Though an anti-choice bill will ultimately affect only her community, Washington D.C. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton has been denied the opportunity to testify on an abortion bill that will target her own district.
Her request to speak on the bill, which would limit abortions to 20 weeks in D.C, was rejected by Representative Trent Franks, Chairman of the House Subcommittee on the Constitution.
Conveniently enough, Rep. Franks (R-Ariz.), is the author of the anti-abortion bill. Even more insidiously, Rep. Franks has allowed the witness panel to be stacked with anti-abortion doctors.
These bullying, underhanded tactics are yet another attempt by the GOP to continue the war on women through any possible means. Delegate Norton's fight is not just a matter of importance in the nation's capitol; it is also representative of the greater struggle of women throughout the nation to retain basic reproductive rights.
Tell Franks: Let Congresswoman Norton testify!
We the undersigned demand that you allow Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton the opportunity to testify at the hearing of the House Subcommittee on the Constitution.
We understand that you are the author of the bill that has created a controversy, however, you should not disallow your opponents from speaking their views.
To Holmes’ speaking rights is a conflict of interest and, seemingly, a bullying tactic.
In fairness, we ask you to allow Holmes to speak at the hearing that will heavily affect the community that she represents.
Thank you for taking our comments and concerns into serious consideration.
