As part of a nationwide movement Saturday, women of Lawrence gathered in support of reproductive rights and in protest of laws that aim to restrict abortions.
A sunny Saturday morning gave way to cloudy skies and rain. Regardless, women, girls and people of all ages headed to Watson Park to hear from speakers — including State Sen. Marci Francisco and State Rep. Barbara Ballard, both Lawrence Democrats — and to make their own voices heard. After the speakers, many in attendance marched up and down Massachusetts Street.
They carried signs with messages such as “Bans off our bodies,” “A mother by choice for choice,” “Keep abortion safe” and “I stand with Planned Parenthood.” One sign simply read “Never again,” the words on either side of a wire coat hanger. Another had a longer message: “To all the little girls watching right now: Never doubt that you are valuable & powerful & deserving of every chance in the world.”
The date for the march was selected because the United States Supreme Court will begin a new term Monday and will hear a controversial case that threatens abortion rights in December. Similar events were held all over the country.
Photos by Kylie Graham
