Today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade sparked a protest in New Bedford, while opponents of abortion hailed the ruling as a victory nearly 50 years in the making.
More demonstrations are planned on Cape Cod on Saturday as local residents respond.
The 6-3 decision ends the constitutional right to an abortion and gives states the power to enforce their own laws.
Marlene Pollock, an organizer with the Coalition for Social Justice, attended the rally at the corner of County and Union Streets in New Bedford, where she said about 20 people had gathered by early afternoon.
Passing drivers honked their horns in support as Pollock talked about the rally by phone.
"This young lady … has a terrific sign: ‘Pro-life is a lie. You don't care if women die,'" she said.
Pollock said some women will die, and that for those who give birth, Republicans won’t provide money for child care.
Around the South Coast, Cape Cod, and the Islands, abortion-rights supporters said they were shocked and dismayed, though not surprised at the Court decision, which followed a leaked draft in May.