Planned Parenthood, Pro-Choice Groups Celebrate 'National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day

"Abortion is about gender equity and self-determination..."

Abortion is, no doubt, one of the most contentious issues in the sociopolitical spectrum. So, considering that Planned Parenthood and other women's organizations promoted the "National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day" (NAPAD) earlier this month, it's no surprise that pro-life advocates have subsequently been up in arms.

Believe it or not, the commemorative "holiday" has been around for quite some time. It was launched in 1996 in an effort to praise the work of abortionists and their associated clinics.

According to a description published by Amplify, a youth organization that tackles reproductive issues, the NAPAD was created to honor these individuals and institutions amid alleged harassment and threats that they purportedly face from the pro-life cohort.

"Unfortunately, many abortion providers continue to face significant risks, including harassment, stalking, threats to family members, and even violence," the group's web site explains. "Despite these risks, they continue to stand with us and provide care."

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So, for the past 17 years, abortion clinics have been honored annually on March 10 for their work. Planned Parenthood, among other groups, took the opportunity to tweet about the event, writing, "Today is the National Day of Appreciation for #Abortion Providers. We appreciate these courageous professionals today and every day. #NDAAP."

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[blackbirdpie url="https://twitter.com/ProChoiceMN/status/311136950990036993"]

Amplify also put together an initiative to help commemorate the day, encouraging readers to print signs that praise abortion providers, then take pictures of themselves holding the messages. Then, these individuals were encouraged to send the photos back to the organization.

Photo Credit: Amplify

Among the messages directed at abortion providers were notes telling them, "You are amazing" and "Thank you," among other accolades.

Amplify also asked abortion providers to explain why they are actively engaged in offering the procedure. One unnamed individual praised the option as one that is much-needed by women.

"For me providing abortions is both a conscientious commitment to women and a political one," it reads. "Abortion is about gender equity and self-determination, more than simply a medical procedure that women need when they determine that it is not the right time for them to carry a pregnancy any further or to raise a child."

(H/T: Live Action News)

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