40th Anniversary of Abortion Ruling has Both Sides Speaking Out

By: Kim Eiten - Email

Updated: Wed 5:35 AM, Jan 23, 2013

Tuesday marked 40 years in the women's health landmark allowing the right to choose.

It had both those for and against weighing in on abortion.

Pro-life proponents gathered in front of one Lincoln Planned Parenthood building Tuesday.

But, the candlelight vigil they hosted, had extra meaning. It marks 4 decades of a woman's right to choose.

"I had an abortion at a Planned Parenthood 23 years ago and it's been devastating to womens' lives spiritually, physically and emotionally," pro-life supporter Justine Kyker said.

Dozens gathered to let their voices be heard.

"I'd like to see Roe v. Wade overturned and abortion overturned in all 50 states," Kyker said.

While supporters braved the cold, holding candles and praying, Planned Parenthood stands firm in favor of the Supreme Court decision.

"We firmly believe that this choice should be one that a woman makes," Planned Parenthood spokesperson Monica McCafferty said.

The pro-choice movement has been backed by the healthcare provider.

"This issue is much more complex than looking at the two sides of difference of opinions," McCafferty said. "But, from a public health standpoint, contraception is healthy and it supports the entire community being healthier."

While both sides stand firm, the number of abortions in Nebraska continues to fall.

The latest Department of Health and Human Services statistics are from 2011, showing more than 2,300 abortions that year.