On June 3, dozens of people rallied in downtown Los Angeles to protest the unjust murder of abortion provider, Dr. George Tiller, and the ongoing right-wing terrorism and violence directed against women and health care professionals.
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Representatives from Planned Parenthood—the organizers of the demonstration and press conference—spoke against the budget cuts threatening the shutdown of clinics and health centers. There was also a moment of silence that was held in memory of Dr. Tiller.
In the last 30 years, there have been close to 6,000 reported acts of violence ranging from targeted assassinations, bombings, numerous death threats, arson, assaults and kidnappings against Women’s health care providers.
Thousands of women are assaulted and harassed by right-wing bigots as they try to see doctors. Dr. Tiller’s murder is a reminder to women and all men that stand against anti-woman bigotry that the struggle is not over.
Chants of “1-2-3-4, don’t make clinics shut their doors, 5-6-7-8, women’s lives are what’s at stake,” were loudly heard through the busy LA streets, while onlookers joined and passing cars honked in support.
Susana Hernandez told PSLweb.org, “We need to honor Dr. Tiller’s work and protect women’s rights.” She added, “We need to voice our stance against budget cuts that affect family planning and women’s issues.”
The rally culminated with a picket line and loud chants, demanding justice for the murder of Dr. Tiller and an end to budget cuts. The work of Dr. Tiller, along with the struggle for Women’s rights, will continue.
Defend Women’s Rights! Justice for Dr. Tiller!
