Jane Harman: “the right of a woman to exercise control over her own body is a freedom just as important as other fundamental rights…”

“the right of a woman to exercise control over her own body is a freedom just as important as other fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution, like the freedom of speech and practice of religion. Some disagree with this view, and I respect their right to express their opinions and to peacefully demonstrate against the exercise of rights, including those guaranteed by the Constitution. But the expression of principled objection and discussion of ideas must not intimidate or inflict harm on others who seek to express opposite views or exercise the right to obtain reproductive health services legally available to them. We cannot allow the entrances of reproductive health clinics to continue to serve as battlegrounds. A physical battle is being waged out there, and we need to do something to stop it. Patients deserve unobstructed access to the services they need. Health clinic workers have a right to work in a safe environment. The Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act, or 'FACE,' provides them with reasonable remedies to advance these commonsense rights. And the time for these remedies is now.”