Anti-abortion activists staged rallies around the country Saturday, calling for the federal government to cut off payments to Planned Parenthood. But in some cities, including right here in New York, counter-protests dwarfed the demonstrations. NY1's Erin Clarke joins us live now from Greenwich Village with more.
Weekend protests have become the norm since Donald Trump was elected President. Americans have taken to the streets to voice opposition to a right-wing agenda every week since the inauguration.
But Saturday groups across the country protested in support of something Republicans have long called for — defunding the non-profit health organization, Planned Parenthood.
"We're not just out here saying defund Planned Parenthood, we want them to go because of the agenda that they stand for," said Yasmin Neil.
"Essentially what Planned Parenthood is supporting is this culture where human life is disposable and that's simply not acceptable," said Rich Pluta.
In the city, a small group carried on a "silent protest" outside of a Planned Parenthood facility in SoHo.
"We're not chanting, because we really didn't want to scare any women," said one protester. "We're not protesting the women that are here. We're protesting Planned Parenthood. We're protesting so that Congress sees we want our dollars to go fund other health centers."
The anti-Planned Parenthood protesters were met with louder opposition though, from those who stood with Planned Parenthood marching across the street.
But it was here at Washington Square Park, about a ten minute walk away where a sizable rally was held in support of the non-profit organization.
"I think it's very important that we stand together for equal health care, for women's rights, for trans rights, for all people's rights and Planned Parenthood has always been a staunch supporter of that providing accessible healthcare," said organizer Cristina Pitter.
"I think that our rights during this presidency are in danger cause we could just go so far backwards and we can't go backwards," said another protester.
Hundreds came out, including elected officials, urging the crowd to continue their advocacy beyond this one rally.
"I think that we have to put our voices out there," said Annie Robertson. "Hopefully just knowing that women are not going to shut up anymore will get them to stop."
Efforts many hope will preserve what they call equal access to quality health care.