Controversy Continues Over Pro-Life Flag In Nyack

A Planned Parenthood representative appeared at yesterday's Village Board meeting and asked that the Village of Nyack issue a public statement regarding the pro-life flag that recently flew over Village Hall.

Planned Parenthood is one of the nation's foremost reproductive health care groups, and lobbies the U.S. government for pro-choice legislation. The organization has offices in Rockland and Westchester.

"You sent a powerful message by flying a pro-life flag," said Lisa Winjum, the Director of Public Policy and Advocacy for Planned Parenthood, yesterday. "We are asking you take the time to make an equally public statement [on our behalf]."

"Say the village is not anti-abortion," she added. "Do something public that says that's not your personal position."

The issue began in early June when the Village of Nyack chose to hoist a Gay Pride flag for Gay Pride Month.

"Flying the Gay Pride flag at Village Hall sends a powerful message that Nyack supports fair and equal treatment for everyone," Mayor Richard Kavesh wrote on Nyack's website after the flag went up.

Shortly after, Respect for Life—a pro-life group—requested the village also display their flag. Nyack's trustees allowed it, as law dictates political messages have equal protection and rights.

Respect for Life could not be reached for comment.

Both flags were removed from the municipal pole not long after, leaving only the original American flag and POW/MIA flag. But Planned Parenthood is still discontent with the village's actions.

Winjum said seeing the Respect for Life flag was a blow for her and pro-choice residents, and added fuel to an already contentious debate.

"I've had a sign that says 'babykiller' held over my head," Winjum said. "You cannot imagine what it is like to be treated that way."

Mayor Kavesh acknowledged Winjum's comments, and noted the village is in the process of creating a statement.

"As a personal pro-choice person… we'll draft something for you," he said.

Some pro-choice Nyack residents came out to support Winjum and her request.

"[The Respect for Life] flag is not representative of so many of us," said Nyack resident Denise Cohen. "It's offensive."