Planned Anti-Abortion Protest At Inaugural Parade Hits Snags

The Christian Defense Coalition is planning a series of anti-abortion rallies and demonstrations during the Presidential inauguration. The Birmingham Letter Project website sets out the schedule and related information. In a letter (full text) sent to federal authorities last Tuesday, organizers requested a meeting with officials to work out the logistics of a demonstration scheduled during the inaugural parade. A press release from the group yesterday explains that they plan to display photos along the Inaugural Parade route depicting the development of a child from conception until birth. The National Park Service apparently is likely to issue a demonstration permit, but says it is unable to assure organizers that they will have access to the requested sidewalk locations. Four years ago, the group had a permit, but parade watchers had taken over their assigned area. Organizers this time have asked for early screened access so they will not be pre-empted by others. It is not clear whether this request will be granted.