Abuse of Women

Re “U.S. Wants Avowal Against Abortion,” March 1: Once again the United States brings to the international table a narrow administration agenda -- that “documents from 10 years ago do not create new human rights with the weight of a treaty or a right to an abortion.” This posture belies any U.S. intent to safeguard women’s rights and promote equality for women. What a travesty when major world crises -- poverty, AIDS, sex slavery -- dehumanize girls and women worldwide and demand the attention of the international community.

But as long as the Bush administration clings to an agenda that excludes women’s health, education and welfare, women will not achieve equality in the U.S. or in the world.

Lenore Navarro Dowling

Los Angeles