Twenty-two years ago, I went to work for Planned Parenthood, after returning from a country where sexual and reproductive health care were severely restricted. I was grateful that they provided access to care, regardless of a patient’s means. I witnessed the need for care among patients impacted by adverse childhood experiences, trauma and abuse. I admired the bravery of patients facing ongoing harassment at our curbside just to seek affordable, respectful health care.

I recently returned to Planned Parenthood of Greater Washington and North Idaho to help build a behavioral health program. We now provide counseling for people experiencing depression, anxiety, intimate partner violence, PTSD and other mental health conditions. The continued protest, noise and objectification projected at our patients and staff is disruptive. Loud and malicious insults are hurtful, triggering and have negative impacts on people trying to access health care.

According to trauma expert Dr. Van Kolk “the parts of the brain that evolved to monitor for danger remain over activated and even the slightest sign of danger, real or misperceived, can trigger an acute stress response, accompanied by intense unpleasant emotions and overwhelming sensations.” Why does the Spokane Police Department continue to tolerate this ongoing harassment of patients in violation of state law?

Please support Councilwoman Lori Kinnear’s proposed noise ordinance and encourage others to speak up for a patient’s right to access care in a non-threatening environment. Remind SPD that in this country, all patients still have the right to receive safe and effective care without fear.

Laurel Kelly

Spokane