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MCCL has partnered with Cars with Heart to offer a vehicle donation program for our donors. DONATE A VEHICLE Vehicle donations help fund our lifesaving work MCCL has partnered with CARS to offer a vehicle donation program for our donors. The organization offers a quick, hassle-free way for you to dispose of a car and receive a tax deduction while helping MCCL’s lifesaving work. Simply follow the instructions at the link to start the donation process. Proceeds from all donated vehicles will help financially support MCCL’s ongoing efforts to educate Minnesotans about abortion, infanticide, and euthanasia. If you have additional questions, please call the MCCL state office at 612-825-6831 or email us at mccl@mccl.org .

Donated goods, professional services, and event hosting are extremely important in helping MCCL operate more efficiently and effectively. IN-KIND GIFTS MCCL currently is in need of in-kind gifts. In-kind gifts include donated goods, professional services, and event hosting, and are extremely important in helping MCCL operate more efficiently and effectively as we serve our members, chapters, and many vulnerable persons in need of protection. The items listed below are goods, services, and event-hosting that MCCL may currently need. Please consider how your in-kind services might contribute to our lifesaving work. Donated goods Graphic design software Projector Laptop computer Envelope sealing machine Booth backdrops and graphics Billboard rental space Gift cards for gasoline Office supplies Professional services Printing Electrician services Plumbing services Graphic design Cleaning services Web design Translators Catering Event hosting Fundraising reception Fall Tour meeting host Event fundraiser If you would like to help MCCL acquire one or more of these needed items, please contact the MCCL state office at 612-825-6831 or e-mail us at mccl@mccl.org . Thank you!

Whether or not you are wealthy, your generous gift can make a tremendous impact over time. PLANNED GIVING You can touch the future by leaving a charitable gift in your will or estate to MCCL. Whether or not you are wealthy, your generous gift can make a tremendous impact over time. Leaving a legacy of life to MCCL is easy; a simple directive in your will brings much-needed support to our lifesaving work. There are many ways for you to make a difference through planned giving beyond a monetary donation. You can leave stock, real estate, insurance policies, and personal property to MCCL. You can also make MCCL a beneficiary of your life insurance, pension plan, or IRA. Contact a financial adviser (financial planner, lawyer, or accountant) to ask for help in establishing a charitable gift to MCCL, and to ensure you have an up-to-date will that reflects your desire to leave a legacy with MCCL. To further discuss opportunities for leaving a charitable gift to MCCL, please call the MCCL state office at 612-825-6831 or e-mail us at mccl@mccl.org . Thank you!

MCCL's pro-life summer camp provides pro-life education to equip students to be knowledgeable and effective pro-life advocates and leaders. MCCL's next Life Leadership Camp will take place Aug. 9-12 in Paynesville, Minnesota. It is open to incoming 6th graders through outgoing 8th graders. REGISTER NOW Life Leadership Camp is MCCL's annual pro-life summer camp for young people. Please note that, in a change from past years, we're now offering two different camps—one for middle school students and one for high school students. Students and parents should make plans now! Life Leadership Camp — middle school: August 9-12 at Koronis Ministries (Paynesville, MN) For incoming 6th graders through outgoing 8th graders. Register now . (Registration deadline is Aug. 3 or when camp reaches capacity.) The Camp empowered me to have more meaningful conversations with friends and to share what I've learned with others. I also hope to start a [college pro-life] club. - Previous camp attendee Spanning two full days and two partial days, each Life Leadership Camp offers impactful pro-life education, compelling guest speakers, engaging activities, and outdoor fun with fellow students from across the state. Students will learn how to make a difference for life as pro-life leaders in their schools and communities! Cost to attend is just $100 per student, which includes meals, accommodations, materials, and a T-shirt; scholarships are also available by contacting MCCL . Both camps take place at Koronis Ministries in Paynesville, which is west of the Twin Cities in central Minnesota. Life Leadership Camp (originally called Camp Joshua) began in 2015 and has taken place each summer since, with the exception of 2020. See the FAQs below or contact MCCL with any questions or concerns! Frequently Asked Questions What is Life Leadership Camp? Life Leadership Camp is a pro-life summer camp for high school and middle school students that includes educational sessions, fun outdoor games, engaging activities, and more, covering abortion and other right-to-life issues. Students will learn about pro-life activism, leadership, and engaging others in dialogue to impact hearts and minds, while making new friends and networking with other pro-life students from across the state. They will gain the knowledge and tools to become effective pro-life advocates and lead pro-life student groups at their own schools. When is Life Leadership Camp? June 22-25 (high school) OR August 9-12 (middle school), 2026. Camp begins at 3:00 p.m. on the first day and ends at noon on the last. Where will it be held? Koronis Ministries (15752 County Rd. 181, Paynesville, MN 56362) What does it cost? $100 per student (includes meals, accommodations, materials, and T-shirt); scholarships are available. Who can attend Life Leadership Camp? August 9-12 camp: Incoming 6th graders through outgoing 8th graders. How do I register? Register online on this page (above), or complete the paper registration and other required forms and mail with suggested donation to: MCCL, 4249 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55409. When is the registration deadline? The registration deadline is Aug. 3 (for the middle school camp), or when camp reaches capacity. Registration for the high school camp is now closed. We will contact you shortly after the deadline with a packing list, directions to the camp, and other relevant information. Who sponsors Life Leadership Camp? Life Leadership Camp is sponsored by Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL), Minnesota’s oldest and largest pro-life organization and the sole Minnesota affiliate of the National Right to Life Committee. Who will be leading Life Leadership Camp? MCCL's Ministry Safe-trained staff will lead the camp. MCCL staff and special guest speakers will lead sessions. Find Life Leadership Camp promotional materials here.

Pregnancy care centers offer services including free pregnancy testing, counseling, practical assistance, information about alternatives to abortion, and more. PREGNANT? NEED HELP? ¿Estás Embarazada? ¿Necesitas Ayuda? 24-hour nationwide help: OptionLine -- call/text 1-800-712-4357 Birthright -- call 1-800-550-4900 Listed below are pregnancy resource centers throughout Minnesota and surrounding areas—scroll to find the one nearest you. Pregnancy resource centers offer services including free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, options counseling, alternatives to abortion, and many other forms of assistance. Available services vary by center. Individual centers are sponsored by various organizations; some are faith-based, but all are open to women of all faiths. Please also see information about additional pregnancy services and post-abortion support . MINNESOTA scroll to find your city Alexandria Life Connections 320-762-1224 Anoka Women's Care Center 763-208-0076 Apple Valley Pregnancy Choices 952-234-9850 Austin Rachel's Hope 507-437-7595 Bemidji Northwoods Pregnancy Center 218-444-3035 Brainerd Birthright 218-829-8470 Lakes Area Pregnancy Support Center 218-825-0793 Burnsville Amnion Women's Center 952-209-9990 Cambridge Lex Specialty Clinic 763-325-8709 Coon Rapids Birthright 763-757-0715 Epiphany Caring for Life 612-803-2225 Crystal Metro Women's Center 763-533-8642 Crystal Women's Clinic 763-531-9554 Deer River New Beginnings Pregnancy + Family Support 218-246-2010 Detroit Lakes Health Resource Center 218-844-8822 Duluth Women's Care Center 218-623-7100 East Bethel Lex Specialty Clinic 763-297-3311 Eden Prairie SW Options for Women 952-938-4496 Elk River Elevier Women's Center 763-441-7777 Fairmont Options Pregnancy Center 507-238-2330 Faribault Pregnancy Options LifeCare Center 507-332-7644 Fergus Falls Health Resource Center 218-736-6050 Forest Lake Lakes LifeCare Center 651-464-4340 Grand Rapids New Beginnings Pregnancy + Family Support 218-326-0404 Hastings TLC of Hastings 651-437-4200 Hibbing Family Life Center 218-262-5768 Hutchinson Birthright 320-587-5433 International Falls Northern Options for Women 218-285-7673 Little Canada New Day Pregnancy Care Center 651-644-3937 Women's LifeCare Center 651-777-0350 Long Prairie Pregnancy & Life Resource Center 320-533-0976 Mankato Birthright 507-387-7818 Catholic Charities 507-387-5586 Options for Women 507-625-2229 Marshall Birthright 507-532-3660 Choices Pregnancy Center 507-637-2534 Milaca Rum River Life Choices Center 320-983-3771 Minneapolis City Life Center 612-874-1808 First Care Pregnancy Center 612-286-0076 Abria Pregnancy Resources 651-350-1179 Tandem Family Resource Center 612-823-0301 Moorhead Birthright 218-477-1977 Women's Care Center 218-512-0453 Mora Mora Crisis Pregnancy Center 320-679-4493 Morris Options for Women Morris 320-589-0300 New Ulm First Choice Pregnancy Services 507-359-9800 North Branch Options for Women Chisago County 651-674-2121 Northfield Northfield Women's Center 507-645-7638 Ortonville Options for Women 320-487-0111 Park Rapids Pregnancy Resource Center 218-732-5212 Pine City Pregnancy Resource Center 320-629-2792 Princeton Rum River Life Choices Center 763-389-7876 Red Wing First Choice Clinic 651-267-4357 Redwood Falls Choices Pregnancy Center 507-637-2534 Richfield First Care Pregnancy Center 612-866-7643 Rochester Birthright 507-288-9374 Catholic Charities 507-287-2047 First Care Pregnancy Center 507-282-3377 Roseau North Region Pregnancy Care Center 218-463-0580 Sandstone Options for Women 320-216-7633 Sauk Centre Options for Women 320-351-4025 Savage Alpha Women's Center 952-495-0300 Staples Lakes Area Pregnancy Support Center 218-895-5200 Stillwater Options for Women St. Croix Valley 651-439-5964 St. Cloud Pregnancy Resource Center 320-216-3280 St. Michael Options for Women Cornerstone 612-584-9449 St. Paul Abria Pregnancy Resources 651-350-1179 Birthright 651-646-7033 First Care Pregnancy Center 651-730-4342 Options for Women East 651-776-2328 Thief River Falls Aurora Resource Center 218-681-1279 Wadena Lakes Area Pregnancy Support Center 218-632-5201 Waite Park Elevate Pregnancy and Family Resource Center 320-252-4150 Pregnancy Resource Center 320-216-3280 Walker Walker Area Pregnancy Support Center 218-547-5433 West St. Paul Wakota Guiding Star 651-457-1195 Willmar Hope Pregnancy Center 320-235-7619 Winona Catholic Charities 507-454-2270 Birthright 507-452-2421 Woodbury Options for Women 651-340-9062 Worthington Helping Hands Pregnancy Center 507-372-2111 SURROUNDING AREAS scroll to find your city NORTH DAKOTA: Fargo Women's Care Center 701-237-6530 Grand Forks Relate Care Center 701-746-8866 SOUTH DAKOTA: Brookings Option 1 Women's Health Center 605-692-1600 Sioux Falls Alpha Center 605-361-3500 Birthright 605-809-8409 Teddy Bear Den 605-335-2730 Watertown Haven Center 605-878-0265 WISCONSIN: La Crosse Agape Pregnancy Resource Center 608-784-4966 Menomonie Options for Women 715-222-0777 River Falls Options for Women 715-425-8539 St Croix Falls Options on 8 715-755-2229 Superior Lake Superior Lifecare Center 715-394-4102 Organizations listed on this page are not necessarily endorsed by MCCL and should be evaluated by individuals who plan to use their services.

MCCL press releases keep citizens informed of the latest legislation and other pro-life Minnesota news. NEWS RELEASES Media inquiries: mccl@mccl.org or 612.825.6831 Deceptive abortion-up-to-birth ERA revived in MN Senate committee Today a Minnesota Senate committee passed, along party lines, a bill for an amendment to enshrine unlimited abortion in the state Constitution. The bill, SF 473, would put a proposed constitutional amendment on the ballot for voters in the fall ... Feb 23 MCCL statement on Klobuchar's record on vulnerable life as she enters race for governor Amy Klobuchar is about as far from moderation on the abortion issue as a politician can possibly be. She voted against advancing a measure to ensure ordinary care for newborns who survive abortion rather than letting them die of neglect. She also voted against stopping taxpayer funding of elective abortion and against protecting babies late in pregnancy when they can feel pain. ... Jan 29 Minnesotans brave cold to speak up for voiceless at 2026 MCCL March for Life Hundreds of Minnesotans from across the state came to the Capitol in St. Paul today to urge protection and support for women and children and to spotlight the dangers of coerced abortions under Minnesota's extreme abortion policy. The annual MCCL March for Life marks the anniversary of abortion’s legalization; it has been held each year since 1974. ... Jan 22 Reported abortions decline slightly but remain high in wake of sweeping policy changes Abortions declined slightly in 2024 but have risen 35 percent since 2021, according to a corrected-but-still-incomplete report from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). MDH has revised its original Dec. 31 report after mistakenly double-counting more than 2,500 abortions. ... Dec 31, 2025 MCCL statement on the attacks against Minnesota legislators June 14, 2025 | Press Release ST. PAUL — In response to the attacks against Minnesota legislators earlier today, Minnesota Citizens... Jun 14, 2025 Minnesota House fails to pass protection for born-alive infants, support for pregnant women March 13, 2025 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Today the Minnesota House of Representatives failed, on a party-line 67-66 vote, to pass a bill to require medically appropriate lifesaving care for infants who survive abortion (68 votes were needed for passage). The House also voted down, 67-65, a measure to provide grants to organizations that assist new mothers, babies, and families. "Infants born after abortion should not be left to die without the care that other babies receive. Mar 13, 2025 ERA advocates use dishonest poll to push for dishonest unlimited-abortion amendment February 18, 2025 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Over the last two days, the Minnesota Legislature's Reproductive Freedom Caucus and other... Feb 18, 2025 Thousands remember 14,000 lost and call for restored protections at MCCL March for Life January 22, 2025 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Thousands of Minnesotans joined the 52nd annual MCCL March for Life today at the state Capitol to call for restored protections for vulnerable human life. Abortions have risen 39 percent in two years as lawmakers and Gov. Walz have enacted sweeping polices enshrining unlimited abortion, expanding taxpayer funding of abortion, and repealing protection for born-alive infants as well as a program supporting pregnant women and new mothe Jan 22, 2025 Abortions increase again as extreme policies in Minnesota have grave effect December 31, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Abortions in Minnesota increased 16 percent to a 20-year high of 14,124 in 2023,... Dec 31, 2024 Proponents of radical amendment try for special session even after voters reject extreme agenda November 12, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — ERA Minnesota is calling for a special session before new lawmakers take office in... Nov 12, 2024 Minnesota House elections show impact of extreme abortion votes, rejection of pro-abortion message November 6, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota House DFL majority that voted to enshrine unlimited abortion and to repeal... Nov 6, 2024 New ad campaign spotlights reality of abortion survivors, extremism of Minnesota lawmakers October 11, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — The MCCL State Victory Fund has launched a digital ad campaign spotlighting the reality of... Oct 11, 2024 MCCL statement on Walz's debate comments about abortion and born-alive infants October 2, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — In response to Gov. Tim Walz's debate comments about his actions regarding abortion and born-alive infants in Minnesota, MCCL Co-Executive Director Cathy Blaeser issued the following statement: "In 2023, Gov. Walz repealed Minnesota's requirement that born-alive infants receive medically appropriate care that would save their lives. He also signed legislation establishing a policy of unlimited abortion throughout pregnancy. When c Oct 2, 2024 MCCL statement on Trump's debate comments about Minnesota's extreme abortion policy September 11, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — In response to Donald Trump's comments about Minnesota policy and Gov. Tim Walz in last... Sep 11, 2024 MCCL launches new ad focused on loving mother and child August 8, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Today Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL), the state's oldest and largest pro-life... Aug 8, 2024 Walz’s record on life: Elderly, newborns, and others pay the price for absolutism and neglect August 6, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Tim Walz, Kamala Harris’ choice as running mate, brings to the presidential race a long track record of abortion-up-to-birth extremism, opposition to protection for vulnerable newborns, and policies that harm elderly and disabled patients. “Tim Walz isn’t like your favorite grandpa,” said Cathy Blaeser, co-executive director of Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL), Minnesota’s largest pro-life organization. “He’s a th Aug 6, 2024 MCCL statement on Supreme Court chemical abortion ruling June 13, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Today the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the plaintiffs in FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic... Jun 13, 2024 Legislature fails to approve deceptive amendment enshrining unlimited abortion May 20, 2024 | Press Release ST. PAUL — The Minnesota legislature last night failed to approve a deceptive measure to put the so-called... May 20, 2024 Minnesotans rally at the Capitol against abortion deception in ERA bill May 8, 2024 | Press Release ST. PAUL — A large crowd of Minnesotans rallied today at the Minnesota Capitol in opposition to the House... May 8, 2024 MCCL calls out Democratic legislators' deception on ERA May 6, 2024 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL) today called on state legislators to vote down the... May 6, 2024 Minnesotans speak out against proposed abortion ERA April 25, 2024 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL) and others spoke Thursday against a proposed... Apr 25, 2024 MCCL launches statewide TV and media campaign against abortion amendment April 23, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Today Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL), the state’s oldest and largest pro-life... Apr 23, 2024 MCCL statement on SCOTUS oral arguments in chemical abortion case March 26, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Today the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic... Mar 26, 2024 Harris visits local abortion center as Minnesota lawmakers push more unlimited abortion measures March 14, 2024 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Today Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to visit a Planned Parenthood abortion... Mar 14, 2024 Thousands gather to remember 12,000 lives lost and oppose unlimited abortion amendment at MCCL March for Life January 22, 2024 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Thousands of Minnesotans filled the state Capitol grounds Monday to urge protection and love... Jan 22, 2024 Newborns who survive abortion now hidden from view in Minnesota, denied right to lifesaving care August 1, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Today a law goes into effect hiding from the public the fate of infants who survive abortion.... Aug 1, 2023 Abortions increase in Minnesota as lawmakers enact extreme policies, obscure future information June 30, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Abortions in Minnesota rose 20 percent in 2022, according to a report released today by the... Jun 30, 2023 One year after Dobbs, human rights advance nationwide despite extremism of Minnesota lawmakers June 23, 2023 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — On the anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs v. Jackson decision, protection for... Jun 23, 2023 Minnesota legislature repeals protection for born-alive infants, support for pregnant women May 22, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Today the Minnesota legislature approved an Omnibus health bill that repeals a bipartisan measure protecting newborns and a bipartisan program supporting pregnant women who want to carry their babies to term. It also rescinds a number of longstanding laws surrounding abortion. Gov. Tim Walz is expected to sign the wide-ranging bill, which the House and Senate passed along narrow party lines, into law. “First Gov. Walz and DFL majoriti May 22, 2023 Corruption, destruction on display in passage of House Health Omnibus bill April 27, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Yesterday the Minnesota House approved a budget bill that would repeal a bipartisan measure... Apr 27, 2023 MCCL and others spotlight rationing concerns in Omnibus Health bill, danger to the most vulnerable April 25, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Today Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL) and Center of the American Experiment drew... Apr 25, 2023 MCCL statement on Supreme Court ruling on dangerous abortion drug April 21, 2023 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — In response to today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision blocking lower court rulings on the... Apr 21, 2023 MCCL responds to court rulings on dangerous abortion drug April 10, 2023 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — A federal judge has issued a national injunction suspending use of the drug mifepristone... Apr 10, 2023 Protection for newborns would be repealed by Minnesota House omnibus bill March 27, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — The newly introduced health omnibus bill in the Minnesota House (HF 2930) would repeal a... Mar 27, 2023 Minnesota House passes bill to shield abortion crimes, undermine rule of law March 20, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Today the Minnesota House passed a bill to shield those who commit crimes related to... Mar 20, 2023 New assisted suicide bill would pose dangers to Minnesotans February 16, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL) strongly opposes legislation just introduced... Feb 16, 2023 Walz signs abortion-up-to-birth bill, entrenching Minnesota as global outlier on abortion policy January 31, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Today Gov. Tim Walz signed into law the Protect Reproductive Options (PRO) Act to enshrine... Jan 31, 2023 Senate votes for abortion-up-to-birth in Minnesota January 28, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Senate today passed a bill to enshrine in Minnesota law a right to abortion without limits at any time during pregnancy. Senators approved the bill, H.F. 1, by just a one-vote margin, 34-33. Gov. Tim Walz is expected to sign the sweeping measure into law. “Minnesotans don’t support elective third-trimester abortion. They just don’t. But that’s what this extreme bill entrenches in our state law: the right to abort any Jan 28, 2023 Thousands rally against abortion-until-birth on anniversary of abortion legalization January 22, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Today, on the 50th anniversary of the legalization of abortion, thousands of Minnesotans... Jan 22, 2023 Abortion-until-birth bill passes Minnesota House January 19, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Today the Minnesota House narrowly approved the Protect Reproductive Options (PRO) Act, a... Jan 19, 2023 Bill to strip protection from newborns who survive abortion passes Minnesota House committee January 12, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — A bill to repeal numerous longstanding abortion-related laws in Minnesota, including a law... Jan 12, 2023 Extreme abortion bill passes Minnesota House committee January 5, 2023 | Press Release ST. PAUL — Today the Minnesota House Finance and Policy Committee approved the Protect Reproductive... Jan 5, 2023 The Doe v. Gomez decision has led to abortion extremism in Minnesota December 15, 2022 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Today marks the anniversary of the Doe v. Gomez Minnesota Supreme Court decision that requires a policy of abortion-on-demand and taxpayer funding of abortion. It has now led to the elimination of most of Minnesota’s longstanding abortion-related laws, including informed consent and parental notification requirements. “The Doe v. Gomez ruling got the Minnesota Constitution wrong and imposed abortion extremism in Minnesota,” Dec 15, 2022 Extreme ruling strikes down commonsense Minnesota abortion laws July 11, 2022 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Today a decision in Ramsey County District Court struck down a number of abortion-related... Jul 11, 2022 Abortions stay level in 2021 as Minnesota begins post-Roe era July 1, 2022 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Abortions in Minnesota inched downward in 2021, according to a report just released by the... Jul 1, 2022 MCCL applauds Court's decision in Dobbs case allowing Americans to protect unborn children June 24, 2022 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Today Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL), Minnesota’s oldest and largest pro-life... Jun 24, 2022 Pro-life groups endorse Brad Finstad for Congress in southern Minnesota special election June 1, 2022 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL) Federal PAC and National Right to Life have... Jun 1, 2022 MCCL GO urges WHO to cease abortion promotion, recommit to health and peace May 23, 2022 | Press Release GENEVA, Switzerland — Today Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life Global Outreach (MCCL GO) urged the... May 23, 2022 MCCL and other pro-life leaders issue letter opposing criminalization of women who have abortions May 12, 2022 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Today Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL), Minnesota’s oldest and largest pro-life... May 12, 2022 U.S. Senate set to vote on no-limits abortion bill that would invalidate existing Minnesota laws May 10, 2022 | Press Release MINNEAPOLIS — Tomorrow the U.S. Senate is expected to vote on a motion to proceed with a sweeping bill... May 10, 2022

BECOME A LEADER TODAY In the span of only three years, abortions in Minnesota have increased by more than 35 percent. That’s why MCCL has been vigorously expanding our work to rebuild a pro-life Minnesota. And it’s why we’re launching a new program called “Leaders for Life”—an electronic monthly giving program that allows donors to strengthen and grow pro-life efforts in the most financially efficient way possible. We need you to be a part of it! We’re offering some fun and impactful gifts when you sign up, and it’s easy to do. There is simply no better way to make a difference for Life in Minnesota. You may join at one of five different levels : Connector for Life . With your commitment of $25 per month, we’ll send you our “conversation starter pack,” which includes materials to equip you to engage others and move hearts and minds toward Life. Influencer for Life . At $50 per month, you’ll receive our “enhanced” conversation starter pack, featuring additional items like an unborn baby feet pin and MCCL pen. Advocate for Life . At the $75 level, we’ll add an MCCL ceramic coffee mug that says “It’s a good day to save a life!” It’s perfect for your morning coffee—or for sitting down and having a conversation. Defender for Life . If you make a commitment of $100 per month, you’ll receive (in addition to our starter pack and mug) a bag of Seven Weeks Coffee—premium coffee from a pro-life coffee company whose proceeds help support pro-life work. Champion for Life . At our highest level, with your monthly gift of $200 or more, we’ll send a box of baby supplies (containing a month’s worth of diapers and wipes) to a pregnancy resource center that’s helping women and babies in your community. Each box comes from EveryLife, a pro-life diaper company that works with pro-life organizations like ours. Will you join Leaders for Life today ? If you’re unable to commit to recurring donations, you may still make a one-time gift that supports MCCL’s lifesaving work . Please know that every donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference for vulnerable human life. Thank you for your dedication to Life!

Pro-life conference for college students and young adults. Saturday, April 11, 2026, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Mall of America's Executive Center 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN Are you ready to step into your potential as a pro-life college student or young professional? MCCL is debuting its first-ever, one-of-a kind conference designed just for YOU ! Join other young adults at Life Launch to learn from leading pro-life experts, participate in advocacy activities, and build a network of pro-life peers across a variety of industries. It all takes place in the Mall of America’s beautiful Executive Center. I'M IN! Hear inspiring presentations from today's leading pro-life voices Connect with local pro-life organizations at featured tables Customize your experience with breakout sessions covering a range of topics Enter to win a variety of prizes throughout the day Enjoy a catered lunch Hear inspiring presentations from today's leading pro-life voices Connect with local pro-life organizations at featured tables Customize your experience with breakout sessions covering a range of topics Enter to win a variety of prizes throughout the day Enjoy a catered lunch Hear inspiring presentations from today's leading pro-life voices Connect with local pro-life organizations at featured tables Customize your experience with breakout sessions covering a range of topics Enter to win a variety of prizes throughout the day Enjoy a catered lunch Hear inspiring presentations from today's leading pro-life voices Connect with local pro-life organizations at featured tables Customize your experience with breakout sessions covering a range of topics Enter to win a variety of prizes throughout the day Enjoy a catered lunch Hear inspiring presentations from today's leading pro-life voices Connect with local pro-life organizations at featured tables Customize your experience with breakout sessions covering a range of topics Enter to win a variety of prizes throughout the day Enjoy a catered lunch Hear inspiring presentations from today's leading pro-life voices Connect with local pro-life organizations at featured tables Customize your experience with breakout sessions covering a range of topics Enter to win a variety of prizes throughout the day Enjoy a catered lunch Life Launch — General admission $50 Spring Break Special! $35 Full access to all sessions Catered lunch from CRAVE Swag bag (with a hat, stickers, and MORE!) Entries for giveaways Refreshments CLAIM MY SPOT Scholarships are available. Contact the MCCL office to learn more . Groups of 5 or more receive an exclusive ticket price of $25 per person! Monica Snyder Keynote Speaker Secular Pro-life, Executive Director Monica Snyder is the Executive Director of Secular Pro-Life, a non-religious organization that advances secular arguments against abortion and provides a space for non-traditional pro-lifers to engage in anti-abortion work. She brings a thoughtful, evidence-based perspective to conversations about life and ethics. Monica holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical biology from UC Berkeley and a master’s degree in forensic science from UC Davis. She takes a particular interest in research and academic articles related to abortion, and enjoys analyzing data to make complex issues accessible and understandable. Having spent much of her adult life in secular, urban parts of California, surrounded by mostly pro-choice peers, Monica is passionate about fostering friendships and understanding across ideological lines. Her personal experiences, combined with her scientific background, allow her to approach discussions about reproductive choices with empathy, clarity, and insight. Additional Speakers Scott Fischbach National Right to Life, Executive Director Scott Fischbach is the executive director of National Right to Life in Washington D.C. He previously served as executive director of Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life, where he oversaw the passage of many lifesaving bills in Minnesota and spearheaded efforts like MCCL Global Outreach, a UN-accredited international pro-life program. Since attending his first MCCL March for Life in 1977, he has spent his life working in politics and the pro-life movement in various capacities and on every level. Caryn Addante Retired Multi- Fortune 500 Company HR Executive Caryn Addante is an experienced professional, having served as an HR executive at multiple Fortune 500 companies, developing expertise in organization and talent development, mergers and acquisitions, employee relations/engagement, and executive coaching. She is a passionate pro-life advocate who challenges people across all industries to live out their convictions. Luke Spehar Always Intentional Man, Founder & Exec. Director Luke Spehar is an internationally known singer/songwriter and the founder and executive director of AIM (Always Intentional Man), a nonprofit that partners with frontline organizations to support and equip men to be good fathers. Through AIM’s flagship initiative, the Good Father Program, Luke has helped develop a practical, relational, and life coach–based approach to fatherhood formation—one that meets men where they are and challenges them to grow in accountability, responsibility, and intentionality. Ferdinand Uy Pregnancy Choices, Certified Life Coach Ferdinand Uy has served as a certified life coach with Pregnancy Choices for the past 7 years. He works with men in navigating the roller coaster of emotions that come with the news of a pregnancy and connects them with community services that can fill in the gaps of the material needs of their family. He is dedicated to walking alongside men and equipping them to be the partner and father they aspire to be. Dr. Mark Druffner Options for Women, Medical Director Dr. Druffner loves taking care of patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly. He served for 20 years as medical director for Options for Women, a pregnancy resource center in Stillwater, Minnesota, where he began the prenatal program, which includes ultrasound and full prenatal care for pregnant women, including labor and delivery. Dr. Druffner has a calling to serve others, including through medical mission work in Africa. NICU Nurse and Birth Doula Bethie Wolf Bethie Wolf is a NICU RN with 12 years of experience and a birth doula for 5, devoted to supporting families at the very beginning of life. As a mother of four girls with a baby boy on the way, she brings both clinical expertise and deep personal understanding to her care. Her work has also included walking with families through loss, shaping a compassionate, grounded presence in every space she enters. She believes birth and early life are sacred moments, and considers it a privilege to walk on holy ground alongside the families she serves. Women's Life Care Ctr., Nurse Manager Patty Bradway Patty Bradway, RN, BSN, is a registered nurse with 31 years experience in Cardiology at Fairview University of MN Medical Center. Patty joined the Women's Life Care Center of Little Canada in 2019. Patty is the Nurse Manager at this Pregnancy Resource Center and is trained to perform Limited OB Ultrasounds which help confirm pregnancies for women who are looking for resources, options counseling, or material/financial assistance. MCCL, Co-Executive Director Cathy Blaeser Cathy Blaeser is co-executive director of Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL).  She previously lobbied Congress on health care rationing and end-of-life issues for National Right to Life, and has served MCCL as a speaker, consultant, lobbyist, and member of the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors. She has more than a decade of experience in the administrative side of health care and holds a master’s degree from the American Graduate School of International Management. Cathy is also an (almost retired) homeschooling mother of six children. MCCL, Communications Director Paul Stark Paul Stark is the communications director for Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL), the state’s oldest and largest pro-life organization. He contributes regularly to National Right to Life News and LifeNews.com and has been interviewed by the Star Tribune, Minnesota Public Radio, and other TV, radio, and print media outlets. Paul often writes on the ethics of abortion, aiming to make the case for life clear and persuasive. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in philosophy. CliftonLarsonAllen, Assurance Associate Taylor McCoy Taylor is an Assurance Associate at CliftonLarsonAllen, where she serves a range of clients in State and Local Government. She graduated from the University of Northwestern-St. Paul, where she had the privilege of serving on the campus pro-life club leadership team. The best part of leading that club was building great relationships and creating opportunities for people to serve and spread awareness. She is passionate about putting her pro-life beliefs into action by providing support to moms, kids, and community members. Carrena Falls MCCL, Graphic Designer Carrena Falls is a graphic designer and a graduate of the University of Northwestern, where she served as president of the Eagles for Life club. While pursuing a double major in Graphic Design and Art, she earned recognition through several national pro-life student fellowships and mentorship programs. Carrena has experience designing for a variety of prominent cause-based organizations nationwide, executing a wide range of creative projects including digital ads, print materials, billboards, and even a fully illustrated children’s book. Carrena currently works full-time as a graphic designer for MCCL, where she uses her skills to promote pro-life values in Minnesota. Zach Borneke MCCL, Legislative Associate & State PAC Coordinator Zach Borneke is a graduate of the University of Minnesota and now serves as a Legislative Associate and State PAC Coordinator at MCCL. During his time as a political science student, he led as an officer of the Students for Human Life Club, where he organized outreach and events for the group. He gained valuable experience interning for United States Congressman Brad Finstad, with a focus on constituent communications. In Zach’s time with MCCL, he has furthered the pro-life mission through managing numerous research projects, authoring informational articles, and lobbying for pro-life legislation. Rep. Max Rymer Representative Max Rymer is a legislator for Minnesota District 28B and a seasoned entrepreneur. After earning his BS in Marketing from the University of Northwestern, he launched his own digital agency in 2016 and later co-founded the John Galt Mortgage Company in 2023. Beyond the House floor, Rep. Rymer is a veteran of the campaign trail, having sharpened the digital and web strategies for numerous legislative and statewide candidates across Minnesota. MN State Representative Featured Organizations Secular Pro-Life is a non-religious organization dedicated to advancing the pro-life cause. They primarily work to advance secular pro-life arguments and strive to create space for individuals who identify as "non-traditional" pro-lifers. Secular Pro-Life supports a large community of individuals from varied backgrounds and viewpoints who collaborate to promote the value of human life. Seven Weeks Coffee is America’s pro-life coffee company, producing high-quality coffee while supporting pro-life organizations around the country with every purchase. Their delicious coffee is direct trade, 100% organically farmed, pesticide-free, and mold-free. Seven Weeks will have a table with free hot coffee for all Life Launch attendees! Guiding Star Wakota is a life-affirming, comprehensive health center serving women and families in northern Dakota County and Ramsey County, with an active presence in West Side Saint Paul’s Latino community. In the past two years, they’ve had nearly 14,000 client visits, providing a variety of services including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, parenting classes, mental health services, and fertility awareness education. Prenatal Partners for Life is an organization of concerned individuals committed to advocating on behalf of children with adverse diagnoses and their families. Among many things, they raise awareness about the mistreatment of children with disabilities, share health and adoption resources, and support families with special-needs children. Pro-Life Action Ministries is an organization committed to defending the unborn, primarily through sidewalk counseling and peaceful prayer outside of abortion facilities across Minnesota. They were the first organized sidewalk counseling ministry in the nation, and in their 45 years of work, they have confirmed over 3,800 babies saved. Women’s Care Center is the largest chain of pregnancy resource centers in the country, with two locations in the state of Minnesota. Women’s Care Center provides free-of-cost pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, options counseling, parenting classes, material support, and more – all in a welcoming environment that leads 92% of women to choose life for their babies. Located in Apple Valley, Pregnancy Choices is a dedicated pregnancy resource center and AAA-certified outpatient clinic. As the first provider of the Good Father Program, they provide specialized support for fathers alongside a robust life coaching initiative for both men and women. Their facility offers a wide range of over 250 resources designed to support women, children, and families. Frequently Asked Questions Is this free? Yes! Can I bring my kids? Yes, families are very welcome. The subject matter does include heavy topics like abortion and infanticide, but nothing explicit or graphic. How long is the presentation? The presentation is expected to be about an hour. You are encouraged to ask questions at the end. Will this be recorded? At this time, there is no guarantee that a recorded version of the presentation will be made available. Try to attend one of the in-person meetings. How will I know if the event is canceled due to weather or other circumstances? In the unlikely event of a cancellation, we will email those in the area (in addition to posting on this webpage). Please make sure you are on our email list by subscribing at mccl.org/signup. How can I help promote the meeting in my area? Contact MCCL at mccl@mccl.org or 612-825-6831, and we will provide you with promotional materials. What is Life Leadership Camp? Life Leadership Camp is a pro-life summer camp for high school and middle school students that includes educational sessions, fun outdoor games, engaging activities, and more, covering abortion and other right-to-life issues. Students will learn about pro-life activism, leadership, and engaging others in dialogue to impact hearts and minds, while making new friends and networking with other pro-life students from across the state. They will gain the knowledge and tools to become effective pro-life advocates and lead pro-life student groups at their own schools. When is Life Leadership Camp? June 22-25 (high school) OR August 9-12 (middle school), 2026. Camp begins at 3:00 p.m. on the first day and ends at noon on the last. Where will it be held? Koronis Ministries (15752 County Rd. 181, Paynesville, MN 56362) What does it cost? $100 per student (includes meals, accommodations, materials, and T-shirt); scholarships are available. Who can attend Life Leadership Camp? August 9-12 camp: Incoming 6th graders through outgoing 8th graders. How do I register? Register online on this page (above), or complete the paper registration and other required forms and mail with suggested donation to: MCCL, 4249 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55409. When is the registration deadline? The registration deadline is Aug. 3 (for the middle school camp), or when camp reaches capacity. Registration for the high school camp is now closed. We will contact you shortly after the deadline with a packing list, directions to the camp, and other relevant information. Who sponsors Life Leadership Camp? Life Leadership Camp is sponsored by Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL), Minnesota’s oldest and largest pro-life organization and the sole Minnesota affiliate of the National Right to Life Committee. Who will be leading Life Leadership Camp? MCCL's Ministry Safe-trained staff will lead the camp. MCCL staff and special guest speakers will lead sessions. What will the day look like? Starting at 9 a.m. and finishing by 5 p.m., Life Launch will include informational pro-life sessions, networking opportunities, tables featuring local pro-life organizations, giveaways, a catered lunch, and more–all within the Mall of America's Executive Center overlooking Nickelodeon Universe. Tentative Schedule: (Subject to change) 9:00 am – Check-in & Breakfast 9:30 am – General Session 1: Welcome & Purpose by Cathy Blaeser 10:00 am – Breakout Session 1 (choose one): The Euthanasia Threat by Paul Stark OR Pro-Life:From Campus to Career (Panel) 10:45 am – Coffee Break 11:00 am – General Session 2: The Big Picture by Scott Fischbach and Cathy Blaeser 12:00 pm – Luncheon 1:00 pm – Keynote: Building Bridges by Monica Snyder 2:00 pm – Breakout Session 2 (choose one): Life in the Legislature by Rep. Max Rymer OR The Impact of Men’s Voices (Panel) 2:45 pm – Coffee Break 3:00 pm – Breakout Session 3 (choose one): Engaging Everyone by Monica Snyder OR Navigating the Health Sector (Panel) 3:45 pm – Coffee Break 4:00 pm – General Session 3: Career and Conviction by Caryn Andante 5:00 pm – Dismissal What topics will be covered? Topics covered in general or breakout sessions will include: how to persuasively reach those who don't agree with us the fight for Life in Minnesota, nationwide, and globally making a difference after college how men can (and must) get involved being pro-life in the corporate world navigating a healthcare career with pro-life conviction the threat of assisted suicide and more Who is the conference for? The Life Launch conference is intended for pro-life college students and young adults embarking on their careers—roughly those in the range of 18-25 years old. Who is responsible for this conference? Life Launch is sponsored by Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL), the state's oldest and largest pro-life organization and the Minnesota affiliate of the National Right to Life Committee. Will there be food? The conference will include Dunkin' Donuts and coffee in the morning, catered lunch from CRAVE, and coffee and snacks throughout the day. Are there scholarships available? Yes! Contact MCCL at mccl@mccl.org and we will make sure you're able to come. I'm having trouble paying for/arranging transportation. Is there assistance available? MCCL can subsidize the cost of transportation. Contact us at mccl@mccl.org with your request. Do I need to stay the whole time? We encourage you to stay through the day, but you are free to leave if needed. Find Life Launch promotional materials here .

This research must be conducted within ethical boundaries that respect the equal dignity of all human beings. THE CASE AGAINST EMBRYO DESTRUCTION Scientific and medical research—including stem cell research —is important and valuable work, but this research must be conducted within ethical boundaries that respect the equal dignity of all human beings. Here's why research that requires the destruction of human embryos should be rejected. This baby was adopted as an embryo Why embryos should not be destroyed The destruction of human embryos for embryonic stem cell (ESC) research should be opposed for two reasons. First, it is unnecessary. Research with adult stem cells, which is ethically unproblematic because it does not involve the destruction of human life, has already led to successful treatments for patients with dozens of different conditions. By contrast, ESC research has yet to produce any successful human treatments. Moreover, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) seem to offer the same theoretical benefits as ESCs—they are pluripotent and can be genetically matched to a potential patient (like ESCs from cloned embryos)—but without any ethical controversy. Second, ESC research is unethical because it requires the killing of human embryos. As a matter of biological fact, a human embryo—whether a result of natural fertilization, in vitro fertilization, or somatic cell nuclear transfer (cloning)—is a distinct, living, and whole (though immature) human organism. The embryo is an individual member of the species Homo sapiens at the embryonic stage of his or her development. Each of us was once an embryo. "An important fact of embryology that is crucial for you to know," explains Dr. Micheline Mathews-Roth of Harvard Medical School, "is that each member of the human species indeed starts his or her existence as one cell, the zygote; and that this fact applies whether the zygote was formed by the union of egg and sperm in the mother's body, or in a petri dish in the process of [in vitro fertilization], or by the processes of reproductive or therapeutic cloning." Moreover, all human beings—regardless of age, size, appearance, location (e.g., a petri dish), and method of creation—have intrinsic value and deserve respect. They are not raw material to treat as a mere means to an end. They should not be killed so that their parts can be used for the theoretical benefit of others. So-called "therapeutic cloning"—creating cloned human embryos to destroy for their stem cells—is even worse than ordinary embryo-destructive research (which utilizes leftover embryos from fertility clinics). Cloning is the deliberate manufacturing of human beings solely in order to exploit and destroy them. It is a total commodification of human life. Cloning also requires harvesting large numbers of eggs from women. This process poses risks to women's health and can threaten their future fertility. And the offer of payment for eggs can lead to the exploitation of low-income women. Answering the arguments for embryo destruction Proponents of embryo-destructive research tout the potential medical benefits of such research. But these benefits are largely speculative and overstated—no successful treatments have yet been developed using embryonic stem cells—while alternative research with adult stem cells has already proven highly successful. Regardless, even the best goal cannot justify any means. No one would consider killing and harvesting useful parts from mentally disabled adults, even if it would save the lives of many other people. If embryos are valuable human beings, like disabled adults, then killing them for research, even to achieve an admirable goal, is unjust. Another popular justification for embryonic stem cell research is that there are many "spare" or "excess" embryos—left over from in vitro fertilization—that will likely be frozen indefinitely or thrown away. Rather than discarding them, advocates argue, we ought to use them for research that could benefit others. But this argument fails for multiple reasons. First, leftover embryos need not be discarded or killed for research—they can be adopted by loving parents. In an embryo adoption , an embryo is transferred into the uterus of an adoptive mother and given the opportunity to grow up. This is a life-giving option for infertile couples and couples wishing to adopt, and it offers embryos a chance at life. The Snowflakes Embryo Adoption Program and others like it have facilitated the adoption of thousands of frozen human embryos. Second, even assuming that embryos will die anyway, we are not justified in slicing them up for experimentation. No one suggests that we kill and extract organs from terminally ill patients, death row inmates, or dying soldiers on the battlefield, even though they are "going to die anyway." Human beings ought to be treated with dignity and respect, not farmed for their useful parts. Related articles: Stem cell research and human cloning The embryo rescue argument fails to show that some humans are expendable The case against abortion

MCCL educates and equips pro-life young people with Student Day, Life Leadership Camp, essay and oratory contests, and more. YOUTH PROGRAMS MCCL's youth camp 2015 MCCL provides a number of programs and events designed to educate and equip young people. School and church presentations : MCCL speakers give pro-life presentations to public and private high school classes and church youth groups. Student Day at the Capitol : This annual event offers students a day of pro-life education and lobbying at the state Capitol. Life Leadership Camp : MCCL conducts a pro-life summer camp for high school students. Essay + Oratory Contests : The annual essay and oratory contests invite students to prepare a compelling pro-life essay or speech. ‘At Every Stage’ curriculum : MCCL's pro-life textbook is appropriate for high school students as well as adults. Children's coloring books : MCCL provides a pro-life coloring book for small children. Internships : MCCL's internship program offers college students professional experience in the pro-life movement. Contact MCCL to see if an internship is available.

As science, technology, and medicine continue to advance, human life must be respected and protected at every stage and in every condition. STEM CELL RESEARCH + HUMAN CLONING In recent years, stem cell research and related bioethical issues have posed new ethical challenges. As science, technology, and medicine continue to advance, human life must be respected and protected at every stage and in every condition. What are stem cells? A stem cell is an unspecialized cell with two unique abilities: to become different types of cells, such as heart, blood, or nerve cells to self-renew, dividing and creating more stem cells Stem cells are found in many places throughout the body. They usually function to replace dead cells and repair damaged tissues. In young organisms (embryos), stem cells give rise to the different organs and tissues of the body as it develops. Some stem cells are multipotent , which means that they can become only a limited number of cell types—usually cells within a specific tissue type. Stem cells found in the adult body (adult stem cells) are usually multipotent. Other stem cells are pluripotent , which means that they can theoretically become all of the cells types of the body. These cells are found in young embryos (embryonic stem cells). Scientists seek to harvest stem cells in order to use them for research and medical therapies. Scientists aim to transform stem cells into the tissue types targeted by disease or injury and transplant them into patients’ bodies, where they can work to repair damaged organs and body systems. Types of stem cells Adult (or non-embryonic) stem cells (ASCs): These stem cells have traditionally been called “adult stem cells” even though they are present in both adults and children. ASCs are found in various tissues such as bone marrow, skin, and fat. They are also found in umbilical cord blood, placentas, and amniotic fluid. No harm is done to people when ASCs are extracted from them for research or therapies. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs): These cells are found in the “inner cell mass” portion of a young embryo about five days after fertilization, which is called a blastocyst. ESC researchers derive the stem cells from the embryo and culture them in the laboratory. Most embryos used for ESC research were created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) at fertility clinics and then donated for research (because they were “left over” and the parents did not want to implant them). Embryos can also be created by cloning (somatic cell nuclear transfer) specifically in order to derive their stem cells. These stem cells are sought because they would be genetically (nearly) identical to a patient. (See “Human cloning” below.) ESC research is unethical because it requires killing the embryo in order to derive the stem cells. Human ESCs were first derived at the University of Wisconsin in 1998. Stem cells from cloned human embryos were first derived by a team of Oregon scientists in 2013. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs): In a major breakthrough, researchers in 2007 announced that they had taken adult cells and genetically “reprogrammed” them to become pluripotent stem cells, virtually equivalent to ESCs. These induced pluripotent stem cells seem to offer the same theoretical benefits as ESCs from cloned embryos—they can be taken from a patient’s own body, so they are genetically matched to that patient—but they do not require the destruction of human embryos or human cloning. Japanese scientist Shinya Yamanaka won a Nobel Prize in 2012 for his discovery of the iPSC technique. Human cloning In 1996 Dr. Ian Wilmut famously used the cloning process called somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) to create Dolly the sheep, the first adult mammal created by that method. In SCNT, the nucleus of an egg is removed and replaced with the nucleus from a somatic cell (a body cell other than an egg or sperm cell). The DNA from the somatic cell gives the egg a full complement of 46 chromosomes. The egg is then stimulated using electricity or chemicals, and, if successful, it begins dividing as a new embryo. The new organism is genetically virtually identical to the individual from whom the somatic cell was taken. After the first isolation of human ESCs in 1998, researchers envisioned using SCNT to create cloned human embryos whose ESCs could be extracted for research and therapies. By using somatic cells from patients (people suffering from diseases or conditions that stem cells might help treat), cloned embryos could be created whose stem cells would be genetically matched to those patients, possibly preventing rejection by the immune system. (See “The benefits of stem cells” below.) Human cloning offered the chance to create “patient-specific” pluripotent stem cells. Traditionally, a distinction has been made between “reproductive cloning” and “therapeutic cloning.” In reproductive cloning, the embryo created by SCNT would be implanted in a woman’s uterus with the intention that it develop toward maturity and become a fetus, infant, child, and so on. Almost everyone opposes human cloning for this purpose. On the other hand, many researchers and advocates support therapeutic cloning, in which the human embryo created by SCNT is destroyed in order to extract stem cells for research and (potentially) therapies. This is the kind of human cloning that many researchers have pursued. The only difference between the two kinds is whether the cloned embryo is allowed to grow and develop (reproductive cloning) or is killed for research (therapeutic cloning). Technical problems have hindered human “therapeutic cloning” research. One problem is that cloning requires a large number of human eggs, which must be harvested from women. This procedure poses risks to women’s health. A cloning breakthrough finally arrived in 2013 when researchers at Oregon Health & Science University announced that they had successfully isolated stem cells from cloned human embryos. But the announcement came after breakthroughs in non-controversial stem cell research—especially the creation of iPSCs, which are also patient-specific pluripotent stem cells—had made the quest for human cloning seem unnecessary. The therapeutic benefits of stem cells Embryonic stem cells have often been touted as superior to adult stem cells because they are pluripotent—they can become virtually any kind of cell—and they have a greater capacity for proliferation (they can divide almost indefinitely). But this same flexibility and rapid growth have created serious obstacles to the use of ESCs for medical therapies. ESCs tend to form tumors when transplanted, and scientists have had difficulty coaxing ESCs into the right kind of differentiated cells. ESCs may also be rejected by a patient’s immune system because they are not genetically identical to the patient. Human cloning could possibly solve the rejection problem, but the other difficulties remain. Some human clinical trials using ESCs are underway, but no successful treatments have yet been developed using embryonic stem cells. Induced pluripotent stem cells are nearly identical to ESCs, so they tend to have both the same potential advantages and the same challenges. Like stem cells from cloned embryos, however, iPSCs can genetically match a patient and possibly avoid the problem of immune rejection. Moreover, creating iPSCs seems to be easier and more efficient than deriving ESCs from either IVF- or SCNT-produced embryos. So iPSCs may offer practical advantages over research with human embryos. Adult stem cells are typically multipotent rather than pluripotent, but they have proven to be more flexible than expected. And they tend not to have the major problems that afflict ESCs. ASCs are more stable and do not form tumors, and they can be taken from a patient’s own body and then transplanted into sick or damaged tissue, avoiding the possibility of immune rejection. ASCs can also be taken from a tissue-matched donor. Adult stem cells are the only kind that has successfully treated human patients. The stem cells contained in bone marrow, for example, have been treating people who suffer from leukemia and other diseases for decades. These bone marrow transplants have saved thousands of lives. Stem cells from umbilical cord blood have also treated thousands of patients. As of 2014, more than 60,000 people worldwide each year receive adult stem cell transplants. ASCs have now been used to treat dozens of different conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, lupus, multiple sclerosis, brain cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, heart disease, sickle cell anemia, stroke damage, Parkinson’s disease, and spinal cord injury. (Most of these therapies are treatments, not cures, however, and many adult stem cell treatments are experimental and are not yet generally approved and available.) Funding should support adult stem cell research ASCs are currently successfully treating diseases and offer hope for many more therapies in the future. ESCs have not yet produced any proven medical treatments, but they may still be useful for studying diseases and other research. These same benefits, however, can be achieved using iPSCs, which do not require the destruction of human embryos or human cloning. Embryonic stem cell research is both unethical and simply unnecessary to realize the promise of stem cell research. The main political and public policy debate concerning stem cell research has involved its public funding. Both ESC and ASC research are currently funded by the federal government. Funding should be directed solely to ethical ASC and iPSC research, not research that requires the destruction of human life. In Minnesota, scientists at the University of Minnesota conduct stem cell research of all kinds. They should focus their efforts on ethical, effective research with ASCs and IPSCs. Additional articles: The case against embryo destruction Photo: ucsc.edu