Championing Reproductive Rights & Abortion Access Since 1966

Pro-Choice Minnesota has been a leading advocate for reproductive rights in the state since its founding in 1966 by activist Betty Benjamin. Established as the Minnesota Abortion Rights Council, the organization has worked tirelessly to advance reproductive freedoms and ensure access to safe abortion care. Originally affiliated with the National Abortion Rights Action League (NARAL), Pro-Choice Minnesota became independent in 2022, reaffirming its commitment to state-level advocacy and grassroots activism. As a non-profit corporation, Pro-Choice Minnesota continues to play a vital role in reproductive health policy and public education.

History of Pro-Choice Minnesota

Pro-Choice Minnesota was founded in 1966 by Betty Benjamin, a dedicated advocate for reproductive rights, in response to restrictive abortion laws that forced many women into unsafe procedures. At the time, abortion was illegal in most of the United States, prompting Benjamin and other activists to organize for legal reform. In 1973, the Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade legalized abortion nationwide, reinforcing the work Pro-Choice Minnesota had done to promote reproductive freedom.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Pro-Choice Minnesota became the state chapter of NARAL, working within the national organization to defend abortion rights and advocate for expanded access to contraception and reproductive health services. Over the years, the organization played a key role in mobilizing Minnesotans against restrictive abortion measures, including mandatory waiting periods and parental notification laws.

In 2022, Pro-Choice Minnesota separated from NARAL, joining several other state affiliates to become independent. This transition allowed Pro-Choice Minnesota to focus more directly on state-specific advocacy efforts and grassroots organizing. Despite this shift, the organization’s core mission remained unchanged: ensuring that everyone has the right to make personal reproductive health decisions without political interference.

Mission and Advocacy Efforts

Pro-Choice Minnesota’s mission is to remove barriers, strengthen protections, and expand access to abortion and reproductive healthcare across the state. To achieve this, the organization operates two separate nonprofit entities:

  • Pro-Choice Minnesota (EIN: 41-1267956) is a 501(c)(4) advocacy organization that engages in lobbying, electoral work, and grassroots activism. It focuses on shaping public policy, supporting pro-choice candidates, and mobilizing voters to protect reproductive rights.

  • Pro-Choice Minnesota Foundation (EIN: 36-3283998) is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to public education, legal advocacy, and community outreach. Through its research and training programs, the Foundation informs the public about reproductive health issues and equips advocates with the tools to promote reproductive justice.

Among its key advocacy initiatives, Pro-Choice Minnesota leads the Reproductive Freedom Action Network (RFAN), a statewide grassroots program that trains volunteers to combat misinformation and promote reproductive rights. The organization also operates a Volunteer Clinic Escort Program, providing support to patients accessing abortion services to ensure their safety and dignity.

Major Milestones and Legislative Impact

Over the decades, Pro-Choice Minnesota has been instrumental in shaping the state's reproductive health policy. Some of its most significant milestones include the following:

  • 1970s: Advocated for abortion rights before Roe v. Wade, helping set the stage for Minnesota’s implementation of legal abortion following the 1973 ruling.

  • 1995: Helped secure the Doe v. Gomez decision, in which the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that the state constitution guarantees the right to abortion and requires Medicaid coverage for low-income individuals seeking abortion care.

  • 2010s: Successfully campaigned for pro-choice candidates, leading to the veto of multiple anti-abortion bills by former Governor Mark Dayton.

  • 2023: Played a key role in passing the Protect Reproductive Options (PRO) Act, which codified abortion rights into Minnesota state law, ensuring legal protection for abortion access regardless of future federal policies.

Community Engagement and Public Support

In addition to its legislative work, Pro-Choice Minnesota has built a robust community of supporters through activism, fundraising, and public education. The organization hosts monthly events for volunteers to learn and engage with reproductive health work. Pro-Choice Minnesota hosts and participates in rallies nationwide to advocate for reproductive health. These gatherings allow community members to take direct action, connect with like-minded advocates, and amplify the movement’s message through collective grassroots efforts.

Get Involved: Support Pro-Choice Minnesota

The success of Pro-Choice Minnesota relies on the dedication of individuals committed to reproductive justice. Supporters can contribute to the cause in several ways:

  • Donate: Financial contributions help sustain advocacy efforts, legal defense, and educational programs. Donations to the 501(c)(3) Foundation are tax-deductible, while those to the 501(c)(4) fund lobbying and political action.

  • Volunteer: Opportunities include becoming a clinic escort, joining local organizing teams, or assisting with community outreach programs.

  • Advocate: Engaging with lawmakers, attending rallies, and spreading awareness about reproductive rights are powerful ways to make a difference.

  • Attend Events: Pro-Choice Minnesota hosts advocacy training, fundraising galas, and policy briefings to keep the community engaged and informed.

For nearly six decades, Pro-Choice Minnesota has stood at the forefront of the reproductive rights movement, fighting for policies that protect and expand access to care. As threats to reproductive freedom persist, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that all Minnesotans have the right to make personal healthcare decisions free from political interference. With ongoing support from the community, Pro-Choice Minnesota will continue to defend and advance reproductive justice for generations to come.