Day 19: Domestic Violence & Reproductive Rights

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Lawmakers across the country have been rapidly working to create more abortion restrictions or update current restrictions. Abortion is an essential part of healthcare. Forced pregnancy is a form of coercive control that impacts many survivors of domestic violence. Having bodily autonomy means having the right to make the best reproductive choices for ourselves and our families.

Abusive partners often attempt to control their partners’ reproductive choices, which can occur through manipulation of birth control/contraceptives, physical violence, or a threat of violence.

State laws to restrict access to abortion have a disproportionate impact on women with lower incomes, particularly women of color, who may not have travel resources to access reproductive care. The demographics and makeup of legislators with the power to implement these bans rarely reflect their constituents’ demographics who are truly impacted by their decisions.

Today, we explore the links between domestic violence and abortion restrictions.

IF YOU HAVE…

5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes	and	15 Minutes
	and		and
READ THIS ARTICLE that explores the often hidden links between domestic violence and abortion.	and	WATCH THIS VIDEO to get a glimpse of what it is like right now for individuals in Texas seeking abortion care.	and	READ THIS ARTICLE on how abortion access can save women (more pregnant women die by homicide than pregnancy-related causes).

REFLECT

Take a moment to reflect today’s challenge and any insights you experienced.

• How did this challenge make you feel?
• What did you learn?
• What did you notice about yourself after taking the challenge?
• Consider sharing this new awareness with a friend or group to help deepen your understanding of the information.
• Continue the conversation online and connect with others by joining our Racial & Social Justice Facebook group.

Let us know why this challenge is important to you by leaving your comment here.

Thank you for joining us in our Stand Against Racism Challenge. Our work continues every weekday from May 2 – May 30. Each day you’ll be offered some content to help you take a deeper dive into the daily topic.

We ask that you undertake this challenge with an open mind and willingness to explore new ideas and allow yourself to sit with any emotions that may come up for you.

This content may be hard to process so consider having a self-care plan in place beforehand. This can include meditation before or after engaging, watching your favorite show, or doing something creative.

We look forward to going on this journey towards true equity and justice with you!

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