The Common Ground Network for Life and Choice Manual

NEWS RELEASE
[March _ 1999]
STATEMENT ON THE ASHEVILLE CLINIC BOMBING
Yesterday's bombing at the Femcare clinic in Asheville, North Carolina was a tragedy and an
outrage. We join with pro-life and pro-choice leaders in condemning it.
Preventing further terrorist acts will require more than sorrow and condemnation. The Common
Ground Network for Life and Choice is the only national organization bringing together
pro-choice and pro-life advocates for peaceful dialogue and cooperative action.
Peaceful dialogue means more than just talk. Peaceful dialogue means getting beyond the
stereotypes and labels that dehumanize our adversaries and encourage the kind of violence
perpetrated in Asheville. Peaceful dialogue means understanding and addressing the legitimate
concerns of those with whom we disagree, without yielding one bit of our own cherished values
and beliefs.
At the Network for Life and Choice, pro-life and pro-choice advocates learn to respect each
other as individuals and recognize our shared values. As we unite in seeking to reduce the rate
of teen pregnancy, so do we share common ground in opposing violence against abortion
providers. Such violence only breeds fear and anger, sapping our ability to work together to
address difficult national issues.
We call upon pro-choice and pro-life leaders to set an example and join the dialogue. Let us
show that we can break the cycle of violence. And let us show another way, the way of
connection and understanding.
Recently the Network for Life and Choice published Common Ground on Clinic Activism. a joint
paper by a pro-life veteran of Operation Rescue and the director of a clinic that performs
abortions. Common Ground on Clinic Activism points the way towards reconciliation of
competing legitimate values in this difficult area.
For further information on this or any of the Network's activities call Mary Jacksteit at 202-265-
4300 extension 212.
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