A Quantitative Analysis of Reproductive Rights and Right to Life Advocacy Organization Mission Statements

Abstract

The debate between pro-choice and pro-life advocates has raged on for decades. Despite significant political and legislative action in the recent past, abortion remains one of America’s most divisive and partisan issues. This thesis examines the mission statements of reproductive rights and right to life advocacy groups. Mission statements represent what an organization is and why it exists. This paper will aim to look at this intersection, to use quantitative methods to investigate the differences in mission statements between these groups; we find that both groups aim to portray themselves as supportive of women. In addition to signaling an organization's values and priorities, mission statements can be important in achieving positive organizational outcomes. Next, we consider the rhetoric used in and values espoused by organization mission statements, and attempt to identify their relationship with organizational success. While contributing to a growing body of literature surrounding this debate, we highlight the ways in which our findings suggest our country is moving toward equality.