Video shows Pa. lawmaker confronting woman outside Philly Planned Parenthood facility

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A Pennsylvania state lawmaker is getting attention for his confrontation with a woman outside a Planned Parenthood facility in Center City.

Representative Brian Sims of Philadelphia recorded the 8-minute long video himself Monday.

In it, he criticizes a woman with the pro-life organization Sidewalk Servants, who he says is shaming women going into the clinic.

The Democrat admitted the woman had a constitutional right to demonstrate, but also said in the video, "an old white lady telling people what's right to do with their bodies, shame on you."

In a statement released Tuesday, Planned Parenthood Southeastern Philadelphia Pres & CEO Dayle Steinberg says in part: "While we do not condone Representative Sims' approach, our patients deserve to have access to health care without shame and stigma..."

Action News also received a statement from the woman in the video, saying, "I forgive him and I am praying for him, please do the same."

The woman's statement were released along with reaction from Doctor Monique Ruberu who runs Sidewalk Servants. Ruberu said, "This poor woman who wanted to do nothing but stand, pray and hand out blessing bags was verbally assaulted and badgered by a state rep. for 9 minutes non stop. This man is obviously hurting and we pray that he finds peace and has a conversion of heart so he no longer feels the need to abuse those who hold differing beliefs."

Action News attempted to obtain a comment from Representative Sims directly and through social media but we have not yet received a response.