Like tens of thousands of other people, I ran in Bloomsday this year. It’s become an annual event for me, much as it has for so many others in Spokane. The family-oriented nature of the event is part of what makes it so much fun. I was a bit surprised then to see such a grotesque display by those protesting abortion on Riverside Avenue. While I firmly believe they have every right to be there, I question whether it was the appropriate setting given the nature of the event.

Despite the fact that I think this protest was in poor taste, I also recognize that this incident gives us an opportunity to discuss critical issues like reproductive rights and thank area organizations such as Planned Parenthood for being at the forefront of protecting reproductive freedom and for providing crucial medical care and services to millions of people who may not otherwise have access to them.

The protesters wanted to shock us and smear organizations like Planned Parenthood so we don’t recognize all the good they do. Let’s not give them what they want.

Blaine Stum

Spokane