Texas demonstrations take aim at state’s near-total ban on abortion

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Thousands of demonstrators in Texas cities marched Saturday to decry Texas’ new near-total abortion ban, joining protesters across the nation calling for the protection of abortion rights.

Senate Bill 8, which became law Sept. 1, effectively bans abortions at about six weeks from the patient's last menstrual period — before many know they’re pregnant. The law invites private citizens to sue abortion providers or people who aid someone in getting an abortion.

The law has drawn national headlines and several legal challenges. The U.S. Supreme Court refused a request to block the law, though its constitutionality has yet to be decided.

Here’s a look at some of what Texas Tribune photographers saw Saturday at demonstrations across the state.

First: Protesters stood at the front steps of the Capitol on Saturday in opposition to Senate Bill 8. Last: Dyan Lee and Judy Kajander hold signs as they listen to speakers during the Women's March in Austin. Credit: Michael Gonzalez and Chelsea Purgahn for The Texas Tribune

First: Protesters chanted "my body, my choice" at the Texas Capitol on Saturday. Demonstrators spoke out against Texas' Senate Bill 8, a near-total ban on abortion. Last: Fifi Theriot protests at the Women's March in Austin. Credit: Michael Gonzalez/The Texas Tribune

First: A young participant jumps a with a sign as people gather for the 2021 Women’s March on Texas at Discovery Green in downtown Houston. Last: A participant holds a sign during the 2021 Women’s March on Texas in Houston. Credit: Annie Mulligan for The Texas Tribune

Abortion rights activists marched through downtown Dallas on Saturday. Credit: Carly May for The Texas Tribune