According to the Center for Reproductive Rights, the recetly murdered Dr. George Tiller,of Kansas, was not well protected, and was forced to work in circumstances that are much more dangerous than other healthcare providers.
The Center cites the fact that there is a long history of violations to these doctors' physical security, including murder. Protection from the state has not been adequate. Physicians providing abortions face an array of threats and assaults, including intimidation of family members, and stalking.
In August 2008, the Center nominated Dr. Tiller for the Netherlands government annual Human Rights Tulip award for people who have shown exceptional moral courage in protecting the rights of fellow citizens.
This is what Nancy Northup, president of the Center had to say after Dr. Tiller was murdered.
"I am deeply saddened by the tragic news of Dr. Tiller's murder. Dr. Tiller has been a stalwart and fearless defender of women's fundamental health and rights, providing abortions despite decades of relentless and vicious attacks on his clinic, family and private life. His death is a devasting loss to the reproductive rights movement and to women across the country. We send our condolences to his family and friends."
I too send my condolences.