Katie Klabusich

Host

What a Difference a Buffer Makes!

Jul 3, 2014·90 visitors

Ashley Gray

Cohost

Stage· 225 messages

Jul 3, 2014

The Supreme Court has ruled on the McCullen "buffer zone" case -- so now what? Why do we need buffers? Do buffers even matter?nThe fantastic Ashley Gray is joining me to talk about the establishment of a buffer zone in Englewood, NJ where she co-founded a clinic defense escort program. Come ask questions, learn more & become a buffer evangelist!

Katie Klabusich · 7:00 PM

Hi, everyone! Thanks for coming to "What a Difference a Buffer Makes!” (new ProTip: there’s a mobile app: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/tawkers/id791417999?mt=8 )

Ashley Gray · 7:00 PM

Hi!!!! :) Thanks for joining!

Katie Klabusich · 7:00 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“hey Katie and Ashley :-)”

Katie Klabusich · 7:00 PM

Real quick, if you’re new to Tawkers, Ashley and I will be chatting on the left. And if you’re signed in (it only takes two minutes to set up a profile!), you can add comments/questions on the right. Interrupt any time with questions!

Katie Klabusich · 7:00 PM

Also, definitely use the “arrow” icons to share comments on social media so people you know will be into the discussion can join.

Katie Klabusich · 7:01 PM

Before we start, my tawks are a safe space. Ask questions, share — but no abusive language will be tolerated. If you need to mute someone, click the “ … “ under the thumbs in their comment or click on their profile.

Katie Klabusich · 7:01 PM

With the disclaimers out of the way, let’s start "What a Difference a Buffer Makes!” Thanks for joining me, Ashley!

Ashley Gray · 7:01 PM

Thanks for having me! I am super excited to spread the buffer zone love!

Katie Klabusich · 7:01 PM

I see lots of escorts in the chat, so WOOT -- chime in any time.

Katie Klabusich · 7:01 PM

Ashley is the badass organizer in Englewood, NJ where a successful, new clinic defense escort program was instrumental in unanimously passing a buffer zone at the city council level!

Katie Klabusich · 7:02 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“Congratulations on that!”

Ashley Gray · 7:02 PM

Yes! It took a lot of work, but we made it happen, and it was SO worth it! Thank you!

Katie Klabusich · 7:02 PM

She was on the sidewalk in the worst situation (outside of the 300 Mother’s Day picketers Louisville draws) I’ve ever seen before AND after a buffer. So, glad you could join me today to talk about why buffers matter!

Katie Klabusich · 7:02 PM

Tell me a little bit about how you became not just an escort, but an organizer.

Ashley Gray · 7:03 PM

Well, it all started with an article about a clinic less than 5 miles from me that had been under siege with protesters.

Ashley Gray · 7:04 PM

Reading about what women had to go through to get reproductive care absolutely broke my heart, and I decided to call up the clinic and as, "How can I help?" That was all there was to it. It just takes one person to care enough to act.

Katie Klabusich · 7:04 PM

That's what's super important about clinics.

Katie Klabusich · 7:04 PM

They're very local.

Katie Klabusich · 7:04 PM

People have way more power than they realize.

Ashley Gray · 7:05 PM

It really didn't take long to meet with the clinic staff and figure out their needs. Once that was done, we were able to start escorting. We contacted the Clinic Vest Project and they generously gave us training materials and vests!

Katie Klabusich · 7:05 PM

( @ClinicVest on twitter -- they can connect you to a group or help you start one! )

Ashley Gray · 7:06 PM

People really do have so much more power than they realize, and community organizing is the best way to draw attention to the issue and highlight the need for legislative action!

Katie Klabusich · 7:06 PM

For those who don't know, the Supreme Court just unanimously struck down the MA state-wide buffer of 35-feet that was created after several staff were murdered in the 90's. So, a lot of buffers are being challenged -- which makes buffer evangelists

Katie Klabusich · 7:07 PM

like Ashley and I extra passionate and important right now!

Ashley Gray · 7:07 PM

Yes! Buffer zones are essential for maintaining access to healthcare centers and keeping the peace between protesters and patients.

Ashley Gray · 7:08 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“so,for someone who doesnt know exactly what a buffer zone is - what are they?”

Katie Klabusich · 7:08 PM

Tell people a little of what you saw when you first got to the clinic and was it what you expected?

Katie Klabusich · 7:08 PM

I know that was your first "in your face" experience -- those stories are super powerful.

Ashley Gray · 7:09 PM

I was so nervous that first day, I really didn't know what to expect. It was during a snowstorm, and a man screamed at me for an hour from the safety of his SUV parked on the street. I was absolutely shocked.

Ashley Gray · 7:10 PM

Women were shoving models of fetuses in patients' faces as they were simply walking to the clinic doors... Men yelled and carried huge, gory signs...

Katie Klabusich · 7:10 PM

Big tough guy all toasty in his SUV. -__-

Ashley Gray · 7:11 PM

But the worse the protesters behaved, the more it pushed me to keep helping these patients.

Ashley Gray · 7:11 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“What was the process of getting the ordinance passed in NJ?”

Katie Klabusich · 7:11 PM

YES -- I'm sure a lot of the escorts in the chat know that feeling.

Ashley Gray · 7:11 PM

As soon as we started showing up with vests each Saturday, the City Counsel took notice.

Katie Klabusich · 7:12 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“Ugh, app won't let me tweet.”

Katie Klabusich · 7:12 PM

Andrew -- I'll let the tech guys know.

Katie Klabusich · 7:12 PM

Yeah, it can be really embarrassing for city officials when volunteers are doing THEIR JOB of protecting citizens.

Ashley Gray · 7:13 PM

Once people from the community were willing to stand up and help women gain access to the clinic, the local legislators reached out to us and wanted to help.

Katie Klabusich · 7:13 PM

★ Spotlighted from Michael Cook

“Big tough guy toasty in his SUV screaming at escorts trying to protect women in a snow storm pretty much sums up the antis ”

Ashley Gray · 7:13 PM

Exactly, Katie. I think it was super embarrassing for them.

Katie Klabusich · 7:13 PM

That's what escort groups practice serious non-engagment; drawing the distinction b/t escort (an extension of the clinic) behavior and anti behavior is VERY powerful.

Katie Klabusich · 7:14 PM

**that's why

Ashley Gray · 7:14 PM

Yes, the crazier they are, the calmer we are, and it really sends a clear message to the rest of the community about what's going on.

Katie Klabusich · 7:15 PM

You took particular offense to the phrase "sidewalk counselor" -- especially when you found out about Justice Scalia's wife. Tell us about your reaction.

Katie Klabusich · 7:15 PM

(You can read Ashley's piece here: http://sherights.com/2014/04/03/when-does-a-sidewalk-counselor-become-a-protester/ )

Ashley Gray · 7:15 PM

Organizations like NOW and the New Jersey Abortion Access Fund also got on board when they heard we had assembled a team. Once someone like you or me is willing to say, "I'll be responsible for this. I'll do something." -- everyone else jumps onboard

Katie Klabusich · 7:16 PM

★ Spotlighted from Kate Collins

“What would you recommend to escorts in cities where there isn't necessarily a lot of support from the city in terms of getting a buffer zone? Especially after the SCOTUS ruling?”

Ashley Gray · 7:16 PM

Yes, I was enraged when I heard Justice Scalia defend these people called "sidewalk counselors" -- his wife just happens to be one: fun fact.

Katie Klabusich · 7:17 PM

Kate -- those are places where escorts are EVEN more important. Good training and organizing can make all the difference. It can rally a community around a clinic.

Ashley Gray · 7:17 PM

Kate, I would recommend you get as many people out on that sidewalk as possible.

Katie Klabusich · 7:17 PM

Yeah -- no conflict there! #FireScalia

Katie Klabusich · 7:17 PM

Yep, the bigger the presence - and the more regular the presence -- the harder it will be to harass patients.

Katie Klabusich · 7:17 PM

★ Spotlighted from Michael Cook

“Seems to me that would be a conflict of interests in most cases and an ethical judge would recuse himselfn”

Ashley Gray · 7:17 PM

Regardless of your personal feelings about abortion, NO ONE likes to see women being shamed and intimidated.

Katie Klabusich · 7:17 PM

Michael - yes and yes

Ashley Gray · 7:18 PM

You'd think so, right Michael?

Katie Klabusich · 7:18 PM

If you have detailed questions, the folks in Louisville have REALLY good strategies for doing it on your own. I can connect you if needed. :)

Katie Klabusich · 7:18 PM

So in the McCullen decision that knocked down the MA buffer, Justice Roberts called what the picketers do "quiet counseling."

Katie Klabusich · 7:19 PM

Have you seen a lot of that?

Katie Klabusich · 7:19 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“I started reading Scalia's minority I onion in McCullen, but couldn't finish -- too awful. But he says at one point "Is it harassment to quietly and peacefully* offer a woman literature and tell her she's wrong twice? Three times? Four times?”

Katie Klabusich · 7:19 PM

★ Spotlighted from Kate Collins

“I'm actually a clinic escort from Louisville!”

Ashley Gray · 7:19 PM

Yes, these self-proclaimed "counselors" basically say everything that the loud, aggressive protesters do but in a sweet voice. That is literally the only difference.

Katie Klabusich · 7:19 PM

★ Spotlighted from Michael Cook

“I'm trying very hard not to use profanity at the moment to describe my current feeling toward Scalia ”

Katie Klabusich · 7:19 PM

There's no FCC here -- you're good, Michael.

Katie Klabusich · 7:19 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“100 times?" And I thought "YES! YES IT IS!"nn*peaceful and quiet. Ha!”

Katie Klabusich · 7:20 PM

★ Spotlighted from Christine Cugino

“And that's it for me, Andrew. How many times does a person have to say no before what the anti's are doing is considered harrassment.”

Katie Klabusich · 7:20 PM

But even the quiet folks are outnumbered by the loud mouths in most places.

Katie Klabusich · 7:20 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“Exactly, Christina.”

Ashley Gray · 7:20 PM

I like to tell patients (with "sidewalk counselors" within ear-shot) "If someone is bothering you, you have every right to tell them to leave you alone, and if they don't, call the police."

Katie Klabusich · 7:20 PM

★ Spotlighted from Michael Cook

“Louisville escorts are superheros! :)”

Ashley Gray · 7:21 PM

The more you empower a patient, the easier it is for them to stop the harassment themselves.

Katie Klabusich · 7:21 PM

★ Spotlighted from Christine Salek

“How well-connected are the Clinic Vest people in smaller states? I'm concerned that the couple of times I've contacted them have fallen on deaf ears because I live in Iowa.”

Katie Klabusich · 7:22 PM

Christine -- they may be looking for you and there aren't groups; email clinicvestproject@yahoo.com -- they've also gotten pummeled with requests. ;)

Katie Klabusich · 7:22 PM

★ Spotlighted from Christine Salek

“(Sorry if my question is off-topic, but I'd love to start/join something here, but I don't know if there's a need...)”

Katie Klabusich · 7:22 PM

★ Spotlighted from Michael Cook

“Sweet, Scalia is an absolute unethical asshole then ”

Ashley Gray · 7:22 PM

Christine, they should be able to help you find something in your area. You can also try contacting local clinics directly to ask if they need escorts.

Katie Klabusich · 7:23 PM

That's a great point, Ashley -- escorts very often are a warning and heads up to patients so they are less terrified. They aren't the police or security, but calmly telling someone they may get bothered

Katie Klabusich · 7:23 PM

can really put them at easy by preparing them.

Katie Klabusich · 7:23 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“Even quiet people can harass by not leaving people alone when asked to.”

Katie Klabusich · 7:23 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“I have to head back to work. Will try to return.”

Katie Klabusich · 7:23 PM

Thanks for popping in, Andrew!

Katie Klabusich · 7:23 PM

(go follow Andrew on Twitter -- he's a multi-city escort and about to be lawyer; basically, he's a badass)

Ashley Gray · 7:24 PM

Yes, patient empowerment and just simply giving them information is a great way for escorts to help but not get directly involved.

Katie Klabusich · 7:24 PM

For sure.

Katie Klabusich · 7:24 PM

So you were there pre-buffer; you've been there post-buffer. Has there been a difference in behavior?

Katie Klabusich · 7:24 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“you know what has been nice to see for me? Men getting involved with this. When i first heard about this,i didnt i would. :-)”

Katie Klabusich · 7:24 PM

(The Englewood buffer is "only" 8-feet, by the way; sometimes a little breathing room can make all the difference!)

Ashley Gray · 7:25 PM

There has been a HUGE difference, and like Katie said, our's is only 8ft.

Ashley Gray · 7:25 PM

Not only has the protesters' behavior toned down, but not as many show up. There are less numbers on the sidewalk each week, it has made a huge impact.

Katie Klabusich · 7:26 PM

turns out, not as much fun when you can't be on top of patients!

Ashley Gray · 7:26 PM

Once of the ways I think our buffer zone accomplished such a dramatic change is that it sent a very clear message from the community to these protesters that their actions were not welcome here.

Katie Klabusich · 7:26 PM

YES

Katie Klabusich · 7:27 PM

Law enforcement is not always helpful to local clinics. (Especially the independent ones that don't have national Planned Parenthood resources).

Ashley Gray · 7:27 PM

During the City Council vote, a room full of people got up to testify and speak on behalf of the clinic. A few protesters literally sat in a room full of people who were fed up with them, and voiced it.

Katie Klabusich · 7:27 PM

Yeah, they brought their signs. o.O

Ashley Gray · 7:28 PM

Yes, our law enforcement was not helpful a first whatsoever. One time I literally had to run into the clinic to photo copy an ordinance that the protesters were violating and hand it to the officer just so he would enforce it.

Katie Klabusich · 7:28 PM

"No really, they're violating THE LAW." sigh.

Katie Klabusich · 7:29 PM

Having an enforceable ordinance is really important b/c it doesn't give police the option of who to support.

Katie Klabusich · 7:29 PM

★ Spotlighted from Christine Salek

“Has anyone tried challenging your buffer zone, Ashley, and/or are you aware of anyone moving to do so post-SCOTUS decision?”

Katie Klabusich · 7:29 PM

Yep -- http://www.northjersey.com/mobile/news/legal-opinions-divided-on-englewood-s-buffer-zones-1.1043172

Ashley Gray · 7:29 PM

Yes Lucy, male escorts send a powerful message as well. Men and women can both support this cause, and they should.

Katie Klabusich · 7:29 PM

There's was an immediate challenge, but as Ashley can tell you, the city officials are standing by it.

Katie Klabusich · 7:29 PM

PSA: THIS IS WHY ELECTIONS MATTER.

Ashley Gray · 7:30 PM

Yes, Christine, we already have 2 challenges! Fortunately, we had some brilliant lawyers write our ordinance who had the foresight to anticipate the outcome of the SCOTUS decision, so we are very confident that our with hold up.

Katie Klabusich · 7:30 PM

Even if you're discouraged at the national level, vote vote vote in your local elections.

Katie Klabusich · 7:31 PM

And also at the national level because SCOTUS ffs, but I'm just saying.

Ashley Gray · 7:31 PM

This is why it's so important to pay attention to your local politics.

Katie Klabusich · 7:31 PM

★ Spotlighted from Kendra Cooper

“What sucks is when your choices at the local level are: anti-choice, more anti-choice, and anti-choice -_-”

Katie Klabusich · 7:31 PM

Yes, Kendra, that's rough.

Katie Klabusich · 7:32 PM

I'll do my quick plug: you still have power. If your clinic is being harassed, call the police. Every time. Have your neighbors call. (not 9-11, the non-emergency number)

Katie Klabusich · 7:32 PM

It has worked to "un-invite" picketers in more than one area.

Katie Klabusich · 7:32 PM

When a citizen calls, they have to show up.

Katie Klabusich · 7:32 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“why not stand for elections yourself? (not saying you two hosts but anyone...) Or is it not as easy as it is here?”

Ashley Gray · 7:32 PM

That's so true, Kendra, and my heart breaks for those areas of the country that are not supportive of women's access to reproductive care.

Katie Klabusich · 7:32 PM

Lucy -- money

Katie Klabusich · 7:32 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“ahh thouhgt so”

Katie Klabusich · 7:32 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“oh well just a thought”

Katie Klabusich · 7:33 PM

Tell us a little about your decision to become public and vocal about clinic defense. That's a hard choice for anyone b/c there can be threats or just basic loss of friendships/job opportunities.

Ashley Gray · 7:34 PM

Yes, I wasn't at first. But the more I witnessed the awful behavior of clinic protesters, the more I wanted to "come out of the closet"

Katie Klabusich · 7:34 PM

Ashley Gray · 7:34 PM

People need this information, many people don't even know there is a need for this kind of thing.

Katie Klabusich · 7:34 PM

Exactly. We've both found that when people know what's actually happening, they're horrified.

Ashley Gray · 7:35 PM

I tell people all the time, the protesters can call me a "murdering bitch" all they want as long as a patient doesn't have to hear it. It's worth it to stand up and be vocal about this, or else nothing will change.

Katie Klabusich · 7:36 PM

★ Spotlighted from Kate Collins

“I learned about escorting from protesters! I stopped associating with them once I found out they were protesters. And I was at the clinic the very next Saturday after I found out what they did.”

Katie Klabusich · 7:36 PM

YAS!

Katie Klabusich · 7:36 PM

Exactly -- remember when Westboro was all scary and shit? Yeah, nah so much anymore.

Ashley Gray · 7:37 PM

Yes, Katie, many protesters like to use their position on the sidewalk as a way to recruit new members... I've seen it happen, it's very frustrating. But way more people ask us about how to be an escort, haha

Ashley Gray · 7:38 PM

Like we mentioned earlier, our buffer is only 8ft. Many people criticized that at first, myself included. In a perfect pro-choice world, it would be a million feet.

Katie Klabusich · 7:38 PM

Totally -- and community support is amazing.

Katie Klabusich · 7:38 PM

For sure, but passing something that will hold up is more important than getting everything we want.

Ashley Gray · 7:38 PM

But 8ft is the difference between someone being directly in your face, invading your personal space, and being two arms lengths away. It makes a huge difference to patients.

Katie Klabusich · 7:39 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“One thing I hear a lot is "I could never do what you do," whether it be due to fear being attacked or fear of attacking a protester. I'm sure there are non-front lines things people could do. Do you have any suggestions?”

Ashley Gray · 7:40 PM

I was one of those people, Andrew. I totally get that. But once I was there, and I saw how important the work was, I knew that nothing would stop be from continuing it.

Ashley Gray · 7:40 PM

Escort groups always need help organizing. Someone to help with scheduling...

Ashley Gray · 7:40 PM

fundraising!

Katie Klabusich · 7:40 PM

Yeah, you can always work with local organizers -- infiltrating to make them more radical. ;)

Katie Klabusich · 7:40 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“I'm in no way disparaging the idea. I just wish I had a better answer than *shrug*.”

Katie Klabusich · 7:41 PM

And your local abortion funds are a good place to plug in; they need volunteers for all kinds of things and are generally connected to other volunteer opportunities/counter protesting, etc.

Ashley Gray · 7:42 PM

Escort groups sometimes need money for things like supplies (umbrellas, vests, etc.) Some of ours use zip cars because protesters like to video tape license plates. Someone who didn't want to escort could easily help with things like that.

Katie Klabusich · 7:42 PM

Yes, offering logistical help is HUGE.

Ashley Gray · 7:42 PM

People can help with conducting trainings, there are so many ways to get involved, you don't necessarily have to be an escort.

Katie Klabusich · 7:42 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“That Zipcar idea is GENIUS!”

Katie Klabusich · 7:42 PM

★ Spotlighted from Christine Salek

“I volunteered at a local clinic for awhile after graduating from college. We didn't have escorts, but I'd table at my college's volunteer fair, write and distribute literature, and speak at community forums.”

Katie Klabusich · 7:43 PM

Yes! Chrstine -- I'd also check with your regional Planned Parenthood.

Katie Klabusich · 7:43 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“could I help with that? even tho i'm not in the US?”

Katie Klabusich · 7:43 PM

★ Spotlighted from Christine Salek

“That clinic also organizes one of Iowa's three abortion funds, so that was great to be a part of, too.”

Katie Klabusich · 7:43 PM

Sure, Lucy! Signal boosting fundraising and telling people how to get involved is super important.

Ashley Gray · 7:43 PM

That's great, Christine! People can also help with RECRUITMENT! Ask your friends and family who may be a little more willing to be on the front lines and get them signed up. Every little bit helps.

Katie Klabusich · 7:43 PM

YES -- get us people!

Katie Klabusich · 7:43 PM

lol

Katie Klabusich · 7:43 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“cool .i can but try. :-)”

Ashley Gray · 7:43 PM

We have so many people come bring us donuts and coffee and ice pops when it's hot!

Katie Klabusich · 7:44 PM

Frankly, even just talking about it openly or dispelling myths when you hear them in your every day life is really important.

Katie Klabusich · 7:44 PM

This is a multi-front effort. If we're really going to get rid of these picketers and stop the harassment, we need cultural shift and stigma ending efforts.

Katie Klabusich · 7:44 PM

★ Spotlighted from Christine Cugino

“Just talking and sharing articles is a great way to encourage people to escort if you can't escort yourself.”

Katie Klabusich · 7:44 PM

OMG -- there's a coffee wizard (that's his nickname) in Queens.

Katie Klabusich · 7:45 PM

YUM

Ashley Gray · 7:45 PM

Yep, spreading the word is just as important too! Writing letters to you local legislators and lobbying for buffer zones is important too!

Katie Klabusich · 7:45 PM

Also, feeling that support when they stroll up to the escorts and side eye the picketers is amazing.

Katie Klabusich · 7:45 PM

I just did a tawk with the creator, but here's a plug for Abortion Is Healthcare -- http://www.abortionishealthcare.com

Ashley Gray · 7:46 PM

Some clinics will also allow counter-protests. It is best to check with the clinic first before you do that though.

Katie Klabusich · 7:46 PM

It's a letter writing campaign to tell YOUR doctors that you support abortion care and access; supporting providers is really important. They have to walk through the harassment too.

Katie Klabusich · 7:46 PM

Yes -- definitely check with the clinics first. A lot of them do it when there are LARGE planned protests.

Katie Klabusich · 7:46 PM

There's another "40 Days For Life" coming up, so check with your local groups and see if they're doing counter protesting for it.

Katie Klabusich · 7:46 PM

★ Spotlighted from Christine Salek

“I've found living where I do that being extremely vocal is the only way to find like-minded people locally. The one "women's clinic" here is a Birthright, so the odds are already stacked against us.”

Ashley Gray · 7:47 PM

Hug an escort, say thank you. Little things like that really make a difference.

Katie Klabusich · 7:47 PM

Yes, please. Hugs. All of them.

Katie Klabusich · 7:47 PM

Hugs and abortions for everyone!

Katie Klabusich · 7:48 PM

Just me? ;)

Ashley Gray · 7:48 PM

hahaha!

Katie Klabusich · 7:48 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“escorts are some of the badassed people i am getting to know. the things they do and put up with”

Katie Klabusich · 7:48 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“Miniature American flags for everyone else!”

Ashley Gray · 7:48 PM

It is really empowering work, Lucy. I suffer from anxiety, and I was worried that escorting might make it worse, but really it has HELPED curb it!

Katie Klabusich · 7:49 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“i wish i could come out there and experience this myself. one day i iwll”

Ashley Gray · 7:49 PM

Standing up for something you strongly believe in is unlike any other drug. It is a natural antidepressant, in my opinion, haha

Katie Klabusich · 7:49 PM

The percentage of escorts I know with anxiety disorders <raises hand> is really high. We are really good at sensing and dispelling anxiety in other people.

Katie Klabusich · 7:49 PM

★ Spotlighted from Kendra Cooper

“Whoa, I have social anxiety and that's really the only thing holding me back from contacting clinics to see if they need help.”

Ashley Gray · 7:50 PM

Yep!

Katie Klabusich · 7:50 PM

Kendra -- I do a regular Anxiety Tawk (there'll be another one in about a month) and about half the chat are escorts

Katie Klabusich · 7:50 PM

There's a lot of community in escorting!

Ashley Gray · 7:50 PM

Kendra, I have spoken to many other escorts who have had the same experience that I did.

Katie Klabusich · 7:50 PM

That doesn't mean everyone should do it! Self Care!

Katie Klabusich · 7:51 PM

But it's worth looking into. <3

Ashley Gray · 7:51 PM

Escorting is also a way to get instant friends, as one of my new escorts pointed out recently, haha. It is really a wonderful community to be a part of.

Katie Klabusich · 7:51 PM

★ Spotlighted from Kendra Cooper

“Thanks <3”

Katie Klabusich · 7:51 PM

It's true. You're surrounded by people overloaded with empathy and compassion.

Katie Klabusich · 7:51 PM

And, Ashley can tell you, the first time a patient looks at you from a few inches away with tears in their eyes and says "thank you..." Man.

Katie Klabusich · 7:52 PM

★ Spotlighted from Christine Salek

“Another member of the anxiety party here. Like I said, have never escorted, but I can definitely imagine how doing so might help combat it.”

Ashley Gray · 7:52 PM

I was hooked. I wanted to help every person that I could.

Katie Klabusich · 7:52 PM

Before we run out of time! Follow Ashley on the twitter -- @SmashleyGray

Ashley Gray · 7:52 PM

The first smile I got from a patient, made the entire day worth it.

Katie Klabusich · 7:52 PM

She's doing some amazing shit, yo.

Katie Klabusich · 7:52 PM

★ Spotlighted from Kate Collins

“I have to admit I started because I was mad about the protestors, but after I'd been escorting for a few months one client grabbed my hand as we were walking in, and that was it for me. I couldn't ever have stopped if I wanted to.”

Katie Klabusich · 7:53 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“do any of the patients you escort turn into escorts themselves?”

Ashley Gray · 7:53 PM

Yes, follow me for random social commentary and other things, haha

Katie Klabusich · 7:53 PM

Lucy - yes! And companions.

Ashley Gray · 7:53 PM

Yes, Lucy! I just had a patient email me.

Katie Klabusich · 7:53 PM

(people who are with patients for their appointments)

Ashley Gray · 7:53 PM

They are being trained in a few weeks (we have about 1 training a month). It was so heartwarming to hear that our efforts had touched someone so deeply.

Katie Klabusich · 7:54 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“i guess they know what they are going thru”

Katie Klabusich · 7:54 PM

Imma plug myself for a sec -- I write regularly about reproductive justice/access and have a piece reacting to McCullen up at Truthout (with a follow up on the way)

Katie Klabusich · 7:54 PM

http://truth-out.org/news/item/24642-open-season-on-reproductive-health-care-clinics-a-clinic-escort-responds-to-todays-supreme-court-buffer-zone-decision

Ashley Gray · 7:55 PM

A former patient, is one of the best escorts you could have.

Ashley Gray · 7:55 PM

YAY FOR FOLLOW UPS!

Katie Klabusich · 7:55 PM

The new piece is going to have info on how to help support buffers -- so if anyone (cough, Ash) has stuff they want me to include or know, please message me here or at KatieSpeakMail@gmail.com

Ashley Gray · 7:55 PM

Sweet!!

Katie Klabusich · 7:55 PM

I love Truthout b/c the audience is all "HOW DO WE HELP??"

Katie Klabusich · 7:56 PM

Ashley -- is there anything we missed that you want to make sure folks now?

Katie Klabusich · 7:56 PM

**know

Ashley Gray · 7:57 PM

I would like to just emphasize that WE have the power to really change the face of clinic access. It's going to take everyday individuals to fix this problem, or else it will just get swept under the rug.

Ashley Gray · 7:57 PM

I never thought I'd be able to say that little old me would be able to influence local legislation and really help people in their every day lives, but we did. And it only took a few months.

Katie Klabusich · 7:58 PM

And if anyone wants more detailed info, I'm betting Ashley would be happy to chat with you later. :)

Ashley Gray · 7:58 PM

It was a lot of work, but it was the most rewarding thing I've ever done, and I am so glad I did.

Ashley Gray · 7:58 PM

Please reach out to me and I will help you any way I can!

Katie Klabusich · 7:58 PM

Thank you SO MUCH to everyone who came to chat today!

Katie Klabusich · 7:58 PM

Hopefully we pumped you back up after McCullen -- you have power!

Katie Klabusich · 7:59 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“congrats to Ashley! :-)”

Katie Klabusich · 7:59 PM

★ Spotlighted from Christine Cugino

“Very interesting chat, thanks so much!”

Ashley Gray · 7:59 PM

Thanks so much for your comments and questions, and don't forget to SPREAD THE WORD!!! :)

Katie Klabusich · 7:59 PM

★ Spotlighted from Andrew Daar

“Thank you”

Katie Klabusich · 7:59 PM

Thanks, Ashley, so much for taking time and for the amazing advocacy!

Katie Klabusich · 7:59 PM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“And thanks for this tawk. I know know alot more. :-)”

Katie Klabusich · 7:59 PM

★ Spotlighted from Christine Salek

“Thanks!”

Ashley Gray · 7:59 PM

Thanks for having me, Katie!!! Looking forward to your ThruthOut follow-up!

Forum · 52

Forum· 52 comments

90 visitors

Tawkers AdminJun 24, 2014, 11:48 PM

Welcome to the comment section of the Tawk, where audience members can share their thoughts about the main conversation happening on the left. Don't by shy! Entering questions and comments is the only way to get the attention of the two Hosts on stage!

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:00 PM★ Spotlighted

hey Katie and Ashley :-)

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:02 PM★ Spotlighted

Congratulations on that!

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:02 PM★ Spotlighted

so,for someone who doesnt know exactly what a buffer zone is - what are they?

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:10 PM★ Spotlighted

What was the process of getting the ordinance passed in NJ?

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:11 PM★ Spotlighted

Ugh, app won't let me tweet.

Michael CookJul 3, 2014, 7:13 PM★ Spotlighted

Big tough guy toasty in his SUV screaming at escorts trying to protect women in a snow storm pretty much sums up the antis

Kate CollinsJul 3, 2014, 7:15 PM★ Spotlighted

What would you recommend to escorts in cities where there isn't necessarily a lot of support from the city in terms of getting a buffer zone? Especially after the SCOTUS ruling?

Michael CookJul 3, 2014, 7:17 PM★ Spotlighted

Seems to me that would be a conflict of interests in most cases and an ethical judge would recuse himselfn

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:18 PM★ Spotlighted

I started reading Scalia's minority I onion in McCullen, but couldn't finish -- too awful. But he says at one point "Is it harassment to quietly and peacefully* offer a woman literature and tell her she's wrong twice? Three times? Four times?

Kate CollinsJul 3, 2014, 7:19 PM★ Spotlighted

I'm actually a clinic escort from Louisville!

Michael CookJul 3, 2014, 7:19 PM★ Spotlighted

I'm trying very hard not to use profanity at the moment to describe my current feeling toward Scalia

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:19 PM★ Spotlighted

100 times?" And I thought "YES! YES IT IS!"nn*peaceful and quiet. Ha!

Christine CuginoJul 3, 2014, 7:20 PM★ Spotlighted

And that's it for me, Andrew. How many times does a person have to say no before what the anti's are doing is considered harrassment.

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:20 PM★ Spotlighted

Exactly, Christina.

Michael CookJul 3, 2014, 7:20 PM★ Spotlighted

Louisville escorts are superheros! :)

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:20 PM★ Spotlighted

Even quiet people can harass by not leaving people alone when asked to.

Christine SalekJul 3, 2014, 7:21 PM★ Spotlighted

How well-connected are the Clinic Vest people in smaller states? I'm concerned that the couple of times I've contacted them have fallen on deaf ears because I live in Iowa.

Michael CookJul 3, 2014, 7:21 PM★ Spotlighted

Sweet, Scalia is an absolute unethical asshole then

Christine SalekJul 3, 2014, 7:21 PM★ Spotlighted

(Sorry if my question is off-topic, but I'd love to start/join something here, but I don't know if there's a need...)

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:23 PM★ Spotlighted

I have to head back to work. Will try to return.

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:24 PM★ Spotlighted

you know what has been nice to see for me? Men getting involved with this. When i first heard about this,i didnt i would. :-)

Christine SalekJul 3, 2014, 7:29 PM★ Spotlighted

Has anyone tried challenging your buffer zone, Ashley, and/or are you aware of anyone moving to do so post-SCOTUS decision?

Kendra CooperJul 3, 2014, 7:31 PM★ Spotlighted

What sucks is when your choices at the local level are: anti-choice, more anti-choice, and anti-choice -_-

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:32 PM★ Spotlighted

why not stand for elections yourself? (not saying you two hosts but anyone...) Or is it not as easy as it is here?

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:32 PM★ Spotlighted

ahh thouhgt so

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:32 PM★ Spotlighted

oh well just a thought

Kate CollinsJul 3, 2014, 7:35 PM★ Spotlighted

I learned about escorting from protesters! I stopped associating with them once I found out they were protesters. And I was at the clinic the very next Saturday after I found out what they did.

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:39 PM★ Spotlighted

One thing I hear a lot is "I could never do what you do," whether it be due to fear being attacked or fear of attacking a protester. I'm sure there are non-front lines things people could do. Do you have any suggestions?

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:40 PM★ Spotlighted

I'm in no way disparaging the idea. I just wish I had a better answer than *shrug*.

Christine SalekJul 3, 2014, 7:42 PM★ Spotlighted

I volunteered at a local clinic for awhile after graduating from college. We didn't have escorts, but I'd table at my college's volunteer fair, write and distribute literature, and speak at community forums.

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:42 PM★ Spotlighted

That Zipcar idea is GENIUS!

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:42 PM★ Spotlighted

could I help with that? even tho i'm not in the US?

Christine SalekJul 3, 2014, 7:42 PM★ Spotlighted

That clinic also organizes one of Iowa's three abortion funds, so that was great to be a part of, too.

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:43 PM★ Spotlighted

cool .i can but try. :-)

Christine CuginoJul 3, 2014, 7:44 PM★ Spotlighted

Just talking and sharing articles is a great way to encourage people to escort if you can't escort yourself.

Christine SalekJul 3, 2014, 7:46 PM★ Spotlighted

I've found living where I do that being extremely vocal is the only way to find like-minded people locally. The one "women's clinic" here is a Birthright, so the odds are already stacked against us.

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:48 PM★ Spotlighted

escorts are some of the badassed people i am getting to know. the things they do and put up with

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:48 PM★ Spotlighted

Miniature American flags for everyone else!

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:49 PM★ Spotlighted

i wish i could come out there and experience this myself. one day i iwll

Kendra CooperJul 3, 2014, 7:49 PM★ Spotlighted

Whoa, I have social anxiety and that's really the only thing holding me back from contacting clinics to see if they need help.

Kendra CooperJul 3, 2014, 7:51 PM★ Spotlighted

Thanks <3

Christine SalekJul 3, 2014, 7:52 PM★ Spotlighted

Another member of the anxiety party here. Like I said, have never escorted, but I can definitely imagine how doing so might help combat it.

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:52 PM★ Spotlighted

do any of the patients you escort turn into escorts themselves?

Kate CollinsJul 3, 2014, 7:52 PM★ Spotlighted

I have to admit I started because I was mad about the protestors, but after I'd been escorting for a few months one client grabbed my hand as we were walking in, and that was it for me. I couldn't ever have stopped if I wanted to.

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:53 PM★ Spotlighted

i guess they know what they are going thru

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:58 PM★ Spotlighted

congrats to Ashley! :-)

Christine CuginoJul 3, 2014, 7:59 PM★ Spotlighted

Very interesting chat, thanks so much!

Andrew DaarJul 3, 2014, 7:59 PM★ Spotlighted

Thank you

Lucy DyerJul 3, 2014, 7:59 PM★ Spotlighted

And thanks for this tawk. I know know alot more. :-)

Christine SalekJul 3, 2014, 7:59 PM★ Spotlighted

Thanks!

Kate CollinsJul 3, 2014, 8:00 PM

Thank you so much!