KWCH - Kansas News and Weather - Both Sides of Abortion Issue Reflect on Impact of Shooting
Member Center:
by Denise Hnytka (WICHITA, Kan)
At the center of Dr. George Tiller's murder is an issue that's divided the nation for decades. But there's one thing both sides of abortion agree on. They're speaking out against the killing and wondering how this will impact their efforts in the future.
Abortion rights groups say George Tiller's death is a loss for all women. As one of only a handful of late-term abortion providers, they say women will have a harder time getting access to reproductive health care. Anti-abortion groups say the killing re-enforces stereotypes that their effort is based on extremism.
Both sides of a divisive issue find common ground in the sudden death of Dr. George Tiller.
"To use violence, to kill someone, is not ever okay," said Peter Brownlie, Planned Parenthood.
"Killing isn't part of saving lives," said Pat Turner, Kansas Right to Life. "We never encouraged anyone to do it."
This isn't the way the two side wanted to come together. They worry that in the end, it will only further divide them.
"The majority of those who call themselves pro-choice have already jumped to the conclusion that its pro-lifers behind this," said Turner.
"Those opposed to abortion distort this issue terribly, for political advantage," said Brownlie. "What they describe isn't close to truth."
Brownlie said he knew Tiller personally and knew of the threats he faced. He calls them acts of domestic terrorism.
"I'm sad that people who provide medical care to women have to live in fear," he said.
Turner says those extremists aren't a reflection of their views and only hurt their cause.
"Our first prayer was for George Tiller's conversion. Killing isn't part of saving lives, and we never encouraged anyone to do it," said Turner.
US Attorney General Eric Holder said federal investigators plan to assist in the case. He's also ordered US Marshals to help provide protection to other abortion clinics around the country.
