Dr. George Tiller vigil tonight at Cal Anderson

Word comes via Twitter of a gathering at Cal Anderson tonight to mark the death of George Tiller. The 67-year-old Kansas abortion doctor was gunned down Sunday. His clinic was one of only three in the country that performed abortions after the 21st week of pregnancy.

Organizers are asking attendees to bring lighters to help light candles at the 6 PM vigil. Here is a statement about the event from NARAL (National Association for the Repeal of Abortion Laws) Washington:

Please join NARAL Pro-Choice Washington, allied pro-choice organizations, and your fellow pro-choice community members for:

A Vigil to Remember and Honor Dr. George Tiller

Today, June 1, 6:00PM

Cal Anderson Park - South End of the Reflecting Pool

1635 11th Ave, Seattle

Please bring a lighter to help light candles

Dr. Tiller provided abortion care to women in Kansas, and his clinic is one of the few in the country that provide late-term abortions. Because of his commitment to women's health, Dr. Tiller suffered constant threats, serious injuries, malicious protesters, vandalism to his clinic, and relentless political and legal attacks. Through it all, he was a tireless advocate for his patients and for women's rights. He was shot and killed at his church Sunday morning.

Our hearts go out to Dr. Tiller's family. We want everyone who provides reproductive health care to know that they have our support in the aftermath of this heartbreaking tragedy. Health care providers, and the women who receive their services, should never be the targets of violence.