Woman who punched pro-life activist claims she was goaded into violence
The woman who punched a pro-life reporter in the face during a filmed interview has offered an apology, but also claimed that her actions were provoked. Brianna Rivers, of the Bronx, admitted that she was wrong for hitting Savannah Craven Antao, a reporter for the pro-life advocacy group Live Action.
In a Facebook post, Rivers stated, “To Savannah, I sincerely apologize but cannot sit around and allow you to continue pushing this one-sided narrative. I understand that violence is never the answer, but throwing rocks and hiding hands is worse.” She also accused Craven Antao of intentionally antagonizing her during their interview in Harlem.
Rivers claimed that the footage edited by Craven Antao did not show the moments leading up to the altercation and the relentless antagonization she experienced. She emphasized that she is not someone who resorts to violence for simply disagreeing with someone’s point of view.
Craven Antao, on the other hand, reported the incident to the police and admitted that she had provoked Rivers during the interview. The conversation between the two women grew tense as Craven Antao repeatedly interrupted Rivers and made controversial statements about abortion and Planned Parenthood.
The situation escalated when Craven Antao asked Rivers whether foster kids should be killed if they are unwanted, to which Rivers responded with questions about the care and abuse of children in foster care. The interview ended abruptly when Rivers punched Craven Antao in the face and walked away.
Craven Antao, who is known for posting videos that shame and make fun of progressive women, is now dealing with physical injuries and emotional distress from the incident. She described feeling stressed and terrified every time she sees the video of herself being assaulted.
The altercation between the two women has sparked a debate about journalistic ethics, freedom of speech, and the use of violence to silence opposing views. Both parties have their own perspectives on the incident, but the consequences of their actions have left a lasting impact on both of them.
