PITTSBURG, Kan. — A newly established abortion clinic has reignited the conversation on reproductive rights in the small college town of Pittsburg, Kansas, a rare state in the region still permitting abortions.
Prior to the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022, the conservative, Republican-leaning semi-rural area of Pittsburg would have been an unlikely site for such a facility, but shifts in attitudes are becoming evident nationwide.
Data indicates that Kansas has emerged as a primary destination for individuals seeking abortions from neighboring states where the procedure is restricted. Research shows a remarkable 152% increase in abortions within the state following the Roe decision, underscoring Kansas’s significance as a safe haven for reproductive healthcare during this contentious period.
According to local experts, the influx of clinics opening in smaller communities is noteworthy. Recent statistics reveal that several of these clinics are located in towns with populations below 25,000, addressing the accessibility needs of women from rural areas.
The community faced a pivotal moment just weeks after Roe was overturned when voters were asked to decide on a proposal that aimed to eliminate abortion rights from the state constitution. In Crawford County, home to Pittsburg, a majority of voters opposed this amendment, despite surrounding rural counties leaning toward its approval.
Statewide, opinion polls reflect a strong sentiment toward supporting legal access to abortion, with a significant percentage of Americans advocating for reproductive rights regardless of circumstances.
The new clinic, operated by a reputable health organization, is conveniently situated near the Missouri border and is less than an hour’s drive from Oklahoma. While Kansas has other clinics situated in larger metropolitan areas, demand often exceeds capacity, creating challenges for many seeking appointments. Reports indicate that around two-thirds of those reaching out for services are unable to secure appointments due to high demand.
A substantial proportion of individuals seeking abortions in Kansas come from out of state, with many traveling long distances from Texas and beyond. Experts note that smaller clinics can offer a more comforting environment for women traveling from rural areas, although concerns about privacy remain prevalent in closely-knit communities.
Pittsburg, home to approximately 7,400 university students, is increasingly conservative and religious. Students and many local Democrats have expressed support for the new clinic, reflecting a diverse range of opinions on reproductive rights in the community.
However, local religious organizations are preparing to protest the clinic’s operations, and associated crisis centers have observed a rise in community support and donations.
