Dozens clash over abortion rights at uptown Charlotte park

CHARLOTTE — Dozens of people gathered Sunday in support of and against abortion rights in uptown Charlotte.

The event, organized by the Black Abortion Defense League, was held in First Ward Park. Channel 9 reporter Glenn Counts spoke with protesters about what brought them out to the demonstration.

“Well, I’m here for my daughter. I’m here to stand for her rights. I’m here because I believe that women’s rights are human rights,” abortion rights advocate Ria Kozoman said.

Former pastor and abortion opponent Flip Benham led a group that counteracted that sentiment, causing verbal clashes between the two groups.

ALSO READ: Cooper signs executive order to protect abortion providers, patients who travel from other states

“North Carolina has, for some reason, has decided to stick its middle finger right in the eye of Almighty God,” Benham said.

Both sides agreed on the importance of the next election and its impact on abortion rights in North Carolina.

“We could be a voting bloc and take out people that aren’t going to work for our benefit,” Tina Marshall, founder of the Black Abortion Defense League.

Benham told Counts that, even though the Supreme Court ruled in their favor, it is not a time to rest on their laurels. Benham said he and his demonstrators want abortion banned in North Carolina and across the nation.

(WATCH BELOW: Cooper signs executive order to protect abortion providers, patients who travel from other states)