Omaha, NE— During a press conference today, Governor Pete Ricketts doubled down on his support for open carry laws at the Nebraska State Capitol, saying people should be “thoughtful” when deciding to bring a gun to a protest. Below is a statement from Meg Mikolajczyk, Deputy Director of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Nebraska:
“Governor Ricketts's support for guns in the people’s Capitol is unacceptable, especially as right-wing militias and white supremacists openly plan more violent attacks on our country.
"Armed militants just occupied our nation’s Capitol for the first time in over 200 years and we cannot stand by while these white nationalists are allowed to attack the people’s house. The injustice of the police response last week is undeniable, especially when Black Lives Matter protesters are repeatedly met with the National Guard and riot gear.
"A more perfect union begins with denouncing violence in our country. At a time when Nebraskans need leaders who prioritize safety and health, we again see Governor Ricketts fanning the flames of division. He should be calling to end all violent militia plans. Our country and state need safety above all else right now, and we need Governor Ricketts to step up and keep us safe.”
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Planned Parenthood Advocates of Nebraska, formerly PP Voters of Nebraska, is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit organization. As the advocacy and electoral arm of PPNCS, we mobilize supporters of all parties to defend and increase access to family planning services and fact based, medically accurate sexuality education. We work to inspire and engage citizens to take up the cause of reproductive health and rights through education, electoral activity, grassroots organizing and legislative advocacy.
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