This piece is part of our 2022 Year in Review, a reflection on some of the most urgent issues and causes that mattered most this year that we’ll face in the next – and the tangible ways you can take action.
In June 2022, Roe v. Wade was overturned by the Supreme Court, eliminating the constitutional right to comprehensive reproductive rights (Supreme Court). Now, at least 13 states have banned abortions (Georgia also bans abortion at about six weeks of pregnancy, before many women know they are pregnant). Another 10 states have attempted and failed to pass legislation barring abortions. Now, reproductive rights are at the crux of political campaigning and community organizing. More urgently, protecting access to abortions and other reproductive care wherever possible is up to us.
TAKE ACTION
• Send a message to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services urging them to listen to the consensus of every credible medical association, and protect transgender kids and parental rights.
• Follow and support the Four Thieves Vinegar Collective, Abortion Liberation Fund of Pennsylvania, Buckle Bunnies Fund, and Indigenous Women Rising.
• Support survivor-led organization A Long Walk Home, which empowers young people to end violence against girls and women.
Protecting Reproductive Justice Beyond Elections
It might feel impossible, but there are plenty of ways to provide access to safe abortions outside of political organizing. And it’s been a practice throughout history. Learn more about the importance of community organizing for reproductive care and how you can make a difference.
Bodily Autonomy: The Fallout of Roe v. Wade
Next year, the Supreme Court is likely to reconsider whether or not to protect rights like same-sex marriage and access to contraception, using the same decision-making process they used to reverse Roe v. Wade. Learn more about how that decision came to be and how interconnected the fight for reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ rights are in our country.
The Roots of Sexual Violence as a Tool for Oppression
Reproductive rights are at the center of bodily autonomy. But in order to protect reproductive rights, we must address how sexual violence is wielded as a tool of oppression and dismantle the culture that believes that women and nonbinary bodies don’t belong to them.
The Criminalization of Abortion Has Always Penalized Marginalized People
The attack on reproductive rights has wide-reaching consequences. But people of color and other marginalized pregnant people are most impacted. Right now, organizations caring for these communities on the frontlines need our support. Read about the history of abortion inequity and how you can fight to support those most vulnerable near you.
The Enduring Stigma Around Abortion
One of our readers shared their heartbreaking story of abortion and the abortion stigma perpetuated in our society. Read their story and consider: what has shaped your perception of abortion? How does your personal opinion relate to the work of fighting for comprehensive reproductive rights for all people?
