Planned Parenthood Clinic Under Attack

Planned Parenthood is asking for volunteers and other forms of help for their beleaguered clinic in Aurora, Illinois, near Chicago. This clinic has apparently been targeted for closure by anti-choice zealots.

The Aurora area is home to some of the most radical anti-abortion extremists including Joe Scheidler, founder of the Pro-Life Action League. Scheidler made his name in 1980’s when he called for the "year of pain and fear" for reproductive health care providers and patients. And on August 25, hundreds of anti-choice extremists picketed near the site of the clinic as part of a "40-day prayer vigil" to protest the opening.

Women's reproductive rights have long been targeted by right-wing and reactionary forces in society. The mobilization of religious or political bigots calling themselves "pro-life" is obscene in and of itself, but their action must be countered by the defense of women's clinics by everyone in the community: church, union, organizations of all kinds.

Individuals are encouraged to come participate in the clinic's defense:

If you live in Illinois, you can do even more to help us on the ground. Sign up to volunteer locally and pick up a sign to post in your yard. The signs say "This family supports Planned Parenthood." Here's where you can pick up your sign:

Aurora Planned Parenthood Health Center
3051 E. New York Ave., Aurora, IL
(at the corner of New York Ave. and Oakhurst St.)
Monday thru Thurs.: 12 pm to 2 pm & 5 pm to 7 pm
Friday & Saturday: 12 pm to 2 pm