Pro-life organizations train activists in standardized debate responses for campus encounters

Evidence

I approach another two dozen or so women and I hear versions of the same response. The talking points match those found in widely disseminated “apologetics” intended to help pro-life activists refute progressive arguments for abortion rights. The Students for Life of America National Conference, which takes place the day after the march, offers a breakout session on “Pro-Life Apologetics for College Students,” which promises “tips based on actual experience on college campuses.” There is also an “Advanced Apologetics” course that provides answers to “the most difficult pro-life questions that would’ve previously left you stumped.” — Katherine Stewart, The Power Worshippers, 294

Categorization

• STORYSTEM: A novel or story could center on a young activist who finds her genuinely held beliefs are inseparable from rehearsed scripts, and the moment a real-life encounter breaks the canned answer.
• XREF: Connects to the literature on manufactured political speech and practiced messaging, similar to the ‘off-limits lists’ and rehearsed talking points seen in Base Nation’s base politics.