By Bud Shaver,
Albuquerque, New Mexico — Any loss of human life is tragic and deeply saddening. The recent fatal shootings of American citizens, including Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis during federal immigration enforcement operations, have sparked widespread protest and concern across Minnesota and in cities nationwide. These events have prompted calls for accountability, investigation, and dialogue regarding the use of force by federal officers and the safety of civilians.
“Tragedy should lead us to humility, accountability, and restraint — not escalation,” said Tara Shaver, spokeswoman for Abortion Free New Mexico. “We can grieve loss of life while still affirming the rule of law and supporting law-enforcement officers who are tasked with protecting the public. For more than a decade, the pro-life movement in New Mexico has shown that peaceful, lawful protest is not only possible — it is essential.”
Abortion Free New Mexico is unapologetically pro-life, which means valuing every human life and the dignity of every person — regardless of the issue or context. Being pro-life includes respect for law and order, support for the men and women who serve as law-enforcement officers, and a steadfast commitment to peaceful, lawful civic engagement.
For more than 15 years, AFNM leaders and volunteers have engaged in peaceful, lawful protest in New Mexico — without violence toward law-enforcement officers or abortion clinic personnel, and without interference with lawful law-enforcement activity. This record demonstrates that principled advocacy and non-violent action can coexist with deep conviction.
(Graphic featuring First Amendment / peaceful protest quote)
“Throughout American history, peaceful protest has meant confronting government through lawful speech and assembly — not force or intimidation. The tradition of peaceful protest is rooted in the First Amendment: engaging government through restraint, lawful dissent, and accountability. The First Amendment protects restraint, not escalation. When force enters the equation, protest loses its moral authority and puts lives at risk.”
— Tara Shaver, Spokeswoman, Abortion Free New Mexico
Abortion Free New Mexico condemns actions that escalate conflict, put lives at risk, or undermine public safety — including resisting arrest, bringing weapons into volatile situations, or obstructing lawful law-enforcement operations. Those seeking change should learn from the pro-life example: peaceful conduct, respect for the law, and accountability — not confrontation.
AFNM stands with communities grieving any senseless loss of life and calls for transparent investigations where legitimate questions remain. We also reaffirm our support for law-enforcement officers who serve to protect public safety under the rule of law. Tragedy and tension surrounding enforcement actions must never be used to justify violence or lawlessness.
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