Supreme Court Hands Down Pro-Life Victory      3/1/2006
By Beth Andersen

NOW’s attempt fails to label protests as extortion.

Click here for CWA's audio interview with Joe Scheidler.

Pro-life activist Joseph Scheidler’s long battle with the National Organization for Women (NOW) ended after today’s ruling of the U.S. Supreme Court in his favor. The Court voted 8-0.

The NOW v. Scheidler case began in 1986 when NOW attempted to use the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) and the Hobbs Act to penalize pro-lifers who demonstrate in front of abortion clinics. This would label these demonstrations as extortion. Their outlandish claims produced a case that would last over 19 years and, in the end, provided a victory for the free speech of pro-life activists everywhere.

In an unusual circumstance, the case came before the Supreme Court three times.The Court ruled against Scheidler the first time and on his behalf the final two times.

“Thank God the U.S. Supreme Court smacked down NOW – again – and abortion clinics’ blind pursuit to crush pro-life protesters and, in the process, demolish all Americans’ First Amendment rights,” said Wendy Wright, Concerned Women for America’s (CWA’s) President. “CWA is proud to have stood with Joe Scheidler, Timothy Murphy, Operation Rescue and the other defendants to protect free speech for all.”

CWA filed two amicus briefs on behalf of Scheidler written by volunteer attorney Theresa Schrempp. Wendy Wright testified at a trial early in the case’s proceedings, providing eyewitness accounts proving that NOW’s witnesses perjured themselves in claiming violence occurred.

“CWA is grateful to attorney Theresa Schrempp, who wrote CWA's briefs, for her commitment, thorough research and convincing arguments,” said Jan LaRue CWA’s Chief Counsel.

Pro-life America rejoices in this greatly anticipated victory. It is not only a pro-life triumph-- it is a ruling that upholds every American’s First Amendment rights.

Today’s ruling is an answer to many prayers. It vindicates Joe Scheidler and paves the way for other pro-life advocates to take a stand for life.

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