Today is the 36th anniversary of the decision of the now famous (infamous?) case, Roe v. Wade. For the first time in 8 years, this date carries with it the promise of a President who is committed to taking real steps toward reducing the need for abortions in this country while at the same time recognizing the importance of safe, legal abortion availability. Banning abortion, making abortion procedures more difficult to obtain, and shaming the millions of women who have abortions every year are all "solutions" that do nothing to address the root problem. My hope on this anniversary is that our new administration takes meaningful steps to reduce the number of unintended pregnancies by:
* improving access to healthcare for all women
* making birth control more affordable
* improving sex education in schools so that it covers not only abstinence, but also contraception (and so that it does not ignore the presence of students who do not fit the heteronormative standard)
* rolling back the Global Gag Rule so that women around the world get accurate information about their full range of reproductive options and can make informed decisions regarding their own health
* repealing the Hyde Amendment!
* getting rid of the ridiculous new HHS "conscience clause"
* increasing funding for programs that help young, poor women become more independent and better mothers (by accessing childcare, education, and mentors)
Take the time today to thank a reproductive healthcare provider, or volunteer your time, or make a donation to your favorite reproductive health organization (even with a pro-choice President, they still need help providing affordable healthcare!). And cross your fingers - maybe some of the above will happen TODAY!
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Ramblings from a law school graduate in Chicago - and occasionally, from Murphy.
3 comments:
As always when it comes to thanking anyone in the area of reproductive healthcare, my first thanks always go to you, AH; always such a strong voice for reproductive justice, and women's rights in general, and always an inspiration to me and I'm sure to many others. And you have always demonstrated this passion, quite often in the face of opposition, sometimes the opposition of your close friends, but your passion never falters, and your calm composure at such times is quite admirable. Dedication to a cause can be a tough path to take, but a very worthy path.
One of my weaknesses, I feel, is that I sometimes stumble towards a strange dedication in my professional life, and I often use your passion as inspiration to stop stumbling, and dedicate myself to my goals. Now, that might seem like the world's worst procrastinator is telling the runner up in the competition that she is an inspiration, but I don't care - you are, and for that (and many other things), I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
And what perfect timing that my PP annual membership renewal form came in the post yesterday. They are smart like that.
Thanks again, AH, you iz the most awesomest ;)
Great post! I'm very grateful to live in a society where I am in control of my fertility and grateful we have a president now who understands the value of women being able to make the best decision for themselves.
"rolling back the Global Gag Rule so that women around the world get accurate information about their full range of reproductive options and can make informed decisions regarding their own health"
It looks like our new president wastes NO time!
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090123/ap_on_go_pr_wh/obama_abortion_ban
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