Re: Protecting our Patients

[Lea Terhune]

I've asked many other activists to share their opinions, and have received further information from Planned Parenthood also (see below).

I separate the cause from the ordinance, because I think all targets of protest rightfully expect to receive equal protection under the law. Whether you are a patient at a health care office, or a client at a bank ,or a taxpayer at city hall, should not make a difference. I think Patient Safety Zone is a slippery slope.

Lea

On Mon, May 21, 2012 at 10:23 AM, Krowinski, Jill <jkrow...@ppnne.org> wrote:

Hi Lea,

 ..... 

 

When we moved our Planned Parenthood health center from Mansfield Ave to St Paul Street last fall, the protest activity increased.  We have been working with the police for several months and unfortunately, it has not improved the situation.  Currently, patients and staff have been physically approached and verbally harassed as they enter into the Burlington Health Center, creating a serious public safety issue. Witnesses have also seen protestors trespassing on private property in an effort to approach patients. Protestors are going as far as giving misinformation to patients seeking abortion care, telling them they’ll never be able to have children if they have an abortion, which is completely false and is a scare tactic.

 

We’ve been working with lawyers for months to ensure we have a safety zone which protects the privacy and safety of patients and staff, while also preserving the rights of individual freedom of speech.  The Patient Safety Zone creates a protected 35-foot, fixed zone around the entrances and driveways of reproductive health care facilities in Burlington.

 

I hope this helps explain why we are asking the city for help. 

 

Thanks,

Jill

 

 

Jill Krowinski, Director of Vermont Public Affairs

Planned Parenthood of Northern New England

Planned Parenthood of Northern New England Action Fund
128 Lakeside | Burlington, Vermont 05401
O: 802-448-9746 | C: 802-598-4182

www.ppnne.org | jill.kr...@ppnne.org