liveaction--2020-04-10--Live Action Sends Letter to North Carolina Governor Condemning Hostility Toward Pro-Life Advocates

Washington , D.C. – Live Action Founder and President , Lila Rose , sent the following letter to Governor Roy Cooper following the arrests of pro-lifers lawfully witnessing outside of abortion businesses operating during the coronavirus .
Pro-life Americans are deeply concerned over the recent spate of citations and arrests of sidewalk advocates in North Carolina .
On March 30th , advocates were cited outside an abortion facility in Greensboro .
On April 4th , several advocates were arrested outside a facility in Charlotte .
These advocates were supposedly in violation of your Executive Order No .
121 ( “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by enforcing social distancing , and suspending most nonessential businesses and activities .
However , we believe sidewalk advocates are in compliance with EO 121 , and further insist that their activities are constitutionally protected by the First and Fourteenth Amendments .
Moreover , we urge you to expressly exclude abortion from North Carolina ’ s definition of essential services to protect the lives of the innocent preborn children killed in abortion facilities .
This will also further EO 121 ’ s goal to stop the spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wasting personal protective equipment ( “ PPE ” ) , and breaching EO 121 ’ s social distancing requirements to carry out abortions .
Yet , abortions are not medically necessary .
Lastly , sidewalk advocates know that their physical presence , public prayer , and witness of faith in front of these facilities changes hearts and minds .
They feel an urgent sense to save preborn lives and to counsel the women entering these facilities .
We suggest you can alleviate their sense of urgency , by simply closing these facilities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 121 EO 121 prohibits public gatherings of more than 10 people in any “ confined indoor or outdoor space , ” and suspends certain nonessential businesses and activities .
However , EO 121 permits several “ outdoor activities ” for individuals , such as “ walking , hiking , golfing , running , or biking , ” or use of public parks and outdoor recreation areas , provided individuals maintain at least a six-foot distance from others .
Under EO 121 , individuals may also travel to places of worship , and volunteer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 121 designates “ religious facilities , entities , groups , [ and ] gatherings ” as essential businesses or operations .
EO 121 also defines “ Human Services Operations ” as essential businesses , including businesses that provide “ social services , and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged individuals.
” EO 121 states that “ Human Services Operations ” shall be “ construed broadly ” to avoid impact on “ human services , broadly defined.
” Sidewalk advocates are volunteers who perform a charitable service outside , not in confined spaces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maintaining the six-foot distance requirement as people walking , hiking , golfing , and biking .
They are also engaged in “ Human Services Operations ” by counseling women on their alternatives to seeking abortion , offering them prayer , assistance , and referrals to pregnancy resource centers .
EO 121 also defines several types of “ Healthcare and Public Health Operations ” as essential services , but does not expressly include abortion facilities in this list .
We believe North Carolina must expressly exclude abortion from its definition of “ essential ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counties from interpreting EO 121 to exempt abortions , and abortion facilities .
Abortion is not healthcare , and it is not essential business .
Moreover , abortion facilities are confined , indoor spaces , where abortionists carry out abortions in close physical proximity to pregnant women .
In addition to killing innocent preborn lives , abortionists are also wasting PPE , which is critically needed to protect real healthcare workers treating COVID-19 patients .
Sidewalk advocates are volunteers who maintain a physical presence outside abortion facilities , persuading women to reconsider abortion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ engage in peaceful , non-coercive means of persuasion such as silent prayer , vocal prayer , holding signs , or offering women directions to nearby pregnancy resource centers .
These advocates are often people of faith , and they are often affiliated with churches , ministries , and other religious organizations .
Religious freedom is protected by the First Amendment from governmental restrictions , and the Fourteenth Amendment applies this religious freedom protection against State governmental restrictions as well .
To this end , public prayer is a form of protected speech , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Sidewalk advocates pray on public streets and sidewalks , which are considered public forums .
Many of these counselors actually pray and counsel from nearby private property , which is also protected from government infringement on religious speech .
Abortion is not an “ Essential ” Service Abortion is not healthcare , it is never medically necessary , and North Carolina should therefore expressly exclude it from “ essential ” services .
Abortion is the killing of a human being in the womb .
This is not a religious belief , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pro-life Americans advance a culture of life based on ethical values and moral beliefs about the intrinsic dignity of human life .
Sidewalk advocates feel morally compelled to save these preborn lives , and they use peaceful , lawful , and constitutionally protected means .
They pray outside abortion facilities , and offer each mother counseling and resources at the critical moment before she chooses abortion .
So long as abortion facilities remain operational , sidewalk advocates will feel an urgent sense of moral duty to counsel women seeking abortion in order to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are essential under EO 121 , they can comply with all social distancing requirements , and most importantly , their constitutional rights must be upheld .
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child .
Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media , human interest stories , and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry .
With the largest online following in the pro-life movement , Live Action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people every week .
Find out more at http : //www.liveaction.org

For Immediate Release
April 10th, 2020
Lauren Enriquez
Communications Manager, Live Action
laurenenriquez@liveaction.org
Live Action Sends Letter to North Carolina Governor Condemning Hostility Toward Pro-Life Advocates
Washington, D.C. – Live Action Founder and President, Lila Rose, sent the following letter to Governor Roy Cooper following the arrests of pro-lifers lawfully witnessing outside of abortion businesses operating during the coronavirus.
_______________
Dear Governor Cooper,
Pro-life Americans are deeply concerned over the recent spate of citations and arrests of sidewalk advocates in North Carolina. On March 30th, advocates were cited outside an abortion facility in Greensboro. On April 4th, several advocates were arrested outside a facility in Charlotte. These advocates were supposedly in violation of your Executive Order No. 121 (“EO 121”), which attempts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by enforcing social distancing, and suspending most nonessential businesses and activities. However, we believe sidewalk advocates are in compliance with EO 121, and further insist that their activities are constitutionally protected by the First and Fourteenth Amendments.
Moreover, we urge you to expressly exclude abortion from North Carolina’s definition of essential services to protect the lives of the innocent preborn children killed in abortion facilities. This will also further EO 121’s goal to stop the spread of COVID-19. Abortion facilities are needlessly wasting personal protective equipment (“PPE”), and breaching EO 121’s social distancing requirements to carry out abortions. Yet, abortions are not medically necessary.
Lastly, sidewalk advocates know that their physical presence, public prayer, and witness of faith in front of these facilities changes hearts and minds. They feel an urgent sense to save preborn lives and to counsel the women entering these facilities. We suggest you can alleviate their sense of urgency, by simply closing these facilities.
Sidewalk Advocates are in Compliance with EO 121
EO 121 prohibits public gatherings of more than 10 people in any “confined indoor or outdoor space,” and suspends certain nonessential businesses and activities. However, EO 121 permits several “outdoor activities” for individuals, such as “walking, hiking, golfing, running, or biking,” or use of public parks and outdoor recreation areas, provided individuals maintain at least a six-foot distance from others.
Under EO 121, individuals may also travel to places of worship, and volunteer with charitable and social services. EO 121 designates “religious facilities, entities, groups, [and] gatherings” as essential businesses or operations. EO 121 also defines “Human Services Operations” as essential businesses, including businesses that provide “social services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged individuals.” EO 121 states that “Human Services Operations” shall be “construed broadly” to avoid impact on “human services, broadly defined.”
Sidewalk advocates are volunteers who perform a charitable service outside, not in confined spaces. Sidewalk advocates are as capable of maintaining the six-foot distance requirement as people walking, hiking, golfing, and biking. They are also engaged in “Human Services Operations” by counseling women on their alternatives to seeking abortion, offering them prayer, assistance, and referrals to pregnancy resource centers.
EO 121 also defines several types of “Healthcare and Public Health Operations” as essential services, but does not expressly include abortion facilities in this list. We believe North Carolina must expressly exclude abortion from its definition of “essential” healthcare services, to prevent cities and counties from interpreting EO 121 to exempt abortions, and abortion facilities. Abortion is not healthcare, and it is not essential business. Moreover, abortion facilities are confined, indoor spaces, where abortionists carry out abortions in close physical proximity to pregnant women. In addition to killing innocent preborn lives, abortionists are also wasting PPE, which is critically needed to protect real healthcare workers treating COVID-19 patients.
Sidewalk Advocates are Constitutionally Protected
Sidewalk advocates are volunteers who maintain a physical presence outside abortion facilities, persuading women to reconsider abortion. Live Action stands with advocates who engage in peaceful, non-coercive means of persuasion such as silent prayer, vocal prayer, holding signs, or offering women directions to nearby pregnancy resource centers. These advocates are often people of faith, and they are often affiliated with churches, ministries, and other religious organizations.
Religious freedom is protected by the First Amendment from governmental restrictions, and the Fourteenth Amendment applies this religious freedom protection against State governmental restrictions as well. To this end, public prayer is a form of protected speech, and restricting public prayer constitutes viewpoint discrimination. Sidewalk advocates pray on public streets and sidewalks, which are considered public forums. Many of these counselors actually pray and counsel from nearby private property, which is also protected from government infringement on religious speech.
Abortion is not an “Essential” Service
Abortion is not healthcare, it is never medically necessary, and North Carolina should therefore expressly exclude it from “essential” services. Abortion is the killing of a human being in the womb. This is not a religious belief, but a provable scientific fact. However, pro-life Americans advance a culture of life based on ethical values and moral beliefs about the intrinsic dignity of human life. Sidewalk advocates feel morally compelled to save these preborn lives, and they use peaceful, lawful, and constitutionally protected means. They pray outside abortion facilities, and offer each mother counseling and resources at the critical moment before she chooses abortion.
So long as abortion facilities remain operational, sidewalk advocates will feel an urgent sense of moral duty to counsel women seeking abortion in order to protect innocent preborn lives. Their activities are essential under EO 121, they can comply with all social distancing requirements, and most importantly, their constitutional rights must be upheld.
Sincerely,
Lila Rose
Founder & President
Live Action
_______________
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child. Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media, human interest stories, and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry. With the largest online following in the pro-life movement, Live Action’s videos and content reach millions of people every week. Find out more at http://www.liveaction.org
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liveaction--2020-04-07--Live Action Condemns Hostility Toward Pro-Life Sidewalk Advocates During COVID-19

Washington , D.C. – Since late March , pro-life people have been subjected to a disturbing trend of threats , citations , and arrests by law enforcement officials seeking to halt pro-life activity outside of abortion facilities that remain in business during the COVID-19 crisis .
While the nation engages in communal efforts to slow the spread of the virus by delaying medical appointments and avoiding all non-essential activities , abortion businesses remain open to continue profiting from killing children .
In a growing list of locations , pro-life advocates engaged in peaceful outreach to rescue children and help women @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law enforcement — and some have even been arrested .
All this despite the fact that pro-life individuals are complying with safety standards to prevent the spread of COVID-19 .
The governments targeting those who are pro-life in this way claim that pro-life outreach is unsafe during the pandemic .
“ It is unconstitutional and absurd that sidewalk counselors and those peacefully praying would be threatened , cited , or even arrested for standing outside of an abortion business while those inside of the facility engage freely in the brutal destruction of innocent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sidewalks to offer help to mothers in need and try to save lives , while the abortion industry continues its horrific business of dismembering children in our communities .
“ The public must recognize that the abortion industry is obsessed with power and control over our bodies , our children , and every tier of government .
This industry will stop at nothing to maintain its license to kill .
At a time when Americans are barred from attending school , gathering with family and friends , and even entering their churches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help save lives , the abortion industry is exercising the license to kill , daily taking the lives of thousands of children .
“ Governments are working to stem the deadly COVID-19 pandemic ; and they can save countless additional lives from the deadly threat of abortion when they exercise their power to shut down the profit-driven abortion industry .
We urge leaders at every level of government to take action to immediately shut down abortion businesses nationwide .
“ Until then , pro-life individuals will continue to engage on the front lines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where children in the womb have one final chance of being rescued .
We stand with pro-life advocates who courageously stand for the lives targeted by the abortion industry even in the face of opposition.
” Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child .
Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media , human interest stories , and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry .
With the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Live Action ’ s videos and content reach millions of people every week .
Find out more at http : //www.liveaction.org

For Immediate Release
April 7th, 2020
Lauren Enriquez
Communications Manager, Live Action
laurenenriquez@liveaction.org
Live Action Condemns Hostility Toward Pro-Life Sidewalk
Advocates During COVID-19
Washington, D.C. – Since late March, pro-life people have been subjected to a disturbing trend of threats, citations, and arrests by law enforcement officials seeking to halt pro-life activity outside of abortion facilities that remain in business during the COVID-19 crisis.
While the nation engages in communal efforts to slow the spread of the virus by delaying medical appointments and avoiding all non-essential activities, abortion businesses remain open to continue profiting from killing children.
In a growing list of locations, pro-life advocates engaged in peaceful outreach to rescue children and help women outside of these businesses have contended with law enforcement — and some have even been arrested. All this despite the fact that pro-life individuals are complying with safety standards to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The governments targeting those who are pro-life in this way claim that pro-life outreach is unsafe during the pandemic.
Lila Rose, Founder and President of Live Action, commented:
“It is unconstitutional and absurd that sidewalk counselors and those peacefully praying would be threatened, cited, or even arrested for standing outside of an abortion business while those inside of the facility engage freely in the brutal destruction of innocent children. Concerned pro-life Americans go to the sidewalks to offer help to mothers in need and try to save lives, while the abortion industry continues its horrific business of dismembering children in our communities.
“The public must recognize that the abortion industry is obsessed with power and control over our bodies, our children, and every tier of government. This industry will stop at nothing to maintain its license to kill. At a time when Americans are barred from attending school, gathering with family and friends, and even entering their churches to engage in worship, all to help save lives, the abortion industry is exercising the license to kill, daily taking the lives of thousands of children.
“Governments are working to stem the deadly COVID-19 pandemic; and they can save countless additional lives from the deadly threat of abortion when they exercise their power to shut down the profit-driven abortion industry. We urge leaders at every level of government to take action to immediately shut down abortion businesses nationwide.
“Until then, pro-life individuals will continue to engage on the front lines of abortion — at abortion businesses — where children in the womb have one final chance of being rescued. We stand with pro-life advocates who courageously stand for the lives targeted by the abortion industry even in the face of opposition.”
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child. Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media, human interest stories, and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry. With the largest online following in the pro-life movement, Live Action’s videos and content reach millions of people every week. Find out more at http://www.liveaction.org
###


liveaction--2020-03-27--Live Action Finds Louisiana Abortion Facility Defying Statewide Ban on Abortion

For Immediate Release March 27th , 2020 Alison Howard Centofante Director of External Affairs , Live Action [ email protected ] 609-517-7235 Washington , D.C. – Today , Live Action , a national leading pro-life non-profit organization , released footage exposing that Hope Medical Group , an abortion facility in Shreveport , Louisiana and the plaintiff in the current Supreme Court case June Medical Services v. Russo , is committing abortions in defiance of a statewide ban .
Hope Medical Group ’ s ongoing operations are a violation of a Louisiana Department of Health order that non-essential and elective surgical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The order was made to preserve Personal Protective Equipment ( PPE ) that is desperately needed by healthcare workers on the frontlines of the battle against COVID-19 .
Additional goals of the order are to better utilize hospital staff , equipment , and bed capacity to save lives as the number of cases of COVID-19 continues to rise .
In two recorded phone calls on March 26 , 2020 , Hope Medical Group employees told Live Action investigators that they are open and operating saying : “ Currently we are the only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s open and operating , and we ’ ll stay open and operating as long as possible.
” Hope Medical Group made it clear over the phone that they are scheduling abortions : 0:20 CALLER : Hi , um , are you guys still scheduling abortions ?
0:25 HOPE MEDICAL : We are !
Unfortunately , our first session we don ’ t have an available appointment just because we are so busy until April 6th .
Hope Medical Group also confirmed that , in addition to seeing women from Louisiana , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which has issued a statewide halt to abortion : 1:04 HOPE MEDICAL : That ’ s correct ‘ cause um…we are booked solid because we are serving all of Louisiana as well as Texas at this , at this point due to shut downs from government offices .
And Hope Medical Group has no plans to stop carrying out abortions at this time : 4:08 HOPE MEDICAL : Yes .
Currently , um , we are the only facility that I know anywhere nearby is open and operating .
[ 4:15 CALLER : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will stay open and operating [ 4:19 CALLER : Okay . ]
as long as possible .
In Louisiana , the abortion industry proves once again that it will seek profit no matter what .
While the rest of the world is focused on rescuing the vulnerable from COVID-19 , Hope Medical Group is scheduling abortions that will kill children , harm women , and use up precious medical resources like masks , gloves , and gowns .
“ As Louisiana Senator Katrina Jackson noted on Thursday , Louisiana ’ s legitimate medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these valuable resources to the hospitals fighting COVID-19 in Louisiana .
But Hope Medical Group is focused on nothing but profiting from abortion .
We call on Governor John Bel Edwards and Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry to immediately shut down Hope Medical Group and penalize it for defying the state and endangering the community .
Listen to Live Action ’ s investigative calls here and follow Live Action on Twitter for updates .
The full transcript can be read below .
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of every child .
Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media , human interest stories , and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry .
With the largest online following in the pro-life movement , Live Action ’ s videos and content reach millions of people every week .
Find out more at http : //www.liveaction.org 1:32 HOPE MEDICAL : Thanks for holding , how can I help ?
1:34 CALLER : Hey , yeah , I ’ m trying to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ getting an abortion taken care of .
1:41 HOPE MEDICAL : Uh-kay .
Here in Louisiana , you have to have a consultation visit at least 24 hours before we can do [ a procedure .
1:48 CALLER : Okay . ]
Our consultation is 50 dollars .
Can be cash , card , or money order .
Um…uhhh , scheduling is modified right now to accommodate social distancing .
2:03 HOPE MEDICAL : We have consultation visits on Monday , Wednesday , and Friday .
The soonest you can get in would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or Friday following that day .
And theeen , the procedures are Tuesday , Thursday , and Saturday .
2:19 HOPE MEDICAL : The first step would be to schedule your consultation visit with me .
Aaaand , you would schedule the second visit when you come for the first visit .
2:29 CALLER : Okay , hold on , so , I- okay , so I have to schedule a consultation visit – and when can I come in ?
2:38 HOPE MEDICAL : Monday the 6th is the earliest I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m just trying to figure out child care .
2:41 CALLER : Sorry , what ’ d you say ?
2:46 CALLER : Monday , April 6th .
Okay .
So if I can get child care on that day and come in on Monday , April 6th .
And then , when can I – when can I get my procedure done though ?
Cause I ’ m trying to kind of figure this out as soon as I can .
3:05 HOPE MEDICAL : Unfortunately , it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be , um… We just don ’ t know for sure .
[ 3:13 CALLER : Okay . ]
I do know it ’ ll be a Tuesday , Thursday , or Saturday , but I can ’ t give you , like , a guarantee .
3:18 CALLER : A guaranteed day , yet ?
Okay .
Alright , um [ *sigh* ] .
Okay let me see if I can go ahead and find child care so I can do that consultation visit .
Um , how long do I have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right back to see if I can get child care ?
3:36 HOPE MEDICAL : Yeah , no problem .
We ’ re , we ’ ve got a good bit of appointments for that day available .
3:41 CALLER : Okay , great .
So , right now .
3:45 CALLER : No , that ’ s fine .
You guys are like the second place I called so I ’ m really glad you picked up .
Okay , um , but you guys , you guys are doing it though @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m sorry , you guys are , [ 4:00 HOPE MEDICAL : You ’ re good . ]
you guys are doing it , though , you guys are the second place that I called so I ’ m just trying to find a place that I can get this taken care of .
4:08 HOPE MEDICAL : Yes .
Currently , um , we are the only facility that I know anywhere nearby is open and operating .
[ 4:15 CALLER : Oh , okay . ]
And we will stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Okay . ]
as long as possible .
[ 4:20 CALLER : Okay . ]
Um , if we schedule with you and anything changes outside of our control we ’ ll definitely let you know .
4:26 CALLER : Okay .
Alright , wonderful .
What I ’ m gon na do is , I ’ m gon na see if I can figure out child care with my mom right now and then I ’ ll call you right back .
4:35 CALLER : Alright , thank you so much I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Hope Medical Group Service , this is Hailey , how can I help you ?
0:20 CALLER : Hi , um , are you guys still scheduling abortions ?
0:25 HOPE MEDICAL : We are !
Unfortunately , our first session we don ’ t have an available appointment just because we are so busy until April 6th .
0:33 CALLER : Oh , wow , ok , um…so , like , I think i ’ m like somewhere around 8 weeks pregnant , like…um…do you do ones , like , then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think I ’ m around like 8 weeks pregnant .
Do you do abortions [ 0:49 HOPE MEDICAL : M-hm . ]
then ?
Um… 0:52 HOPE MEDICAL : We do abortions anywhere from 3 weeks to 16 weeks and 6 days is our cut-off .
0:58 CALLER : Okay , ok , but you , you couldn ’ t , like , get me in , like , sooner than the 6th ?
1:04 HOPE MEDICAL : That ’ s correct ‘ cause um…we are booked solid because we are serving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at this , at this point due to shut downs from government offices .
1:18 CALLER : Okay , and that was actually , like , my question , is , I-I can ’ t make sense of all the , like , shut-down stuff in Lousiana , like , am I allowed , like , could I – do you do like appointments before an abortion , or , do you just come in and do everything all at once , or like , what do you – what do you do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uh , the state of Louisiana requires two appointments .
So , the first one is an ultrasound to determine exactly how far along you are .
You ’ ll meet with a counselor who will go over all the necessary paperwork as well as meet with the physician and go over the procedure as well .
Uh , that is a 24-hour mark .
24 hours after you meet with the physician , you can schedule for your , uh , procedure itself .
2:01 HOPE MEDICAL : So , sometimes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , like a Monday , Tuesday , but we can ’ t guarantee that .
2:07 CALLER : Oh , okay .
And – okay , so I ’ d have to even wait for April 6th for that one to , like , find out , what I need [ 2:15 HOPE MEDICAL : Correct ] to do .
Okay .
Okay , well , um…ok I guess let me figure out some things and I ’ ll-I ’ ll have to , I ’ ll just call you back since it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but thank you .
2:26 HOPE MEDICAL : You ’ re very welcome .
And if you have any other questions don ’ t hesitate to call us .
You can also reference our website , hopemedical.com , for more information .
Because you are calling to inquire about an abortion I am legally obligated to give you the number for the DHH .
I ’ m sorry , the website for them is [ inaudible ] .
2:45 CALLER : Okay , thank you , I appreciate it .

For Immediate Release
March 27th, 2020
Alison Howard Centofante
Director of External Affairs, Live Action
alisoncentofante@liveaction.org
609-517-7235
Live Action Finds Louisiana Abortion Facility Defying Statewide Ban on Abortion
Washington, D.C. – Today, Live Action, a national leading pro-life non-profit organization, released footage exposing that Hope Medical Group, an abortion facility in Shreveport, Louisiana and the plaintiff in the current Supreme Court case June Medical Services v. Russo, is committing abortions in defiance of a statewide ban.
Hope Medical Group’s ongoing operations are a violation of a Louisiana Department of Health order that non-essential and elective surgical procedures must cease during the COVID-19 crisis. The order was made to preserve Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that is desperately needed by healthcare workers on the frontlines of the battle against COVID-19. Additional goals of the order are to better utilize hospital staff, equipment, and bed capacity to save lives as the number of cases of COVID-19 continues to rise.
In two recorded phone calls on March 26, 2020, Hope Medical Group employees told Live Action investigators that they are open and operating saying: “Currently we are the only facility that I know anywhere nearby that’s open and operating, and we’ll stay open and operating as long as possible.”
Hope Medical Group made it clear over the phone that they are scheduling abortions:
0:20 CALLER: Hi, um, are you guys still scheduling abortions?
0:25 HOPE MEDICAL: We are! Unfortunately, our first session we don’t have an available appointment just because we are so busy until April 6th.
Hope Medical Group also confirmed that, in addition to seeing women from Louisiana, they are seeing women from Texas, which has issued a statewide halt to abortion:
1:04 HOPE MEDICAL: That’s correct ‘cause um…we are booked solid because we are serving all of Louisiana as well as Texas at this, at this point due to shut downs from government offices.
And Hope Medical Group has no plans to stop carrying out abortions at this time:
4:08 HOPE MEDICAL: Yes. Currently, um, we are the only facility that I know anywhere nearby is open and operating. [4:15 CALLER: Oh, okay.] And we will stay open and operating [4:19 CALLER: Okay.] as long as possible.
Live Action Founder and President, Lila Rose, stated:
In Louisiana, the abortion industry proves once again that it will seek profit no matter what. While the rest of the world is focused on rescuing the vulnerable from COVID-19, Hope Medical Group is scheduling abortions that will kill children, harm women, and use up precious medical resources like masks, gloves, and gowns.
“As Louisiana Senator Katrina Jackson noted on Thursday, Louisiana’s legitimate medical providers, like dentists, are donating these valuable resources to the hospitals fighting COVID-19 in Louisiana. But Hope Medical Group is focused on nothing but profiting from abortion. We call on Governor John Bel Edwards and Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry to immediately shut down Hope Medical Group and penalize it for defying the state and endangering the community.
Listen to Live Action’s investigative calls here and follow Live Action on Twitter for updates. The full transcript can be read below.
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child. Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media, human interest stories, and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry. With the largest online following in the pro-life movement, Live Action’s videos and content reach millions of people every week. Find out more at http://www.liveaction.org
###
FULL TRANSCRIPT
June Medical Services LLC (Hope Medical Group for Women)
March 26, 2020 12:28 pm CT
0:16 HOPE MEDICAL: Hope Medical, please hold.
0:18 CALLER: Okay.
1:32 HOPE MEDICAL: Thanks for holding, how can I help?
1:34 CALLER: Hey, yeah, I’m trying to figure out how I can go about getting an abortion taken care of.
1:41 HOPE MEDICAL: Uh-kay. Here in Louisiana, you have to have a consultation visit at least 24 hours before we can do[ a procedure. 1:48 CALLER: Okay.] Our consultation is 50 dollars. Can be cash, card, or money order. Um…uhhh, scheduling is modified right now to accommodate social distancing.
2:02 CALLER: Ohh, okay.
2:03 HOPE MEDICAL: We have consultation visits on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The soonest you can get in would be Monday the 6th, or Wednesday, or Friday following that day. And theeen, the procedures are Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
2:19 CALLER: Okay.
2:19 HOPE MEDICAL: The first step would be to schedule your consultation visit with me. Aaaand, you would schedule the second visit when you come for the first visit.
2:29 CALLER: Okay, hold on, so, I- okay, so I have to schedule a consultation visit – and when can I come in?
2:38 HOPE MEDICAL: Monday the 6th is the earliest I have.
2:38 CALLER: Sorry, I’m just trying to figure out child care.
2:41 HOPE MEDICAL: Yeah, no problem.
2:41 CALLER: Sorry, what’d you say?
2:43 HOPE MEDICAL: Monday, April 6th.
2:46 CALLER: Monday, April 6th. Okay. So if I can get child care on that day and come in on Monday, April 6th. And then, when can I – when can I get my procedure done though? Cause I’m trying to kind of figure this out as soon as I can.
3:05 HOPE MEDICAL: Unfortunately, it’s not guaranteed when the second visit will be, um… We just don’t know for sure. [3:13 CALLER: Okay.] I do know it’ll be a Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday, but I can’t give you, like, a guarantee.
3:18 CALLER: A guaranteed day, yet? Okay. Alright, um [*sigh*]. Okay let me see if I can go ahead and find child care so I can do that consultation visit. Um, how long do I have, like, can I call you right back to see if I can get child care?
3:36 HOPE MEDICAL: Yeah, no problem. We’re, we’ve got a good bit of appointments for that day available.
3:41 CALLER: Okay, great. So, right now.
3:44 HOPE MEDICAL: I’m sorry?
3:45 CALLER: No, that’s fine. You guys are like the second place I called so I’m really glad you picked up. Okay, um, but you guys, you guys are doing it though, yeah?
3:56 HOPE MEDICAL: Ma’am, I’m sorry, I couldn’t hear you.
3:58 CALLER: I’m sorry, you guys are, [4:00 HOPE MEDICAL: You’re good.] you guys are doing it, though, you guys are the second place that I called so I’m just trying to find a place that I can get this taken care of.
4:08 HOPE MEDICAL: Yes. Currently, um, we are the only facility that I know anywhere nearby is open and operating. [4:15 CALLER: Oh, okay.] And we will stay open and operating [4:19 CALLER: Okay.] as long as possible. [4:20 CALLER: Okay.] Um, if we schedule with you and anything changes outside of our control we’ll definitely let you know.
4:26 CALLER: Okay. Alright, wonderful. What I’m gonna do is, I’m gonna see if I can figure out child care with my mom right now and then I’ll call you right back.
4:34 HOPE MEDICAL: Sounds great.
4:35 CALLER: Alright, thank you so much I really appreciate it.
4:38 HOPE MEDICAL: Not a problem.
4:40 CALLER: Alright, buh-bye.
4:34 End Call/Transcript
June Medical Services LLC (Hope Medical Group for Women)
March 26, 2020 2:37 pm CT
0:18 HOPE MEDICAL: Hope Medical Group Service, this is Hailey, how can I help you?
0:20 CALLER: Hi, um, are you guys still scheduling abortions?
0:25 HOPE MEDICAL: We are! Unfortunately, our first session we don’t have an available appointment just because we are so busy until April 6th.
0:33 CALLER: Oh, wow, ok, um…so, like, I think i’m like somewhere around 8 weeks pregnant, like…um…do you do ones, like, then?
0:45 HOPE MEDICAL: I’m sorry?
0:45 CALLER: I said, I think I’m around like 8 weeks pregnant. Do you do abortions [0:49 HOPE MEDICAL: M-hm.] then? Um…
0:52 HOPE MEDICAL: We do abortions anywhere from 3 weeks to 16 weeks and 6 days is our cut-off.
0:58 CALLER: Okay, ok, but you, you couldn’t, like, get me in, like, sooner than the 6th?
1:04 HOPE MEDICAL: That’s correct ‘cause um…we are booked solid because we are serving all of Louisiana as well as Texas at this, at this point due to shut downs from government offices.
1:18 CALLER: Okay, and that was actually, like, my question, is, I-I can’t make sense of all the, like, shut-down stuff in Lousiana, like, am I allowed, like, could I – do you do like appointments before an abortion, or, do you just come in and do everything all at once, or like, what do you – what do you do?
1:34 HOPE MEDICAL: Um, uh, the state of Louisiana requires two appointments. So, the first one is an ultrasound to determine exactly how far along you are. You’ll meet with a counselor who will go over all the necessary paperwork as well as meet with the physician and go over the procedure as well. Uh, that is a 24-hour mark. 24 hours after you meet with the physician, you can schedule for your, uh, procedure itself.
2:00 CALLER: Okay.
2:01 HOPE MEDICAL: So, sometimes, we can do back-to-back appointments, uh, like a Monday, Tuesday, but we can’t guarantee that.
2:07 CALLER: Oh, okay. And – okay, so I’d have to even wait for April 6th for that one to, like, find out, what I need [2:15 HOPE MEDICAL: Correct] to do. Okay. Okay, well, um…ok I guess let me figure out some things and I’ll-I’ll have to, I’ll just call you back since it’s a wait time anyway, but thank you.
2:26 HOPE MEDICAL: You’re very welcome. And if you have any other questions don’t hesitate to call us. You can also reference our website, hopemedical.com, for more information. Because you are calling to inquire about an abortion I am legally obligated to give you the number for the DHH. I’m sorry, the website for them is [inaudible].
2:45 CALLER: Okay, thank you, I appreciate it.
2:47 HOPE MEDICAL: You’re welcome. Bye-bye
2:48: CALLER: Okay, bye.
2:50: End Call/Transcript


liveaction--2020-03-23--Pro-Life Leader Lila Rose Urges Shut Down of Abortion Facilities

For Immediate Release March 23rd , 2020 Alison Howard Centofante Director of External Affairs , Live Action [ email protected ] 609-517-7235 Washington , D.C. – State and local officials nationwide have taken action to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and assist healthcare providers to respond to the crisis by enhancing medical supplies and halting businesses and healthcare procedures not deemed “ essential ” to the community .
Meanwhile , abortion businesses all over the country have been exempted from public safety proclamations and remain operational in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis .
Several states have begun to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that abortions must be stopped or slowed at this time .
“ While schools , businesses , and churches shut down , abortion facilities across America remain open , profiting off of fear and panic and killing thousands of children a day .
In no context is abortion ‘ essential ’ to public well-being .
In fact , abortion always targets and violently destroys an innocent human being .
As nations all over the world unite to fight COVID-19 under the shared understanding that every human life is precious , it is unconscionable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the one industry that exists to kill and destroy human life to continue to operate .
“ The COVID-19 national emergency presents unprecedented challenges to our government and healthcare communities .
As blood bank shortages become the norm and life-preserving masks and equipment are in short supply , the abortion industry continues to kill children and endanger women .
The abortion industry is exacerbating the current crisis and diverting crucial resources from the front lines of the battle against COVID-19 .
“ We are calling on all local , state , and federal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and chemical — to protect innocent lives.
” Follow Live Action and Lila Rose on Twitter for more .
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child .
Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media , human interest stories , and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry .
With the largest online following in the pro-life movement , Live Action ’ s videos and content reach millions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more at http : //www.liveaction.org

For Immediate Release
March 23rd, 2020
Alison Howard Centofante
Director of External Affairs, Live Action
alisoncentofante@liveaction.org
609-517-7235
Pro-Life Leader Lila Rose Urges Shut Down of Abortion Facilities
Washington, D.C. – State and local officials nationwide have taken action to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and assist healthcare providers to respond to the crisis by enhancing medical supplies and halting businesses and healthcare procedures not deemed “essential” to the community.
Meanwhile, abortion businesses all over the country have been exempted from public safety proclamations and remain operational in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis. Several states have begun to take action to rectify this oversight, clarifying that abortions must be stopped or slowed at this time.
Live Action Founder and President, Lila Rose, reacted:
“While schools, businesses, and churches shut down, abortion facilities across America remain open, profiting off of fear and panic and killing thousands of children a day. In no context is abortion ‘essential’ to public well-being. In fact, abortion always targets and violently destroys an innocent human being. As nations all over the world unite to fight COVID-19 under the shared understanding that every human life is precious, it is unconscionable that our leaders would continue to allow the one industry that exists to kill and destroy human life to continue to operate.
“The COVID-19 national emergency presents unprecedented challenges to our government and healthcare communities. As blood bank shortages become the norm and life-preserving masks and equipment are in short supply, the abortion industry continues to kill children and endanger women. The abortion industry is exacerbating the current crisis and diverting crucial resources from the front lines of the battle against COVID-19.
“We are calling on all local, state, and federal leaders to halt all abortions — surgical and chemical — to protect innocent lives.”
Follow Live Action and Lila Rose on Twitter for more.
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child. Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media, human interest stories, and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry. With the largest online following in the pro-life movement, Live Action’s videos and content reach millions of people every week. Find out more at http://www.liveaction.org
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liveaction--2020-03-03--Live Action Statement on Supreme Court Case June Medical Services v. Russo

For Immediate Release March 3rd , 2020 Alison Howard Centofante Director of External Affairs , Live Action [ email protected ] 609-517-7235 Washington , D.C. – On Wednesday , The Supreme Court will hear arguments in June Medical Services v. Russo .
The Louisiana legislation at the heart of this Supreme Court case , Act 620 , requires abortionists to obtain local hospital admitting privileges so that when – not if – women experience medical emergencies while undergoing abortions , they are ensured the same protection as the patients of any legitimate physician who are transferred to a hospital .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the need for Act 620 .
Louisiana abortion facilities and abortionists have a predictable record of failure in medicine , including botched abortions , allowing eye doctors and radiologists to perform abortions , failure to report harm to women who have had abortions , the intentional destruction of medical records , and failure to satisfy basic sanitary requirements .
It is also important to note that the abortion industry plaintiffs in June Medical Services have not identified a single person harmed by Act 620 , let alone a close relationship between themselves and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only “ harm ” done by Act 620 is to the financial interests of the abortion industry .
If the Court rules in favor of the State of Louisiana on the issue of standing , that will mean abortion industry plaintiffs must meet the burden of legal standing before using the courts to block similar pro-life legislation .
“ June Medical Services v. Russo underscores the abortion industry ’ s rampant disregard for the lives of women and children .
In violently killing preborn children and harming the bodies of women , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cycle of abuse that state governments fail to acknowledge , penalize , or curb .
Unsurprisingly , abortionists routinely thwart standards designed to mitigate the harm done to women during abortions .
“ Hospital admitting privileges are a standard of medical care in Louisiana , and even surgeons performing wisdom tooth removal are required to have them .
The abortion industry ’ s recalcitrance toward being held to the same standard as legitimate healthcare providers emphasizes the truth : abortion is not healthcare .
The brutal destruction of an innocent human life will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pro-life movement are never surprised when we learn that those who violently destroy the bodies of children for profit are willing to harm women as collateral damage in that pursuit .
We are fighting for the dignity of every human being , including children killed in abortion and the women who undergo these abortions.
” Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child .
Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry .
With the largest online following in the pro-life movement , Live Action ’ s videos and content reach millions of people every week .
Find out more at http : //www.liveaction.org

For Immediate Release
March 3rd, 2020
Alison Howard Centofante
Director of External Affairs, Live Action
alisoncentofante@liveaction.org
609-517-7235
Live Action Statement on Supreme Court Case June Medical Services v. Russo
Washington, D.C. – On Wednesday, The Supreme Court will hear arguments in June Medical Services v. Russo.
The Louisiana legislation at the heart of this Supreme Court case, Act 620, requires abortionists to obtain local hospital admitting privileges so that when – not if – women experience medical emergencies while undergoing abortions, they are ensured the same protection as the patients of any legitimate physician who are transferred to a hospital. The track record of Louisiana abortionists underscores the need for Act 620. Louisiana abortion facilities and abortionists have a predictable record of failure in medicine, including botched abortions, allowing eye doctors and radiologists to perform abortions, failure to report harm to women who have had abortions, the intentional destruction of medical records, and failure to satisfy basic sanitary requirements.
It is also important to note that the abortion industry plaintiffs in June Medical Services have not identified a single person harmed by Act 620, let alone a close relationship between themselves and their hypothetical clients seeking abortions. The only “harm” done by Act 620 is to the financial interests of the abortion industry. If the Court rules in favor of the State of Louisiana on the issue of standing, that will mean abortion industry plaintiffs must meet the burden of legal standing before using the courts to block similar pro-life legislation.
Statement from Live Action President and Founder, Lila Rose:
“June Medical Services v. Russo underscores the abortion industry’s rampant disregard for the lives of women and children. In violently killing preborn children and harming the bodies of women, the abortion industry and its allies perpetuate a cycle of abuse that state governments fail to acknowledge, penalize, or curb. Unsurprisingly, abortionists routinely thwart standards designed to mitigate the harm done to women during abortions.
“Hospital admitting privileges are a standard of medical care in Louisiana, and even surgeons performing wisdom tooth removal are required to have them. The abortion industry’s recalcitrance toward being held to the same standard as legitimate healthcare providers emphasizes the truth: abortion is not healthcare. The brutal destruction of an innocent human life will never be healthcare.
“We in the pro-life movement are never surprised when we learn that those who violently destroy the bodies of children for profit are willing to harm women as collateral damage in that pursuit. We are fighting for the dignity of every human being, including children killed in abortion and the women who undergo these abortions.”
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child. Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media, human interest stories, and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry. With the largest online following in the pro-life movement, Live Action’s videos and content reach millions of people every week. Find out more at http://www.liveaction.org
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liveaction--2020-02-18--Live Action Statement During Black History Month

For Immediate Release Feb. 18th , 2020 Alison Howard Centofante Director of External Affairs , Live Action [ email protected ] 609-517-7235 Washington , DC .
– Today , Live Action Founder and President , Lila Rose , released a statement acknowleding Black History Month and the reality of black abortions .
In honor of Black History Month , Live Action re-released a 2007 video revealing Planned Parenthood facilities accepting donations specifically for the abortion of black babies .
In the videos , a Live Action investigator calls Planned Parenthood posing as a racist donor wanting to give a racially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ babies .
The caller clearly expresses a racist agenda of wanting to “ lower the number of blacks in America , ” but that did not discourage Planned Parenthood staff from accepting the money .
“ Our investigations have shown Planned Parenthood accepting race-based donations and this Black History Month , I remind the country that the abortion industry is uniquely racist and eugenic in its founding , ideology , and current business model .
Abortion is the most institutionalized form of racism in America .
An estimated 649 abortions are committed on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while black women make up 12 percent of the U.S. population , they account for 38 percent of reported abortions .
Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger deemed those she thought less of as “ human weeds ” and her eugenist legacy has led to abortion being the number one killer of African Americans , with black abortions outnumbering the top nine leading causes of death for black Americans combined .
Even as the United States abortion rate is at its lowest since Roe v. Wade , black women are at least 3.8 times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have an abortion as white women .
Abortion giant Planned Parenthood has specifically targeted minority communities with its physical presence and heavy marketing in these communities , subsidized by our federal tax dollars .
It is time we fully defund Planned Parenthood and all abortion providers of federal and state taxpayer dollars and protect all preborn lives.
” Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child .
Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry .
With the largest online following in the pro-life movement , Live Action ’ s videos and content reach millions of people every week .
Find out more at http : //www.liveaction.org

For Immediate Release
Feb. 18th, 2020
Alison Howard Centofante
Director of External Affairs, Live Action
alisoncentofante@liveaction.org
609-517-7235
Live Action Statement During Black History Month
Washington, DC. – Today, Live Action Founder and President, Lila Rose, released a statement acknowleding Black History Month and the reality of black abortions. In honor of Black History Month, Live Action re-released a 2007 video revealing Planned Parenthood facilities accepting donations specifically for the abortion of black babies. In the videos, a Live Action investigator calls Planned Parenthood posing as a racist donor wanting to give a racially motivated donation intended to abort only black babies. The caller clearly expresses a racist agenda of wanting to “lower the number of blacks in America,” but that did not discourage Planned Parenthood staff from accepting the money.
Statement from Live Action President and Founder, Lila Rose:
“Our investigations have shown Planned Parenthood accepting race-based donations and this Black History Month, I remind the country that the abortion industry is uniquely racist and eugenic in its founding, ideology, and current business model. Abortion is the most institutionalized form of racism in America. An estimated 649 abortions are committed on black women every single day. And while black women make up 12 percent of the U.S. population, they account for 38 percent of reported abortions.
Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger deemed those she thought less of as “human weeds” and her eugenist legacy has led to abortion being the number one killer of African Americans, with black abortions outnumbering the top nine leading causes of death for black Americans combined. Even as the United States abortion rate is at its lowest since Roe v. Wade, black women are at least 3.8 times, if not five times more likely to have an abortion as white women.
Abortion giant Planned Parenthood has specifically targeted minority communities with its physical presence and heavy marketing in these communities, subsidized by our federal tax dollars. It is time we fully defund Planned Parenthood and all abortion providers of federal and state taxpayer dollars and protect all preborn lives.”
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child. Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media, human interest stories, and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry. With the largest online following in the pro-life movement, Live Action’s videos and content reach millions of people every week. Find out more at http://www.liveaction.org
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liveaction--2020-02-04--Lila Rose Releases Statement Ahead of 2020 State of the Union

For Immediate Release Feb. 4th , 2020 Alison Howard Centofante Director of External Affairs , Live Action [ email protected ] 609-517-7235 Lila Rose Releases Statement Ahead of 2020 State of the Union Washington , DC .
– Tonight , President Donald J. Trump will address the nation during the annual State of the Union Address .
Lila Rose , President and Founder of Live Action released this statement : “ How we treat our most vulnerable determines the moral strength of our nation .
It is likely that the President will again highlight the dignity of the preborn and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abortion from our nation ’ s history .
“ One of his special guests this evening , Ellie Schneider , was once completely vulnerable , but she survived being born at 21 weeks and is now 2 years old .
It is tragic that babies like Ellie have no legal protection against losing their lives to abortion in certain places across our nation .
“ President Trump could make history tonight and save countless lives by making good on his promise to fully defund abortion giant Planned Parenthood .
No group that commits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Planned Parenthood kills 345 , 672 Americans per year through abortion and received $ 616.9 million tax dollars in 2018 .
It ’ s time for our country to treat all human life , born and preborn , as equal in worth and dignity.
” Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child .
Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media , human interest stories , and investigative reporting that exposes the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
With the largest online following in the pro-life movement , Live Action ’ s videos and content reach millions of people every week .
Find out more at http : //www.liveaction.org

For Immediate Release
Feb. 4th, 2020
Alison Howard Centofante
Director of External Affairs, Live Action
alisoncentofante@liveaction.org
609-517-7235
Lila Rose Releases Statement Ahead of 2020 State of the Union
Washington, DC. – Tonight, President Donald J. Trump will address the nation during the annual State of the Union Address.
Lila Rose, President and Founder of Live Action released this statement:
“How we treat our most vulnerable determines the moral strength of our nation. It is likely that the President will again highlight the dignity of the preborn and the need to eradicate the scourge of abortion from our nation’s history.
“One of his special guests this evening, Ellie Schneider, was once completely vulnerable, but she survived being born at 21 weeks and is now 2 years old. It is tragic that babies like Ellie have no legal protection against losing their lives to abortion in certain places across our nation.
“President Trump could make history tonight and save countless lives by making good on his promise to fully defund abortion giant Planned Parenthood. No group that commits abortions should receive any taxpayer money, and Planned Parenthood kills 345, 672 Americans per year through abortion and received $616.9 million tax dollars in 2018. It’s time for our country to treat all human life, born and preborn, as equal in worth and dignity.”
Statement on Twitter
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child. Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media, human interest stories, and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry. With the largest online following in the pro-life movement, Live Action’s videos and content reach millions of people every week. Find out more at http://www.liveaction.org
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liveaction--2020-01-31--TikTok Apologizes & Reinstates Live Action Account

For Immediate Release Jan. 31st , 2020 Alison Howard Centofante Director of External Affairs , Live Action [ email protected ] 609-517-7235 TikTok removed and banned Live Action , the largest pro-life voice on the platform Washington , DC – Today , video sharing social media site TikTok apologized for abruptly removing and banning Live Action from the platform .
In an email to Live Action , TikTok called the ban a “ mistake ” , “ the result of human error , ” and admitted , “ your account is not in violation of any of our community guidelines.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ after national backlash and demands for answers from pro-life organizational leaders , Members of Congress , and reporters on why the largest pro-life voice on TikTok was inexplicably removed and banned from the platform .
“ TikTok has rightfully reinstated Live Action ’ s account .
We received an email from TikTok at 11:29 AM PT/2:29 pm ET apologizing for what TikTok is calling ‘ human error ’ .
They admitted that our account “ is not in violation of any of our Community Guidelines.
” Tiktok must improve their training and oversight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ errors ’ like this aren ’ t made in the future for us or any other pro-life organization.
” “ We contacted TikTok yesterday asking for an answer and resolution and only after we escalated the problem , did they finally reinstate the account .
Not every pro-life American has the reach that Live Action has to sound the alarm on censorship and viewpoint discrimination .
“ What we saw today is the power of social media , the pro-life movement , and news outlets in doing their job to report pro-life viewpoint @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on TikTok.
” Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child .
Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media , human interest stories , and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry .
With the largest online following in the pro-life movement , Live Action ’ s videos and content reach millions of people every week .
Find out more at http : //www.liveaction.org

For Immediate Release
Jan. 31st, 2020
Alison Howard Centofante
Director of External Affairs, Live Action
alisoncentofante@liveaction.org
609-517-7235
TikTok Apologizes & Reinstates Live Action’s Account
TikTok removed and banned Live Action, the largest pro-life voice on the platform
Washington, DC – Today, video sharing social media site TikTok apologized for abruptly removing and banning Live Action from the platform. In an email to Live Action, TikTok called the ban a “mistake”, “the result of human error,” and admitted, “your account is not in violation of any of our community guidelines.” The response from TikTok was received after national backlash and demands for answers from pro-life organizational leaders, Members of Congress, and reporters on why the largest pro-life voice on TikTok was inexplicably removed and banned from the platform.
Statement from Live Action Founder and President, Lila Rose
“TikTok has rightfully reinstated Live Action’s account. We received an email from TikTok at 11:29 AM PT/2:29 pm ET apologizing for what TikTok is calling ‘human error’. They admitted that our account “is not in violation of any of our Community Guidelines.” Tiktok must improve their training and oversight to ensure that such dramatic ‘human errors’ like this aren’t made in the future for us or any other pro-life organization.”
“We contacted TikTok yesterday asking for an answer and resolution and only after we escalated the problem, did they finally reinstate the account. Not every pro-life American has the reach that Live Action has to sound the alarm on censorship and viewpoint discrimination.
“What we saw today is the power of social media, the pro-life movement, and news outlets in doing their job to report pro-life viewpoint discrimination. Now, go follow us on TikTok.”
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child. Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media, human interest stories, and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry. With the largest online following in the pro-life movement, Live Action’s videos and content reach millions of people every week. Find out more at http://www.liveaction.org
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liveaction--2020-01-31--TikTok Targets Largest Pro-Life Organization Online, Removes and Bans Account Entirely

For Immediate Release Jan. 31st , 2020 Alison Howard Centofante Director of External Affairs , Live Action [ email protected ] 609-517-7235 Washington , DC – TikTok , the popular social media platform used to create and share short music videos , has removed and banned the account of Live Action , the leading digital pro-life organization with the largest following in the pro-life movement online and the largest pro-life voice on TikTok .
TikTok has over 800 million active users and states that their mission is ‘ to capture and present the world ’ s creativity , knowledge , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the mobile phone.
’ Live Action reached out to TikTok for clarity on why the account was removed and what community guidelines it violated and has not received a response .
Backgrounder and timeline below for more information .
“ Live Action joined TikTok in 2019 as part of our ongoing efforts to reach Gen Z and Millennials with the truth about abortion and to continue to solidify our role as digital leaders in the nonprofit space .
Tiktok has a larger active user base than Twitter , Pinterest , Reddit , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as big as Instagram .
Our innovative , educational videos were hugely popular and grew our following to over 21k followers , quickly making Live Action the largest pro-life voice on the platform .
Live Action ’ s videos shared baby photos and videos and highlighted the illogic of the pro-abortion movement .
At the same time , TikTok allows pro-abortion accounts and videos to remain on the platform , videos like this that simulate brutal harm to preborn or born infants .
Live Action appealed TikTok ’ s decision to remove one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hour our account was completely removed on the platform .
No more account , no more videos .
This is blatant viewpoint discrimination and an egregious attempt to silence pro-life voices .
TikTok should reinstate our account in full and allow all voices on the platform.
” At 1:26PM EST on January 30th , 2020 Live Action posted an educational video to our TikTok highlighting lives saved by our content & raising awareness of the importance of speaking out on abortion .
This is the video removed by TikTok- https : //f.io/fkFAcRqp The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see a sample here At 2:30PM EST we were notified our video “ violated community guidelines ” and it was deleted .
Immediately after being notified of the violation , we appealed the removal .
And at 3PM EST Live Action was completely BANNED from the platform .
TikTok stated “ this account was banned due to multiple Community Guidelines violations.
” The ban comes after Live Action grew an engaged user base of 21,000 followers since joining the platform 4 months ago in August of 2019 .
Live Action is a national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about abortion and affirming the life of every child .
Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media , human interest stories , and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry .
With the largest online following in the pro-life movement , Live Action ’ s videos and content reach millions of people every week .
Find out more at http : //www.liveaction.org

For Immediate Release
Jan. 31st, 2020
Alison Howard Centofante
Director of External Affairs, Live Action
alisoncentofante@liveaction.org
609-517-7235
TikTok Targets Largest Pro-Life Organization Online,
Removes and Bans Account Entirely
Washington, DC – TikTok, the popular social media platform used to create and share short music videos, has removed and banned the account of Live Action, the leading digital pro-life organization with the largest following in the pro-life movement online and the largest pro-life voice on TikTok. TikTok has over 800 million active users and states that their mission is ‘to capture and present the world’s creativity, knowledge, and precious life moments, directly from the mobile phone.’ Live Action reached out to TikTok for clarity on why the account was removed and what community guidelines it violated and has not received a response.
Backgrounder and timeline below for more information.
Statement from Live Action Director of External Affairs, Alison Howard Centofante:
“Live Action joined TikTok in 2019 as part of our ongoing efforts to reach Gen Z and Millennials with the truth about abortion and to continue to solidify our role as digital leaders in the nonprofit space. Tiktok has a larger active user base than Twitter, Pinterest, Reddit, and Snapchat. Its user base is nearly as big as Instagram. Our innovative, educational videos were hugely popular and grew our following to over 21k followers, quickly making Live Action the largest pro-life voice on the platform. Live Action’s videos shared baby photos and videos and highlighted the illogic of the pro-abortion movement. At the same time, TikTok allows pro-abortion accounts and videos to remain on the platform, videos like this that simulate brutal harm to preborn or born infants. Live Action appealed TikTok’s decision to remove one of our videos and within a half hour our account was completely removed on the platform. No more account, no more videos. This is blatant viewpoint discrimination and an egregious attempt to silence pro-life voices. TikTok should reinstate our account in full and allow all voices on the platform.”
BACKGROUND and TIMELINE:
At 1:26PM EST on January 30th, 2020 Live Action posted an educational video to our TikTok highlighting lives saved by our content & raising awareness of the importance of speaking out on abortion. This is the video removed by TikTok- https://f.io/fkFAcRqp
The video follows a popular TikTok trend, see a sample here
At 2:30PM EST we were notified our video “violated community guidelines” and it was deleted.
Tiktok’s community guidelines are here.
Immediately after being notified of the violation, we appealed the removal.
And at 3PM EST Live Action was completely BANNED from the platform. TikTok stated “this account was banned due to multiple Community Guidelines violations.”
The ban comes after Live Action grew an engaged user base of 21,000 followers since joining the platform 4 months ago in August of 2019.
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child. Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media, human interest stories, and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry. With the largest online following in the pro-life movement, Live Action’s videos and content reach millions of people every week. Find out more at http://www.liveaction.org
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liveaction--2020-01-27--Live Action Applauds HHS Action to Protect Preborn Children in California

For Immediate Release Jan. 27th , 2020 Alison Howard Centofante Director of External Affairs , Live Action [ email protected ] 609-517-7235 Washington , DC –Today , the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ( HHS ) , Office for Civil Rights ( OCR ) , announced it will take action to protect human life and the conscience rights of all Americans .
OCR is issuing a Notice of Violation to the state of California , formally notifying California that it can not impose universal abortion coverage mandates on health insurance plans and issuers in violation of federal conscience @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from two complaints alleging that California engaged in unlawful discrimination when California ’ s Department of Managed Health Care ( DMHC ) ordered , in August 2014 , that all health plan issuers under its jurisdiction must offer coverage for elective abortion in every plan they offer .
OCR has completed the investigation of the complaints and determined that California violated the Weldon Amendment by mandating that California health care plan issuers cover elective abortion in each plan product , and continues to violate federal law by continuing to require objecting health care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cover elective abortion .
The Weldon Amendment is a longstanding federal law that prohibits discrimination against organizations that do not cover abortion in their health care plans .
If OCR does not receive sufficient assurance that California will come into compliance with federal law , California may ultimately face a limitation on continued receipt of certain HHS funds .
“ Sadly , California has been forcing all state-regulated insurance to fund the taking of innocent , preborn human life in their health care plans – regardless of conscientious objection – with impunity .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health and Human Services , the state of California will have to answer for that violation of federal law .
The Weldon Amendment has long prohibited discrimination against organizations that do not wish to fund abortion in their insurance plans , and today we have an administration willing to enforce it .
California has no business promoting abortion in this or any way and no one should be made to participate in this grave human rights abuse.
” Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media , human interest stories , and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry .
With the largest online following in the pro-life movement , Live Action ’ s videos and content reach millions of people every week .
Find out more at http : //www.liveaction.org

For Immediate Release
Jan. 27th, 2020
Alison Howard Centofante
Director of External Affairs, Live Action
alisoncentofante@liveaction.org
609-517-7235
Live Action Applauds HHS Action to Protect Preborn Children in California
Washington, DC –Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office for Civil Rights (OCR), announced it will take action to protect human life and the conscience rights of all Americans. OCR is issuing a Notice of Violation to the state of California, formally notifying California that it cannot impose universal abortion coverage mandates on health insurance plans and issuers in violation of federal conscience laws. OCR’s investigation arose from two complaints alleging that California engaged in unlawful discrimination when California’s Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC) ordered, in August 2014, that all health plan issuers under its jurisdiction must offer coverage for elective abortion in every plan they offer. OCR has completed the investigation of the complaints and determined that California violated the Weldon Amendment by mandating that California health care plan issuers cover elective abortion in each plan product, and continues to violate federal law by continuing to require objecting health care entities protected by the Weldon Amendment to cover elective abortion. The Weldon Amendment is a longstanding federal law that prohibits discrimination against organizations that do not cover abortion in their health care plans. If OCR does not receive sufficient assurance that California will come into compliance with federal law, California may ultimately face a limitation on continued receipt of certain HHS funds.
Statement from Live Action Director of External Affairs, Alison Howard Centofante:
“Sadly, California has been forcing all state-regulated insurance to fund the taking of innocent, preborn human life in their health care plans – regardless of conscientious objection – with impunity. Now, thanks to the Department of Health and Human Services, the state of California will have to answer for that violation of federal law. The Weldon Amendment has long prohibited discrimination against organizations that do not wish to fund abortion in their insurance plans, and today we have an administration willing to enforce it. California has no business promoting abortion in this or any way and no one should be made to participate in this grave human rights abuse.”
Live Action is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing the truth about abortion and affirming the life of every child. Live Action exists to change hearts and minds about abortion through compelling educational media, human interest stories, and investigative reporting that exposes the lies and corruption in the abortion industry. With the largest online following in the pro-life movement, Live Action’s videos and content reach millions of people every week. Find out more at http://www.liveaction.org
###


liveaction--2020-01-07--As Massachusetts tries to pass extreme pro-abortion bill, media paints parental notification as bad

In 2019 , several states passed extreme pro-abortion laws , while others attempted to do so .
Massachusetts was one of the latter .
Massachusetts ’ “ Roe Act ” is a Senate bill that has been in committee since last year ; it seeks to expand abortion access in the state .
It would allow abortion up until birth and would undo the parental notification law for minors obtaining an abortion .
Currently , in Massachusetts , abortion is legal up to fetal viability for any reason .
The “ Roe Act ” would ensure abortion would be legal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – physical , emotional , psychological , familial , and the person ’ s age – relevant to the well-being of the patient.
” That means abortion would be legal up until birth for completely elective reasons .
According to National Review , abortion is already protected by the state constitution , and the “ Roe Act ” would move to enshrine it as a right .
Abortion will also be protected as a right when the preborn child is said to be “ incompatible with sustained life outside the uterus.
” In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a child ’ s health condition .
In addition to these now seemingly standard pro-abortion laws in liberal states that leave zero restrictions on abortion , the “ Roe Act ” would allow abortionists to commit an abortion on minors without parental consent or notification .
This is a dangerous move that proves abortion advocates care more about the abortion industry than they do girls .
For example , NPR used the story of a 15-year-old girl pregnant from rape to attempt to show that parental notification of abortion somehow causes harm to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in fact , it showed the opposite .
In this case , the girl had been raped by a family friend .
“ I knew I couldn ’ t tell my mom or my immediate family members , ” she told NPR , “ because my pregnancy was the result of a sexual assault from a family friend.
” She said her home “ wasn ’ t necessarily a safe or healthy one at the time.
” Instead of telling her family about the abusive person in their lives , she went before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abortion without her parents ’ consent .
She said she assumed the judge knew she was raped , yet says he told her “ to think harder next time , before I had sex ” — an odd thing to say if the judge knew the girl had been raped .
She went through with the abortion , but what happened to her assailant ?
Is he currently sexually abusing other teens or other members of her family ?
Did he assault her again ?
READ : Massachusetts ROE Act supporters admit the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of The Charlotte Lozier Institute estimates that at least 10,000 abortions have been prevented by the parental notification law in Massachusetts .
Lives saved are , of course , the ultimate goal .
But this goes deeper as well .
The abortion industry , in large part Planned Parenthood , has been exposed for its willingness to cover up the sexual abuse of minors .
They turn a blind eye as rapists bring their victims in for abortions , collecting the money and sending the victims away with their assailants to be abused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mandated to report even suspected abuse , which includes pregnant teens .
Repeatedly , young victims of rape are abused again by the abortion industry , which ignores their pain and suffering in order to make money .
If parents had been made aware , the abuse could have ended for these girls .
Even when abuse isn ’ t involved , parents should know that their teenage daughters have had abortions because major complications , including death , can occur afterward .
If a young girl were to be sent home after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parents would not have the proper information to give to paramedics or the hospital , which could lead to further complications .
Abortion , including the abortion pill , can cause excessive bleeding , hemorrhaging and death .
At least 24 women have died from taking the abortion pill .
Surgical abortions carry additional risks of uterine perforation , infections , and infertility .
Since about half of all states don ’ t report abortion complications , the number of women and girls injured by abortion is unknown .
Beyond that , abortion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues , including depression , drug and alcohol use , and suicide .
Teen girls should not be expected to go through an abortion without the support of their families – left alone to navigate the range of emotions they will likely suffer for years .
The “ Roe Act ” is a dangerous and unnecessary law that seeks not to protect women , but to expand business for the abortion industry .
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In 2019, several states passed extreme pro-abortion laws, while others attempted to do so. Massachusetts was one of the latter. Massachusetts’ “Roe Act” is a Senate bill that has been in committee since last year; it seeks to expand abortion access in the state. It would allow abortion up until birth and would undo the parental notification law for minors obtaining an abortion.
Currently, in Massachusetts, abortion is legal up to fetal viability for any reason. The “Roe Act” would ensure abortion would be legal after 24 weeks for “all factors – physical, emotional, psychological, familial, and the person’s age – relevant to the well-being of the patient.” That means abortion would be legal up until birth for completely elective reasons. According to National Review, abortion is already protected by the state constitution, and the “Roe Act” would move to enshrine it as a right. Abortion will also be protected as a right when the preborn child is said to be “incompatible with sustained life outside the uterus.” In other words, eugenic abortion due to a child’s health condition.
In addition to these now seemingly standard pro-abortion laws in liberal states that leave zero restrictions on abortion, the “Roe Act” would allow abortionists to commit an abortion on minors without parental consent or notification. This is a dangerous move that proves abortion advocates care more about the abortion industry than they do girls.
For example, NPR used the story of a 15-year-old girl pregnant from rape to attempt to show that parental notification of abortion somehow causes harm to young women and girls — but, in fact, it showed the opposite. In this case, the girl had been raped by a family friend. “I knew I couldn’t tell my mom or my immediate family members,” she told NPR, “because my pregnancy was the result of a sexual assault from a family friend.” She said her home “wasn’t necessarily a safe or healthy one at the time.”
Instead of telling her family about the abusive person in their lives, she went before a judge to get permission for an abortion without her parents’ consent. She said she assumed the judge knew she was raped, yet says he told her “to think harder next time, before I had sex” — an odd thing to say if the judge knew the girl had been raped. She went through with the abortion, but what happened to her assailant? Is he currently sexually abusing other teens or other members of her family? Did he assault her again?
READ: Massachusetts ROE Act supporters admit the bill would allow infanticide
Dr. Michael New of The Charlotte Lozier Institute estimates that at least 10,000 abortions have been prevented by the parental notification law in Massachusetts. Lives saved are, of course, the ultimate goal. But this goes deeper as well. The abortion industry, in large part Planned Parenthood, has been exposed for its willingness to cover up the sexual abuse of minors. They turn a blind eye as rapists bring their victims in for abortions, collecting the money and sending the victims away with their assailants to be abused again and again. Abortion facilities are mandated to report even suspected abuse, which includes pregnant teens. Repeatedly, young victims of rape are abused again by the abortion industry, which ignores their pain and suffering in order to make money. If parents had been made aware, the abuse could have ended for these girls.
Even when abuse isn’t involved, parents should know that their teenage daughters have had abortions because major complications, including death, can occur afterward. If a young girl were to be sent home after an abortion and experience hemorrhaging, her parents would not have the proper information to give to paramedics or the hospital, which could lead to further complications. Abortion, including the abortion pill, can cause excessive bleeding, hemorrhaging and death. At least 24 women have died from taking the abortion pill. Surgical abortions carry additional risks of uterine perforation, infections, and infertility. Since about half of all states don’t report abortion complications, the number of women and girls injured by abortion is unknown.
Beyond that, abortion has been linked to serious mental health issues, including depression, drug and alcohol use, and suicide. Teen girls should not be expected to go through an abortion without the support of their families – left alone to navigate the range of emotions they will likely suffer for years.
The “Roe Act” is a dangerous and unnecessary law that seeks not to protect women, but to expand business for the abortion industry.
“Like” Live Action News on Facebook for more pro-life news and commentary!