On Sunday afternoon, in single-digit temperatures, two groups of protestors faced off across Dearborn Street over abortion rights. On the south side of the street, in Federal Plaza, behind a banner that read “Human Life Has Value,” was the March for Life. On the north side, on the sidewalk beside the Dirksen Federal Building, behind a banner that read “Abortion is Healthcare” was a pro-choice counterprotest. Both groups planned to march the same route through the Loop, up Dearborn to Lake and then back down State Street, past several state and federal buildings and City Hall. Not that any sane person would have stood around outside in the frigid cold to watch, though drivers along Dearborn honked and rolled down their windows to shout words of encouragement.
All the speakers emphasized the need for greater activism around the issue, especially with the Supreme Court preparing to decide Whole Woman’s Health vs. Cole on March 2, and warned the crowd not to believe politicians and their promises, especially in an election year. Thayer listed the many campaign promises President Obama has broken since he was elected.
“All kinds of people have abortions for all kinds of reasons,” she said. Added Rachel, a FURIE leader: “Three-quarters of women who have abortions say it’s because they don’t have enough income to support a child.”
“Oh, no it’s not,” said one of the latecomers. She was holding a sign that read, “Abortion hurts women.” She smiled pityingly at the pro-choice marchers. “We love you guys,” she said.
The March for Life had left Federal Plaza by the time the counterprotesters made their circuit and gathered again in front of the Barnes & Noble at DePaul Center. A few more marchers got up to speak.
