Sex, Science, and Stem Cells

In Sex, Science, and Stem Cells, Congress’s leading advocate of stem-cell research presents a blistering indictment of the politicization of science—and sex—by the Bush administration, the Republican leadership, and the religious right. Addressing not only stem-cell research but also birth control, HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns, abortion, and sex education, Congresswoman Diana DeGette dares to do what the Republican leadership can’t, or won’t—initiating a real discussion of human sexuality and reproduction and opening the door to responsible, fact-based legislation.

You May Know...
President Bush and the religious right and their Congressional allies oppose abortion funding.

But did you know?
They also oppose birth control, having tried to limit condom distribution and remove coverage from the federal employees’ health insurance plan which, ironically, covers Viagra.

You May Know...
President Bush opposes embryonic stem-cell research that may hold the key to treating many life-threatening diseases, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and diabetes.

But did you know?
The federal government has actually given $10 million in grants to religious organizations such as Night light Christian Adoptions that put up embryos previously used in in vitro fertilization procedures for “adoption.” In 2006, there were some 133 so-called “snowflake babies” born from such programs—at a cost to taxpayers of almost $77,000 per child.

You May Know...
The federal government has committed $15 billion to international HIV/AIDS prevention.

But did you know?
The vast majority of these funds have been given to organizations that refuse to promote birth control as a part of HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention.

You May Know...
Republican presidential candidate John McCain supports expanding embryonic stem-cell research.

But did you know?
On everything else, John McCain takes his cues directly from the religious right when it comes to science and sex education. He has voted: against birth control for federal employees; against funding medically accurate pregnancy prevention programs; against funding for the United Nations agency in charge of family planning.