Rep. Williams issues statement on attack at reproductive rights rally

                STATE HOUSE – Rep. Anastasia P. Williams (D-Dist. 9, Providence) is issuing the following statement regarding the assault that occurred at the reproductive rights rally on Friday night:

                “I denounce the violence perpetrated against women.  I denounce the attack on First Amendment rights to protest unjust rulings and laws.  I denounce the callous and cruel assault on a woman’s right to make their own decisions about their bodies.  I denounce the agitators who went to the State House looking to start a fight.  I denounce the political violence inflicted on another fellow woman of color.  I denounce the current inequality of obtaining reproductive health services for ALL women.  I denounce the current culture that leads law enforcement officers to think they could assault not only a woman, but also innocent people - predominantly of color, always in front of an audience, without accountability or the professionalism the job stands for and requires.  And I denounce the hate and intolerance that is tearing our society apart here in our state.  Yet, in the face of these challenges and threats, I will keep fighting for equality and justice for all because everyone deserves a voice, and a choice, to lead their own lives without interference and persecution from the ignorance of others,” said Representative Williams.