On campus at the University of Akron, we often have different groups protesting or speaking about issues that they are passionate about. I'm sure most students have seen groups gathered by the library talking about something, whether it be religion or sexual orientation. One group that seems to make a lasting impact is the antiabortion activists, however, their impact is not always a positive one. Their protests are usually over the top, and the display they put up on campus on Wednesday was no exception. Outside of the library, there were several signs and even a television with graphic images and videos. Usually I ignore the groups that gather to protest at the library, but it was difficult to not pay attention. There was a crowd of students gathered around to look at it, and I went to check it out. It made me wonder, is this big display really necessary? Do they think it is an effective way to get their voices heard?

Now, I'm not here to argue whether or not abortion is right or ethical. My main concern is the way they make it known that they don't believe in abortion. While I was looking at the video they were playing, a woman who was with the organization came up to me and asked what my views were. After talking with her and listening to what she had to say, I realized that she was rational and had reasons to back up her beliefs. If someone were to just look at the display, they might think that everyone in the organization was just a crazy extremist shouting about abortion. So is their protest actually working? If the students think your group is crazy, it is unlikely that they will listen to what you have to say. The woman I talked with said that the display grabs people's attention and makes them want to look up more information about it and learn the truth. I talked to some of the students who witnessed the protest and asked what they thought. Most said that it did the opposite. It would deter them from wanting to learn more or check out what their organization has to say. Also, the fact that the protest was run by a man was upsetting to one student that I spoke with. She doesn't believe that men understand and they shouldn't have a say when it comes to women reproductive health.

This protest also caused chaos on campus. Several students were upset with the claims they were making against Planned Parenthood, and spoke out against them. The members of the organization were rude to the students, and said things such as "we're living in America, not Afghanistan" and "this is a public space, we are allowed to do this." This protest is not effective, and it is only causing students to feel unsafe and uncomfortable on campus. It only causes conflict and distress.

I understand that groups want to share their opinions, and they think that college students are the best crowd to share them with. However, this display takes it too far. No one wants to see photos of abortions and graphic images while walking to class. If they want to protest, they should do it without the signs and videos, and voice their opinions in a more subtle and civil way.