The controversy over the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services contraceptives mandate is picking up steam again.

Rallies will be held numerous U.S. cities, including Atlanta and Athens, on Friday to protest the mandate, which will require most employers to  provide FDA-approved contraceptives  insurance coverage for workers without a co-pay or deductible. Churches are exempt. However, women who are employed by  religiously-affiliated organizations such as universities, hospitals and charities, could obtain coverage directly from their insurance company.

The Georgia rallies will be held at noon at the state Capitol in Atlanta and at the R.G. Stephens Jr. Federal Building, 355 Hancock Ave. in Athens. The theme is "Stand Up for Religious Freedom-Stop the HHS Mandate!"

Many Catholics are upset with the mandate, which they claim violates their religious freedom.

Speakers for the Atlanta rally include Atlanta Auxiliary Bishop Luis R. Zarama; Atty. Mia Reini; and activist Catherine Davis.

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Atlanta art and antiques appraiser and auctioneer Allan Baitcher (right) takes bids during a 2020 auction. Baitcher and his company, Peachtree Antiques, are being sued by a Florida multimillionaire who says he paid them $20 million for fakes. (AJC 2020)

Credit: Phil Skinner / Staff