Meaning: The quote "She goes through the vale of death alone, each time a babe is born. As it is the right neither of man nor the state to coerce her into this ordeal, so it is her right to decide whether she will endure it." by Margaret Sanger, an activist and advocate for birth control and women's reproductive rights, reflects her belief in a woman's autonomy and right to make decisions about her own body and reproductive choices. The quote highlights the physical and emotional burden that women bear in childbirth and emphasizes the importance of women having the freedom to choose whether or not to undergo this experience.

Margaret Sanger was a prominent figure in the early 20th century who campaigned for women's access to birth control and reproductive health services. She was a strong advocate for women's rights and believed that women should have the right to control their own bodies and fertility. The quote captures her stance on the issue of childbirth and the right of women to make their own choices regarding pregnancy and childbirth.

Sanger's assertion that a woman "goes through the vale of death alone, each time a babe is born" acknowledges the profound physical and emotional challenges of childbirth. The phrase "vale of death" conveys the seriousness and intensity of the childbirth experience, highlighting the potential risks and sacrifices that women face in bringing new life into the world. By using this powerful imagery, Sanger underscores the gravity of the childbirth process and the individual nature of the woman's experience.

Furthermore, Sanger's declaration that "it is the right neither of man nor the state to coerce her into this ordeal" reinforces the idea that women should not be compelled or forced into the experience of childbirth against their will. This aligns with her broader advocacy for women's autonomy and bodily autonomy, asserting that decisions about childbirth should not be dictated by external forces such as men or government authorities. Instead, Sanger emphasizes the importance of respecting women's agency and decision-making in matters related to their reproductive health.

The quote concludes with Sanger's affirmation that "it is her right to decide whether she will endure it," emphasizing the fundamental principle of women's right to choose. By framing the decision to endure childbirth as a matter of individual choice and agency, Sanger champions the idea that women should have the freedom to make their own decisions about the challenges and responsibilities of motherhood. This assertion aligns with Sanger's broader advocacy for women's reproductive rights and her belief in the importance of access to contraception and family planning.

In summary, Margaret Sanger's quote encapsulates her unwavering commitment to women's autonomy and reproductive freedom. It underscores the physical and emotional weight of childbirth, while asserting that women should have the right to make their own choices regarding pregnancy and childbirth. Sanger's words continue to resonate in discussions about women's rights, reproductive health, and the ongoing pursuit of gender equality.