Sen. Susan Collins’ statements on abortion in the article, “Catholic group claims Collins excommunicated” (BDN, Oct. 21), indicates confusion on the issue.

She states that as a Catholic she believes that life begins at conception, but she does not want to impose this belief on others. The humanity of the unborn is not dependent on anyone’s belief or disbelief – religious or otherwise. It is a matter of fact – observable, biological, scientific fact.

She goes on to state that she, “will not make criminals of women” who have abortions. No one has or is advocating punishing women who have abortions as “criminals.” That status has always been reserved for the abortionists who kill unborn children.

As an advocate of women’s rights, Collins should consider that half of the unborn children being killed are female.

Gerald E. Thibodeau

Brewer