In a story
published at Town Hall, National
Journalism Center intern Cortney O’Brien exposed an attempt by the City of
Austin, Texas and pro-abortion advocates to undermine free speech.
The Lone Star State itself tends to oppose abortion. Austin, home of the University of Texas, has
developed into a more liberal enclave.
Feeling the backing of this part of the community, the city launched an
ordinance campaign against Austin LifeCare to try and drive away business.
O’Brien writes:
Austin
LifeCare is the latest in a string of pro-life pregnancy resource centers
across the country required to hang a sign that could potentially turn
customers away. The city of Austin passed a 2012 ordinance stating that
LifeCare, along with three other local pregnancy centers, must post a black and
white notice reading they do not offer “medical services.” Although not
officially stated, these “services” are meant to alert visitors the center does
not offer abortions or birth control. Refusal to comply with these regulations
can result in fines up to $450, according to official court documents.
She goes on to relate the difficult fight that
Austin LifeCare faces. The power of
government has linked with the financial resources of the abortion industry.
The story also details the court fight so far and
the future obstacles facing pro-life pregnancy centers. Conservatives at the University of Texas have
an opportunity to stand up for the First Amendment. They can let Austin city leaders know how
wrong headed their anti-life policies are.
Cortney O’Brien has worked with National Journalism
Center since September.