NC GOP may change abortion law, but Charlotte clinic isn’t closing until ‘bitter end’
Calla Hales never takes her eyes away from her laptop for long, but she took a deep breath in December for the first time in a long time.
The holidays this year are less stressful at the Charlotte abortion clinic she runs than usual.
“We’re in this nice little lull where we only have so many protesters,” said Hales, the executive director of A Preferred Women’s Health Center. “It’s much needed.”
As the words come out, a protester with a microphone booms outside, “You’re profiting off the lives of babies.” The voice echoes through the walls above steady background noise from protesters.
Hales doesn’t flinch. This is nothing compared to the year she’s had and what’s to come in 2023.
The U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June, giving states the right to ban abortion. Abortion remains legal in North Carolina before 20 weeks of pregnancy and Hales’ Charlotte clinic has become a refuge for out of state patients seeking abortion care.
Republicans in the General Assembly say they plan to consider additional restrictions on abortion during the 2023 legislative session.
Hales’ Charlotte clinic — she runs four across two states — has gone viral online for the loud and constant protests outside.
“It’s not a good feeling to know that you are nationally known for being the most hated and protested abortion clinic in the United States,” Hales said.
Hales normally can bite her tongue when the protesters yell — but sometimes she can’t resist. Hales is Jewish and has heard an increase in antisemitic comments by protesters lately. It’s different when the attacks get personal.
“Do as Calla says, not as Calla does,” Hales said. “That’s the running joke. I can manage to keep my mouth shut 90% of the time, I would honestly say 95%. But there’s that 5% where I have had it and somebody says something just just a tad too far.”
It’s easy to joke and yell back random absurdities, she said, but there are times it can get scary. People have disguised themselves to get into her office. She’s had to find bars where the owners know who she is and what she does so she can have a safe public space to be with friends.
But despite the threats and hate, she’s not afraid for the future. There’s a difference between fear and caution, and Hales said she’s cautious, vigilant and aware. Hales and A Preferred Women’s Health Center are staying put.
“I think that if any type of restriction does pass, that we’re still going to be here,” Hales said. We’re going to be here until the very bitter end until they force us to completely close. And they’re going to have to.”
