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Pro-Life News: October 31, 2005
'American Girl' Fundraiser Cancelled
In a press release today, Pro-Life Wisconsin commended St. Luke Catholic Parish in Brookfield, WI for cancelling an upcoming ‘American Girl’ fundraiser that featured the company’s dolls and clothing.

American Girl has come under increased public pressure from Christians and others concerned about moral issues after it decided to fund Girls, Inc., an organization that promotes legalized abortion and contraception.

“America is beginning to wake up,” said Peggy Hamill, Pro-Life Wisconsin State Director. “The pro-abortion, pro-contraception juggernaut has long been fueled by backroom deals and corporate contributions just like the partnership between American Girl and Girls, Inc."

Father Malloy published a written statement in St. Luke’s Parish Bulletin explaining that though the parish will lose an opportunity to raise funds for their parochial school, they cannot afford to compromise their ethics. “Everyone competes for fundraising dollars, but the pursuit of funds can’t come at the cost of our integrity,” wrote Fr. Malloy. “We are a Catholic School and we do have core values of faith and tradition. These we pass on to our young people – it’s why we have a school.”

According to Pro-Life Wisconsin, Father Malloy and his parishioners have set an excellent example of placing principle over profit. The parish sacrificed possibly thousands of dollars to take a stand for life. Such courage will most likely not, however, go unrewarded. “It would only take a few people who decide not to purchase an American Girl doll, and instead send their money to St. Luke for the parish to recoup their losses,” said Hamill.

“Fr. Malloy certainly isn’t alone,” added Hamill. “Pro-Life Wisconsin has heard from supporters like Fr. Malloy from across the state. Parents who have purchased American Girl dolls in the past are saying they feel betrayed and are even asking us about American Girl’s return policy. It’s obvious that the parishioners at St. Luke represent only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to those who are angry at American Girl and their affiliation with Girls, Inc.”