The justices of the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled that a 2007 Massachusetts law that created a 35-foot buffer zone around abortion clinics violated the First Amendment right to free speech. The McCullen v. Coakley decision is a victory not only for the plaintiff in this case, 77-year-old sidewalk counselor Eleanor McCullen, but for prolife people everywhere. The justices found that the right of free speech, a long-standing principle of individual freedom, had been needlessly encroached upon.
The sole purpose of Right to Life of Michigan is to support and uphold the sanctity of human life; the justices on the U.S. Supreme Court recognized the importance of the freedom to engage in outreach and public advocacy.
RLM is pleased that those volunteers and sidewalk counselors who spend time in front of abortion businesses in Massachusetts will be able to continue their ministry. This decision could make the difference between life and death for the unborn child whose mother has scheduled an abortion.
Prolife people work in many ways, and for some their outreach is being a kind and loving voice for women and families entering abortion businesses. On beautiful sunny days and during cold winter storms, these individuals express the sanctity of human life by being present outside abortion businesses letting mothers know life-affirming options are available.
The McCullen v. Coakley decision is a victory for the First Amendment right to free speech and a victory for the passionate people who stand witness to life.
McCullen v. Coakley Decision
Hobby Lobby Update
On Monday, June 30, 2014, it is expected the justices of the U.S. Supreme Court will hand down their decision in Sebelius v. Hobby Lobby. The Hobby Lobby and Conestoga Wood Specialties decision will determine if businesses can consciously choose the elements of health care plans they provide to employees. At issue are business owners who object on religious grounds to providing certain chemicals or devices which may cause an abortion and are mandated by the Department of Health and Human Services.
Right to Life of Michigan will respond when the U.S. Supreme Court issues a decision on the Hobby Lobby case.
