An elderly woman from Massachusetts named Paulette Harlow was sentenced to two years in prison for her involvement in a 2020 pro-life demonstration at an abortion clinic. Along with 10 other pro-life activists, Harlow was charged with civil rights conspiracy and violations of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. The group forcefully blocked the doors of the clinic using their bodies, furniture, chains, and ropes, preventing the clinic from providing reproductive health services. This act is a violation of the FACE Act, signed into law by President Clinton in 1994.
Harlow explained that the demonstration was peaceful and aimed at intervening between the abortionist and the mothers, offering them support and love. She became pro-life in 1965 after seeing Lennart Nilsson’s photographs of 18-week-old fetuses in Life magazine. Harlow’s husband, John, expressed distress over his wife’s legal situation, emphasizing that the real issue is the prevalence of abortions. He stated that they are in this together and wish the outcome had been different, but they accept the reality of the situation.
The pro-life activist, who has various medical conditions, expressed concern that incarceration could worsen her health as she wouldn’t have access to necessary medical care. Harlow also mentioned that her sister Jean is in jail over the same incident, further highlighting the family’s commitment to their cause. Despite the challenges, Harlow considers her involvement in the demonstration and the subsequent trial as an honor and a privilege, as not everyone has the opportunity to stand up for their beliefs in court.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Harlow emphasized the importance of making the voices of unborn children heard and visible to society. She believes that children have no voice and are often hidden, and it is crucial to advocate for their protection and rights. Harlow and her fellow activists were motivated by their belief in the sanctity of life and their desire to support mothers in difficult circumstances. The group’s actions were aimed at peacefully intervening to prevent abortions and offer compassionate alternatives to women facing unplanned pregnancies.
The Justice Department, when contacted by Fox News Digital for comment on Harlow’s sentencing, did not respond. Harlow’s husband expressed his dismay at the trial and the sentence handed down to his wife, highlighting the devastating impact on their lives. Despite the challenges they face, the Harlow family remains committed to their pro-life beliefs and the advocacy for the rights of unborn children. The case serves as a reminder of the complex legal and moral issues surrounding abortion, civil rights, and the protection of life, with implications for broader societal debates and discussions on reproductive health services and individual freedoms.
