Teen Pro-Life Canvasser Attacked In Kansas Before State Voted 'Yes' To Abortion Rights

Washington, Kansas -- Kansas voted 'yes' to abortion rights Tuesday, becoming the first state to do so after Roe v. Wade's overturn. While pro-choice groups are celebrating this major victory, a disturbing incident regarding an alleged clash between a pro-lifer and pro-choice activist has come to light, staining the triumph.

On Sunday, 18-year-old Grace Hartsock, a Students For Life Action volunteer, was canvassing to drive voters to the booths Tuesday in favor of the Kansas Value Them Both Amendment that would allow state legislators to make decisions to regulate abortions. She had knocked on a door and requested the woman who answered to support the amendment.

"No, I'm sorry I don't think you want to talk to us," she responded, SFL reported. Hartsock says she thanked the resident and was about the exit the property when she heard another woman yelling from inside the house. Hartsock said she turned to face the person who she recounts saying, "Don't apologize to her, mom."

This woman, who remains unidentified, is said to have followed Hartsock outside the house while mouthing expletives. She then allegedly struck Hartsock's chest with both hands and head with closed fists. The volunteer tried to protect herself and leave while the alleged attacker's mom intervened to stop the scuffle, according to NYPost.

In a police complaint, Hartsock says she was chased by her attacker who also threw a piece of food at her face. She also endured verbal abuse, stating the curses included phrases such as, "I hope you get raped," and "I hope you get run over by a car."

"What’s a little ironic is that the ballot initiative would allow every Kansan to weigh in on the policy they prefer, but rather than fight for abortion policy, we have some fighting our volunteers," SFLAction President Kristan Hawkins said.

The Value Them Both Coalition issued a statement following the amendment being struck out alleging misinformation and stating they will be back.

“This outcome is a temporary setback, and our dedicated fight to value women and babies is far from over. As our state becomes an abortion destination, it will be even more important for Kansans to support our pregnancy resource centers, post-abortive ministries, and other organizations that provide supportive care to women facing unexpected pregnancies. We will be back,” the statement read.