WORCESTER – The U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe V. Wade brought residents of Worcester out in force in protest on Friday. Hundreds of protesters covered the plaza outside of Worcester City Hall as part of a demonstration organized by the Worcester branch of the Independent Socialist Group.
Members of the Massachusetts Nurses Association and the Green-Rainbow Party of Massachusetts also participated in the event. Mayor Joseph Petty, City Councilor Etel Haxhiaj and state Senate candidate Robyn Kennedy were also in attendance.
“We demand rights over our bodies; we demand that the Supreme Court reinstate abortion freedoms and stop trying to control what I do with my body. If lawmakers cared about life, we would have strict gun laws, but they don’t. My body is my choice!” Community activist Nelly Medina told the crowd during her speech.
Speakers from several groups spoke in support of the reinstatement of abortion rights while condemning the court ruling. Nearby drivers on Main Street stopped to honk in support of the protest throughout the event.
Gov. Charlie Baker joined many state residents in his condemnation of the court’s decision.
“I am deeply disappointed in today’s decision by the Supreme Court which will have major consequences for women across the country who live in states with limited access to reproductive health care services,” said Baker, after signing an executive order on reproductive health in Massachusetts on Friday.
