ITHACA, N.Y. -- More than 200 cities across the nation held rallies against Planned Parenthood, Saturday and Ithaca was no exception.

"This is a question of equal rights and equal dignity of all human beings from conception to death," said student, Henry Smith.  "If they did not do abortions, we would not be here."

Dozens lined up outside the city's Planned Parenthood facility with signs calling for the program to be stripped of its federal funding and showing support for pro life.

"It's a chance to give a voice to those who don't have a voice. To be a help to those who are helpless and to defend innocent from needless violence and provide solutions for the situations and systems that give rise to that," said Smith.

Protesters say the organization receives more than $420 million from the federal government each year and they'd like to see the money go elsewhere.

"We would like to see our tax dollars redirect to community health centers," said protest organizer, Mary Anne Tissot.

And just a few blocks down, at DeWitt Park, a rally was held in support of Planned Parenthood.

Supporters held up pink signs pushing for women's rights, especially their right to choose.

"Abortion is a difficult topic, but it comes down to, if you don't believe in it or agree with it, you don't have to do it, but if it's something that you think would serve you, I think that it's your right to choose that," said support rally organizer, Jennifer Forte.

They also spoke about the other health programs the organization offers.

"Services they provide are so crucial. It's not just about abortion, although that is an important service they provide. But beyond that it's STD testing, cancer screenings and non judgmental access to care," said Forte.

And they say the program has benefitted the community through generations.

"Not even just women, but men, who go there for STD testing and prostate cancer screenings," said Forte.  "Theres so many reasons why it's an important service for every community to have."

Both groups hoping that standing up for their own individual causes will bring about some kind of change.