filled me with joy. His story is a beautiful reminder of the amazing lives that can flourish if unborn children are given the chance to live.
When the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, our movement was given a historic opportunity. But the battle for life became much more difficult.
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