I wish to sincerely apologize to Mr. Greg Chesmore of Chicago (“Protest Has Its Place,” Letters, Nov. 17-23), and any other hardworking, faithful pro-life person who was unhappy with the interview I gave to Tim Drake in the Register (“Challenging Pro-Lifers to Change,” Oct. 6-12).

Even though an interview [sometimes] represents the interpretation of the reporter, and not the exact words of the interviewee, I was allowed the opportunity to review Mr. Drake's article before it went to press, and so I take full responsibility for any misunderstanding.

The truth is that I never indicated, as Mr. Chesmore charges, that “there is only one way to be an effective pro-life advocate.” Nor did I “describe picketing abortion facilities as negative and potentially self-righteous” or say anything to suggest that I believe “pro-life legislative and political actions are unsuccessful and not useful.” Even after reading Mr. Drake's interview, I cannot see how Mr. Chesmore interpreted my comments this way. In fact, my comments were not about the activities of public protest or legislative action. They were, rather, about my own naïve and self-righteous attitude as a young activist.

I am truly sorry if Mr. Chesmore believed I had anything at all negative to say about activities in peaceful public protest or lobbying. In truth, I believe these activities are highly necessary when coupled with a mission of education and an attitude of love. In fact, last month, I participated in a public rosary with Bishop Paul Loverde in front of an abortion facility in Arlington, Va. I am also a registered pro-life lobbyist for the state of Washington and have been for the past 10 years.

I deeply regret any injury I may have caused to any member of the pro-life body.

CAMILLE E. DE BLASI Redmond, Washington

The writer is director of the Center for Life Principles.