The Role of a Kansas Town in the National Abortion Debate

The Rev. Anthony Navaratnam, at Flag Church in Pittsburg, Kansas, called for prayers for women from neighboring states who would seek services at the newly opened abortion clinic in the town. The debate over reproductive rights made its way to this college town located near states like Missouri, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. Prior to the overturn of Roe v. Wade in 2022, it was improbable for a town of this size, especially in a historically conservative state, to have an abortion clinic. According to Caitlin Myers, an economics professor, Kansas is now one of the top five states where individuals travel for abortions when they cannot access them in their home states.

In Pittsburg, a new Planned Parenthood clinic has opened in a former urology office, drawing a mix of reactions from the community. As per clinic manager Logan Rink, the community’s response is expected to be varied. The presence of smaller clinics like this one can be less overwhelming for women from rural areas, although the lack of anonymity in tight-knit communities can pose challenges. Despite increasing Republican and religious affiliations in the area, the majority of voters in Crawford County opposed a proposal to ban abortion after Roe was overturned.

The Pittsburg clinic, strategically located near state borders, aims to alleviate the burden on larger cities where abortion services are in high demand. The clinic’s proximity to Texas, Missouri, and Oklahoma has already attracted individuals seeking abortions from these states. Planned Parenthood plans to gradually expand services at the clinic, including gender-affirming care, after they settle in and address opposition from protesters.

The community’s response to the clinic’s opening has been divisive, with donations increasing at the town’s crisis pregnancy center, Vie Medical Clinic. Anti-abortion protesters have vowed to demonstrate regularly outside the clinic, reflecting the broader societal division on the issue. Despite differing opinions in the community, many students at Pittsburg State expressed support for the clinic.

Dr. Emily Walters, a local anesthesiologist and supporter of the clinic, shared her personal motivation behind advocating for abortion rights, stemming from her own traumatic experience during pregnancy. Despite facing backlash and potential risks due to her public support, she remains committed to providing essential healthcare services to women in need. The opening of the clinic in Pittsburg signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over reproductive rights in the region.