PROTEST TO DRAW OVER A THOUSAND OUTSIDE PLANNED PARENTHOOD CLINIC IN SAINT PAUL

St. Paul, MN – Today crowds will gather to protest outside of the Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Paul in an organized attempt to harass and intimidate patients in need of essential health care services. The protests, led by Pro-Life Action Ministries, have occurred every year for more than two decades.

"Planned Parenthood has served Minnesotans for more than 80 years, providing health care, education and advocacy to women and families across the state. We are the leading provider and champion of women’s health care across Minnesota. We have been an established and respected member of this community since 1928 and we are here to stay,” said Planned Parenthood President and CEO Sarah Stoesz.

“Last year alone, PPMNS provided more than 300,000 units of contraception and nearly 20,000 breast cancer and cervical cancer screenings to women across our region. Every day we work to strengthen the health and well being of women and families through strengthening public health and broadening access to preventive care,” said Stoesz.

Minnesotans have joined with Planned Parenthood to support its work during the protest. A multi-faith pro-choice prayer service will be held by a diverse group of religious organizations seeking to show support for PPMNS and the women we serve.

The service will be held at 10:00 a.m.

Supporters have chosen to “Pledge- a- Protestor” this year, designating a pledge amount for each protestor that shows up outside of the clinic on Friday. The money raised will assist Planned Parenthood in its commitment to the patients it serves. Staff and supporters of PPMNS are also asked to bring items for a food drive to benefit a local food shelf.

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Contact: Kathi Di Nicola 651-755-9557.