Today dozens of pro-choice campaigners picketed a small group of anti-abortionists taking part in the 40 days for life movement who have mounted a month long vigil outside the BPAS clinic on Bedford Square.
The anti-abortionists have not just held a ‘prayer vigil’ but have been, in some cases, approaching women entering the clinic and attempting to persuade them not to have an abortion. Many have felt that it is clearly inappropriate to harass women as they go for a medical procedure, particularly at a time when they may be feeling stressed or low.
More importantly this comes in a context where there has been a resurgence in attacks on women’s rights, sex education and issues like gay marriage have been used to promote intolerance in society. Campaigners feel that these rights, where a woman should have control over what happens to her own body, are fundamental to modern British society.
Protest organiser, Kerry Johnson, said that “You look across at America and see what’s going on here and we don’t want to see that come here.”
She said that organising the pro-choice demonstrations over the last few weeks has been going “really well with a much bigger turnout each week. It’s been hard work but worth it. I feel like we’re actually making a bit of difference. This attack on our reproductive rights cannot be allowed to continue.”
This Friday there will be a larger counter-mobilisation to coincide with a vigil with Bishop Alan Hopes at 7 pm in Bedford Square and then on Sunday it will be the last counter-protest (from noon to 4 pm) as 40 days for life will have finished their vigils (until Autumn).
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