(22 Jan 1996) English/Nat
The emotional issue of abortion is once again in the spotlight in the American capital. It's the 23rd anniversary of the Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion.
Thousands of opponents marched in Washington in protest, although abortion rights advocates say this day should be celebrated.
Abortion opponents from across America were in Washington for their annual rally and march from the White House to the Supreme Court.
They came in their thousands to demonstrate and commemorate the 23rd anniversary of the High Court's landmark Roe versus Wade decision legalising most abortions.
Armed with placards and crosses these protestors marched across the American capital calling for President Clinton's resignation.
Many are criticising Clinton for his threat to veto legislation that would outlaw a certain kind of late term abortion.
If the legislation passed, it would be the first attempt to prohibit a specific kind of abortion procedure since the Supreme Court decision in 1973.
Today's marchers were feeling optimistic about the future for the pro-life movement.
(UPSOUND: In the name of Jesus, in the name of Jesus, we're gonna take it back.)
Many marchers feel that President Clinton is the only big stumbling block in the way of repealing legalised abortion.
SOUNDBITE: "President Clinton, I would tell him that I'm here to be counted. I'm one of those who is right, not politically correct and he should do the same thing."
SUPER CAPTION: Peggy Rendely, Pro-life Marcher
That philosophy doesn't go down well with Pro-Abortion advocates who fear that abortion will be a big issue for this years national elections.
SOUNDBITE: "So, it will be an important issue. The President right now is the only person in my view and our view that stands between illegal and legal abortions in this country. But, But, even the Presidency is not enough to protect women from the legislative assault."
SUPER CAPTION: Kate Michelman, President, NARAL (National Abortion Rights Action League)
Today's marchers however are hoping that the growing support for pro-life issues by the Republican party will help the pro-life movement politically on Capitol Hill.
SOUNDBITE: "People are coming out to support life and people are rallying to support life and it's not going to stop here it's going to continue till we get Clinton out of office.
SUPER CAPTION: Jim McGreevy, Pro-Life Marcher
The marchers want to concentrate their efforts on the White House and Congress as there is likely to be little change any time soon in the Supreme Court towards a more conservative stance.
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