Mississippi abortion clinic plans to move to New Mexico

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico’s current abortion laws are now attracting the Mississippi clinic at the center of the Supreme Court’s decision on Roe v. Wade Friday.

Last month, Mississippi’s only abortion clinic announced it would consider moving to New Mexico if the Supreme Court overturned the ruling. Now, that consideration is a reality.

“We’re not laying down, we’re not giving up,” said Diane Derzis, owner of the the Jackson Women’s Health Organization, known as the Pink House. “Women have always had abortions no matter what it took, even if it was their life, and we’re gonna make sure that’s not on the line here.”

Her clinic went to the court to challenge the Mississippi abortion ban.

Following the decision, the clinic has confirmed to KOB 4 that it is moving operations to a new building in Las Cruces as early as next week.

Executive Director Shannon Brewer appeared virtually at a news conference Friday in Mississippi – from the new location in New Mexico.

“We have been preparing but nothing can really prepare you for the actual day that it comes down,” Brewer said.

Brewer told NBC News last month the the ruling will affect women who need care the most – not women who have the financial means to travel to get an abortion anywhere.

“Gun control is out of hand and this is what you’re focusing on, women?” she said. “Taking over women and controlling their body? You’re never gonna make that right for me.”

Brewer might be moving her fight – but said stopping the fight is not an option.

“I will continue to fight for women wherever I am. Wherever I’m gonna be. I’m going to continue to do this because I know this is what I was meant to do.”