Lighting the Way: March 8, 2024
What a week! With so much happening in the world of repro,
let's dive in and catch up on all the latest updates shaping the fight for reproductive freedom.
HONORING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
Today, as we celebrate International Women's Day, we do so with a deep sense of gratitude and optimism. We're not just marking a date on the calendar; we're commemorating a legacy of resilience, resistance, and collective action. We're honoring the countless individuals who have fought tirelessly for the rights we hold dear and rededicating ourselves to the work that lies ahead.
You know, there's been a lot of talk lately about joining the movement, not just the moment.
So, why does joining the movement matter? Well, because our work doesn't stop when the celebrations end. It's an ongoing effort, a commitment to fighting for a future where everyone has the freedom to make their own choices about their bodies and their lives.
By coming together, we make waves. We amplify our voices, stand up for choice, and create lasting change in our communities. And that's something worth celebrating - not just today, but every day. Thank YOU for your role in our movement.
READ(S) OF THE WEEK: BIG WINS FOR ACCESSIBILITY
The New York Times: CVS and Walgreens Will Begin Selling Abortion Pills This Month
President Biden said in a statement on Friday that the availability of the pill at pharmacies was “an important milestone in ensuring access to mifepristone, a drug that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as safe and effective for more than 20 years.”
NPR: First over-the-counter birth control pill heads to stores
Opill, the first oral contraceptive pill to be available without a prescription in the U.S., has shipped to retailers nationwide. It will be sold online and in the family planning aisle of drugstores, convenience stores and supermarkets later this month.
CELEBRATING OUR LOCAL HEROES
Each year on March 10th we take a step back, taking the politics out of our health care to appreciate the courageous folks on the front lines who provide abortion care. It's a day of remembrance for the murder of Dr. David Gunn - an abortion provider whose life was taken by a white supremacist, anti-abortion extremist.
Our providers show up every single day to provide us health care in the face of political opposition, protestors at their doors, and yes, at times, very real threats of harm.
This Abortion Provider Appreciation Day, send a message of gratitude to Minnesota's abortion care providers and Pro-Choice Minnesota Volunteer Clinic Escorts - the friendly faces and barriers between patients and protesters - by clicking the button below.
SUPPORT INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR ABORTION CARE
Contact your legislators in support of HF 4053 and SF 3967, which would require insurance plans regulated by the state to include abortion coverage.
In Minnesota, we have a chance to stand up for pregnant folks' health by making sure insurance covers abortion services in both public and private plans. Abortion is a crucial part of healthcare, and everyone should have fair access to it, no matter their income, background, or zip code.
PRO-CHOICE MINNESOTA CAMPUS ORGANIZER HIGHLIGHT
St. Olaf College campus organizers show their dedication as they rally for repro rights during Reproductive Freedom Lobby Day at the Minnesota State Capitol.
March 7, 2024
Via Instagram @prochoicemn:
What a fabulous day to raise our collective voice for choice alongside so many Minnesotans and community partners! We had an absolute blast at Reproductive Freedom Lobby Day 2024 hosted by our besties @unrestrictmn
UPCOMING PARTNER EVENTS
Planned Parenthood Action Fund x Queer Space Collective:
Creating LGBTQ+ Welcoming Spaces
Tuesday, March 19
Planned Parenthood Action Fund x Queer Space Collective:
Understanding and Overcoming Implicit Bias
Tuesday, April 2
THE STATE OF ABORTION
Guttmacher Institute:
The map reflects state policies in effect as of January 24, 2024.
@ YOUR LEGISLATORS: #ChooseChoice
Tweet @ your legislators via X now in support of the advancement of reproductive freedom in 2024.
40 DAYS FOR CHOICE
Thank you for supporting our work to protect and expand abortion access for all Minnesotans,
we could not do this work without you.
JOY SNACK OF THE DAY
Want to feel happier? Try snacking on joy.
NPR: How to find joy in activism
"An important part of activism is finding ways to keep your passion ignited while avoiding burnout from the process. That's not always easy.
"Let's face it, we don't get into activism because things are great. We're usually angry or upset or sad about something," says Walrond, "So how do you tend to that soul fire? When is it time to take a break and let somebody else take the reins for a little bit?"
The first thing to remember is that rest and joy are integral parts of the process. Just as the seasons ebb and flow, so too should your activism work. Be intentional about making room for joy.
"Joy is how we gather the energy to go back in, to do the work. Joy is how we remind ourselves what we're fighting for," says Walrond."
Join us on Friday, March 8th, for our Class Reunion, a place to connect, celebrate, and get ready for the fight in 2024.
For more than five decades, Pro-Choice Minnesota has advocated for reproductive rights and played a crucial role in shaping Minnesota's history. This event is our moment to honor our impactful journey, celebrate victories, and forge ahead toward our vital mission. Meet longtime advocates and fresh faces, share in the community's spirit, and revel in drinks, snacks, music, and engaging activities. This year, our celebration is one you will not want to miss!
Friday, March 8, 2024 at 7:00 PM
LUSH Lounge & Theater, 990 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Street Parking Available