Controversial Billboard To Come Down

NEW YORK - New York City Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn, Council Member Letitia James and Council Member Jessica Lappin issues the following statement regarding  the removal of a controversial anti-abortion billboard in the SoHo section of New York City:

“This afternoon, I spoke with Tricia Frasier, who is pleased that her daughter’s image will no longer be seen on 6th Avenue in this offensive and inflammatory billboard that enraged so many of my constituents. However, Ms. Frasier remains concerned that her daughter’s image could be used again on a billboard anywhere else in America or across the globe. Ms. Frasier, and I, and other Members of the Council, will meet tomorrow to discuss ways to protect her daughter’s image in the future.

“The fact that Lamar Advertising Agency has agreed to remove this billboard does not remove the obligation of anti-abortion forces to respect the wishes a mother who feels her daughter’s image was used inappropriately. In the name of common decency, I call on all anti-abortion groups to pledge never to use this image again.”

Statement by Council Member Letitia James:

"Earlier this afternoon, my office received confirmation from Women of Color Network (NYU) and Lamar Outdoor Advertising that the offensive billboard by Life Always targeting abortion in the black community would be removed today, Thursday, February 24, 2011. I consider the outrage voiced by myself, Public Advocate Bill de Blasio, City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, Planned Parenthood, and numerous advocacy agencies and New Yorkers to have been successful in sending the clear message that Black women and children will not be misrepresented in political efforts to attack reproductive rights."

Statement by Council Member Jessica Lappin:

"Let this be a lesson to those who use drastic, despicable, and racist tactics in our city. Regardless of your beliefs, we will not tolerate that kind of action here in New York."