BREAKING: Tiller Family Closes Clinic

Just saw this from the AP:

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) _ The family of slain abortion provider George
Tiller said Tuesday that his Wichita clinic will be "permanently
closed," effective immediately.

In a statement released by Tiller's attorneys, his family said it
is ceasing operation of Women's Health Care Services Inc. and any
involvement by family members in any other similar clinic.

"We are proud of the service and courage shown by our husband and
father and know that women's health care needs have been met because
of his dedication and service," the family said.

Tiller was shot to death May 31 while serving as an usher at the
Lutheran church in Wichita that he regularly attended. Scott Roeder is
being held on charges of first-degree murder and aggravated assault in
Tiller's death.

Tiller's family said it will honor his memory through private
charitable activities.

Family members said they wanted to assure Tiller's previous
patients that the privacy of their medical histories and patient
records will remain "as fiercely protected now and in the future" as
they were during Tiller's lifetime.

While I understand the Tiller family's concern, this sends a dangerous message to would-be attackers out there that they can be successful in closing clinics through violence. Given that Tiller's accused shooter has warned of more violence to come, this is a pretty scary time to be a provider.


This also has pretty terrible implications for women seeking abortions. Not only does it raise serious access questions, but it sends a pretty basic message to them as well.


I guess sometimes, the terrorists win.


Update: The fabulous Jen Nedeau at Change.org has a great analysis of how this fits in with the larger Kansas political landscape, including some great background on the anti-Tiller attacks. Check it out here.