This post in the #youcanbehere series is trying to bridge the gap between two very polarized groups. This is a highly complex and deeply emotional topic. Tread in the comments with care.
In the wake of the potential Roe vs. wade overturn, the conversation around abortion rights has brought out intense discussion. What do I want to use my voice to emphasize?
Let’s start here: “Pro-choice” advocates would love to see abortion rates go down too. Yes, reread that. We should all want fewer abortions.
I believe that it is critical for conversation to be prioritized around policies and change directed at reducing life-threatening or unplanned pregnancies from happening in the first place. I’d like to see a world where we put more effort into preventing cases that could result in abortion than effort into just banning the abortion itself. If you want to see abortion rates decline (everyone raise your hand), here is a (non-comprehensive) list of places you can direct your energy.
▪️easily accessible birth control
▪️comprehensive sex education
▪️organizations against domestic violence
▪️speaking out against rape culture
▪️male accountability in pregnancy
▪️paid family leave
▪️affordable childcare
▪️accessible healthcare
▪️education and advocacy for adoption
Finally, and not discussed in detail in this post, the spectrum of reasons for an abortion and the medical implications of abortion bans are also not black and white. I think it’s important that the mother be given all the opportunity and information necessary to weigh the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual risks of each pregnancy.
So if you needed someone to tell you: you can absolutely want to see fewer abortions AND be pro-choice. They are not mutually exclusive.