Up to 17,000 people are expected at the “Bans Off Our Bodies” abortion rights demonstration in Washington, D.C., on Saturday. News4’s Megan McGrath reports.
What to Know
- The Bans Off Our Bodies protest in Washington, D.C., is set for Saturday afternoon.
- Parking restrictions and street closures are expected; attendees are encouraged to take Metro.
- Speakers include U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee, who has opened up about getting an abortion as a teen.
Editor's Note: During the Bans Off Our Bodies demonstration on Saturday, follow live coverage and see video of here.
A leaked draft opinion suggesting that Supreme Court justices are poised to overturn Roe v. Wade has set off a wave of pro-abortion-rights protests, culminating in a large demonstration set for Saturday in Washington, D.C.
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What is the 'Bans Off Our Bodies' protest?
The Bans Off Our Bodies demonstration, organized in part by the Women's March, is expected to draw up to 17,000 people to the National Mall, according to a permit approved by the National Park Service.
Authorities are encouraging people to avoid the National Mall area if they’re not demonstrating. Parking restrictions and street closures will be in effect; attendees are encouraged to take Metro.
Local
Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia local news, events and information
A stage with a large “bans off our bodies” banner is standing near the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Reproductive rights advocates are slated to speak.
Along with the major demonstration in D.C., more than 350 companion events are planned nationwide.
Here’s what to know about the abortion rights protest in D.C. this weekend.
When is the 'Bans Off Our Bodies' protest in D.C.?
The protest is set for Saturday, May 14.
Events include a rally at the Washington Monument at 12:30 p.m., then a march to the Supreme Court at 2 p.m. The protest is scheduled to wrap up about 4 p.m.
Who are the 'Bans Off Our Bodies' protest speakers?
Event organizers say lawmakers and advocates will speak on reproductive rights, including U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee, who has opened up about terminating a pregnancy as a teen.
- Laphonza Butler, Emily's List
- Barbara Lee, Congresswoman
- Mary Kay Henry, SEIU
- Dr. Peggy Ye
- Rachel O'Leary Carmona, Women's March
- Sonja Spoo, UltraViolet
- Sarah Eagle Heart, Women's March
- Anne Maria Bantize, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Rights
- Councilwoman Janeese Lewis George, DC
- Nee Nee Taylor, Harriet's Wildest Dreams
- Toshi Reagon (with a musical performance)
What are the road closures and no parking zones?
D.C. police say drivers may encounter street closures and no parking zones, but hadn’t released a full list by Friday morning.
