An elderly woman from Massachusetts, Paula “Paulette” Harlow, was sentenced to two years in prison for participating in a pro-life demonstration at an abortion clinic in 2020. Harlow, along with 10 other activists, were charged with civil rights conspiracy and FACE Act violations for blocking the clinic’s entrances. They used their bodies, furniture, chains, and ropes to create a blockade and live-streamed their activities. The defendants were accused of conspiring to prevent the clinic from providing reproductive health services to patients. Blocking abortion clinics is a violation of the FACE Act, signed into law by President Clinton in 1994.
Harlow, a Catholic, has been on house arrest and expects to surrender to authorities soon. She described the demonstration as peaceful and aimed at intervening between the death of the child and the abortionist. Harlow explained that she became pro-life after seeing a photograph of an 18-week-old fetus in Life magazine in 1965. She believes that children have no voice and are hidden, and she feels compelled to make them visible and heard. Harlow’s husband, John Harlow, expressed concern over her legal situation and emphasized the importance of focusing on the issue of abortion rather than his wife’s sentence.
Despite facing health issues at the age of 76, Harlow worries that incarceration could worsen her condition by limiting access to necessary care and separating her from her husband, who provides assistance. Her sister, Jean, is also in jail for the same incident, and Harlow views the experience as an honor but acknowledges the challenges ahead. Harlow’s activism stems from a deep concern for the unborn and a desire to protect their lives by peacefully demonstrating against abortion practices. The DOJ was contacted for comment on the case but did not respond to inquiries.
Harlow’s dedication to the pro-life cause and her willingness to put herself at risk for the sake of the unborn demonstrate her strong convictions and commitment to defending life. Despite facing imprisonment and health challenges, she remains steadfast in her beliefs and advocates for the protection of unborn children. Her husband’s support and concern reflect the emotional toll of the legal situation on their family and underscore the gravity of the abortion issue at hand. The legal implications of the case highlight the ongoing debate surrounding reproductive rights and the role of activism in addressing contentious social issues. The story of Paula “Paulette” Harlow sheds light on the personal sacrifices and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals who engage in direct action to uphold their beliefs.
