Scottish police arrested 75 year old pro-life advocate Rose Docherty outside Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow for holding a sign that read, “Coercion is a crime, here to talk, only if you want.”
Docherty, who was the first person charged under the new “Safe Access Zones” law earlier this year, says she stood peacefully without approaching anyone and should not be treated as a criminal for inviting conversation. “I held my sign with love and compassion, inviting anyone who wants to chat, to do so,” she explained. “Conversation is not forbidden on the streets of Glasgow, and yet this is the second time I have been arrested for doing just that.”
The legislation, introduced last year by Scottish Green MSP Gillian Mackay, criminalizes any behavior deemed capable of influencing a woman’s decision about abortion within designated zones around hospitals and clinics. Critics warn the law silences peaceful free expression and targets those offering support to women in crisis pregnancies.
Docherty has said she would be willing to face jail time for her witness.
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