Latest Raleigh protests focus on women’s rights

Published 12:00 am Monday, July 15, 2013

RALEIGH (AP) — The latest weekly protests of Republican policies at North Carolina’s General Assembly is taking place as legislation regulating abortion is waiting to be finalized.

The state chapter of the NAACP said today’s demonstration will focus upon women’s rights and leadership. More than 700 people have been arrested at the Legislative Building in expressions of civil disobedience since the “Moral Monday” protests began in April.

A bill requiring more stringent rules for abortion clinics and demands upon physicians who perform abortions passed the House last week. A Republican Senate leader said lawmakers will take time to consider the changes. If senators go along, GOP Gov. Pat McCrory says he will sign it into law.

Republican groups are planning their own rally on Tuesday in support of GOP lawmakers and the governor.