Demonstrators Stage San Rafael, Calif., Protest Against Circumcision

About a dozen demonstrators protested Monday outside the Bay Area chapter office of the American Academy of Pediatrics after AAP announced an updated policy on newborn male circumcision. The new policy leaves the circumcision decision up to parents, but notes that medical benefits -- including reduced risk of some STDs and HIV -- are greater than risks. Members of the Bay Area Intactivists picketed outside the office from noon to about 1 p.m., and several members dropped by the chapter executive director's office to present an "award of shame." "I don't think they should accost me in my own office," said Beverly Busher, who called San Rafael police. Lloyd Chofield, who was among the delegation, said they knocked before entering and were then invited inside. Police cautioned demonstrators to limit their activities to the sidewalk. Participants of the picket criticize the idea that parents should have a right to circumcise their male children, and suggest that evidence cited for the procedure's benefits is exaggerated.

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