by Marta Russell

About the author: Marta Russell is a freelance writer and a media consultant on disability issues.

Rarely have I felt my life to be so devalued as when I attended a workshop in Irvine, California, with experts in genetic diagnosis, testing and screening services. I have had cerebral palsy from birth, so I am not a rookie or wilting flower when it comes to oppressive attitudes toward people with disabilities. So why did I feel so overwhelmed at this conference? Because this struck at my core—my own right to exist in this world.

Who Should Judge"

Genetic prenatal screening, originally restricted by the medical profession to the detection of severe “defects,” has become a search-and-destroy mission for those who can afford it, offering the chance for parents to abort...