The primary goal of our outreach is to inform and activate the pro-choice majority.  However, no matter how pro-choice the crowd is at an event where we are tabling, a street we are canvassing, etc., you may encounter anti-choice individuals.  First, a few tips on how to handle yourself:

Don't waste time talking with anti-choice people, because neither of you will change the other's mind. Instead, just say "thanks for sharing your point of view" and move on to someone else.  Don't ask questions, since that will drag the conversation out.

Don't let other pro-choice activists waste their time arguing with antis. If a member of your group becomes engaged in an argument or heated conversation with an anti-choice individual, calmly and politely intervene, thank the person for their opinions and end the encounter as soon as possible.

Remember that you are representing the pro-choice community and NARAL Pro-Choice Wisconsin. No matter what, be polite, stay calm, and keep your voice low.  The key is to end the interaction as nicely and as soon as possible, not to debate.

There is such as thing as "mixed" choice. Many people will tell you that they are pro-life because they are opposed to abortion.  But many of these individuals support pro-choice goals in sex education, access to contraception, making sure that fake "clinics" are exposed for what they are, etc.  If someone comes to the table, seems interested, but says she opposes abortion, it's OK to spend aminute explaining the range of issues that choice covers and then see what response you get.

Stand up and be safe. In the case that you or members of your organization are targets of threats or intimidation by anti-choice individuals, document and report these incidents to the proper authorities.

If an anti-choice person presses her point, here are some suggestions of things you can say to address the immediate comment.  Ignoring people can make them angry and more vocal, and we maintain our moral authority by staying reasonable and friendly.  Then close the conversation by thinking her for sharing her views and turn to the next person.