Heavenly Differences: 7th Heaven Creates Controversy

Episode of "7th Heaven" on Safe Haven laws sparks controversy

On September 30, 2002, an episode of the popular family-rated television show "7th Heaven" tackled the sensitive issue of Safe Haven laws. These laws allow the anonymous abandonment of newborn babies at locations considered "safe" for the baby, and do not require any identification or history from the person who leaves the baby.

Safe Haven laws have been at the center of controversy in the adoption community and elsewhere since they were originally proposed: opponents stating that they do not address the underlying problems, and can harm women and children; proponents stressing that saving even one child from dying justifies the laws.

On The Dais

Marley Elizabeth Greiner states the case against Safe Haven laws and slams "7th Heaven's" treatment. Greiner is the co-founder and Executive Chair of Bastard Nation: The Adoptee Rights Organization. She is also the editor and publisher of Baby Dump News, a weekly e-newsletter that tracks baby abandonments, Safe Haven legislation, and related topics.

• "7th Heaven" Goes to Hell - Marley Greiner

William L. Pierce, Ph.D. thought Marley had it all wrong, and offered his rebuttal. Pierce was the Executive Director of the USA Committee for IAVAAN, and perhaps best known as the founder and past president of the National Council for Adoption. He was also, among other things, a Senior Fellow with the Discovery Institute, a Seattle, WA, think tank.

• Rebuttal: TV Show Has It Right - William L. Pierce

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