rePROs Fight Back
rePROs Fight Back, a multi-award winning podcast, does-dives into reproductive health, rights, and justice issues like abortion, birth control, sex education, women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, gender equity, and more. New episodes debut every Tuesday, giving you an insider’s perspective on what is happening and what you can do to fight back.
Tue, April 15, 2025
What Are the On-The-Ground Impacts of the Cuts to Foreign Assistance?
Within hours of the new administration’s return-to-office, disorder took over. A foreign aid freeze, a stop-work order, and the dismantling of key foreign aid institutions commenced almost immediately. Gayatri Patel , Senior Fellow with rePROs Fight Back, sits down to talk with us about glimmers of hope for protecting this foreign assistance funding and relevant agencies, as well as how we can prepare for the realistic, long-term impacts of these attacks. The assault on foreign assistance funding by the new administration—which includes the blocking of U.S. foreign assistance funding, including for development programs, humanitarian programs, and multilateral assistance—has led to the loss of food services, antiviral medications, and vaccines, among other things. This has resulted in severe harm and death. In addition, the dismantling of institutions, including the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the loss of funding and support for multiple UN agencies, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), will result in continued, long-term impacts on both U.S. and international programming. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 08, 2025
BMHW25 – Black Maternal Health, Medicaid Cuts, and Community-Based Care
April 11th- 17th officially marks Black Maternal Health Week—a week-long campaign centered on activism, awareness, and community-building for Black mamas and Black birthing people. Elizabeth Dawes , Director of Maternal and Reproductive Health and Senior Fellow at the Century Foundation and Co-Founder of the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, sits down to talk with us about the status of the Black maternal health crisis in the U.S. and the myriad, ongoing attacks to the Black community’s health, rights, and wellbeing from the new administration. The U.S. maternal mortality crisis has seen an overall reduction in maternal death rates in every racial group except for Black birthing people-- due to racism and inequity at institutional, systemic, and interpersonal levels. This is despite continuous, targeted, and hard-fought advocacy since 2014. Solidifying key actors, distributing resources and funding, and amplifying direct, local care and Black-led initiatives can make a sizeable change and help tackle the persistent, systemic oppressions and health injustices disproportionately felt by Black individuals. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 01, 2025
The SCOTUS Case Threatening Medicaid Recipient’s Ability to Choose Their SRH Provider
A new case with tremendous possible consequences for U.S. sexual and reproductive health and rights has made its way onto the Supreme Court docket. Medina v. Planned Parenthood of South Atlantic is a culmination of decades of anti-choice activist’s attacks to Planned Parenthood and other reproductive health care providers, specifically targeting efforts to kick these providers out of Medicaid. Jessica Mason Pieklo , Senior Vice President and Executive Editor of Rewire News Group and co-host of Boom! Lawyered, sits down to talk with us about the implications of this case for the country’s most vulnerable. The question in front of the Supreme Court is whether the Medicaid statute confers a right to its recipients to go to providers of their choosing. Not only does this open doors to re-defining “qualified” and “unqualified” reproductive health care providers, it allows an opportunity for legal conservatives on the court to meander around Congressional conferring of rights via statute. Oftentimes, Planned Parenthood affiliates are the only option for low-income, Medicaid patients. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Thu, March 27, 2025
You May Also Like: Sex Ed with DB
This week, we’re bringing you a special feed drop from Rom Com Vom, a miniseries from Sex Ed with DB that unpacks beloved rom-coms, strips away their hidden toxic messages, and rewrites the script on love and sex. In this clip, host Danielle Bezalel sits down with Dr. Gretchen Sisson, a sociologist and expert on adoption and abortion, to break down Juno’s portrayal of teen pregnancy, adoption, and reproductive rights. They discuss what the film gets right, what it glosses over, and why its cultural impact still lingers today. If you enjoy this conversation, check out the full episode —plus more deep dives into rom-com tropes—by finding Sex Ed with DB wherever you get your podcasts. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 25, 2025
rePROs’ 50-State Report Card: The Looming Storm and How the New Administration is Primed to Make the Human Rights Crisis Worse
rePROs Fight Back released its 13th annual 50-State Report Card on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights. The United States, overall, received an ‘F’ grade, while 5 states received an ‘A’ and 25 states failed. Jennie Wetter , Director of the rePROs Fight Back initiative and host of the rePROs Fight Back podcast, sits down to discuss this staggering loss of rights and the continuous fight for our right to bodily autonomy with Tarah Demant , Interim National Director of Programs, Advocacy, and Government Affairs at Amnesty International USA. While 2024 had some bright spots, including abortion-related ballot measures passing in 7 of the 10 states where they were on the ballot, we are still experiencing the fallout of the 2022 Dobbs decision. The human rights crisis unleashed by that decision has led states to continue restricting abortion access and has emboldened anti-rights advocates to increase their attacks on gender-affirming care. Using 11 criteria, the 50-State Report Card ranks each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia on three broad indicators relating to reproductive health and rights: prevention, affordability, and access to services. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 18, 2025
Checking in on EMTALA: The Status of Nationwide Emergency Abortion Access
The Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) is a landmark federal law that revolutionized the right to emergency healthcare and provides crucial protections for pregnant people. Alexa Kolbi-Molinas , Deputy Director at the ACLU’s Reproductive Freedom Project, sits down to talk with us about the status of the case and what we can continue to do to protect emergency abortion services. When EMTALA was originally passed by Congress in 1986, the law directed every hospital in the country with an emergency department to provide whatever healthcare was necessary to any individual who visited the hospital presenting with an emergency medical condition. This is especially important for pregnant people, who require intensive attention in and outside of emergency situations. For the nearly 40 years EMTALA has been in effect, it was understood across party lines that if someone needs emergency abortion care, EMTALA protects that access. But following the overturning of Roe v. Wade , Idaho’s extreme abortion ban did not feature an exception for those in emergencies. The Department of Justice sued Idaho to ensure EMTALA’s nationwide reach and the case advanced to the Supreme Court. The lawsuit against Idaho has now been dismissed under the new administration. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 11, 2025
Proposed Cuts to Medicaid Could Mean Proposed Cuts to Sexual and Reproductive Health
Medicaid, the United States’ largest public health insurance program, currently insures over 72 million people with low incomes. Medicaid covers a host of health needs, including those related to sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Madeline Morcelle , Senior Attorney at the National Health Law Program (NHeLP) and co-chair of the National Coalition for Gender Justice in Health Policy, sits down to talk with us about how Medicaid is indispensable for SRH coverage and how recent proposed cuts would impact those who are enrolled. Medicaid plays an essential role in securing SRH for those with low incomes and other underserved communities, including Black, indigenous, and other people of color, people with disabilities, women and LGBTQI+ people, young people, and people with limited English proficiency. States are required to cover family planning services and supplies, pregnancy-related care, and abortion within the Hyde Amendment’s exceptions. The House recently passed a budget resolution that requires at least a minimum of $880 billion in budgetary cuts from the Energy and Commerce Committee—who’s vast majority of financial jurisdiction is centered in Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Assuredly, proposed cuts would cause states to limit eligibility for Medicaid insurance and impact million’s access to SRH care. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 04, 2025
Wendy Davis on the Abortion Landscape in Texas and Her Famous Filibuster
A complete lack of abortion access and a climate of fear amongst patients and providers has descended over Texas in the past few years. Wendy Davis , former Texas state senator and Senior Advisor for Planned Parenthood Texas Votes, sits down to talk with us about the current landscape for abortion access in Texas and her famous 2013 filibuster. Texas currently has a complete ban on abortion with extremely limited exceptions. Only a few years prior, in 2021, Texas passed SB 8, which banned abortion at six weeks of pregnancy and allowed virtually any private citizen the ability to sue someone who accessed or attempted to access an abortion. Recent ProPublica research has found data on increased poor health outcomes and death due to the impacts of the present abortion ban. The Texas legislature has denied the data to be reviewed by the state’s Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 25, 2025
A Policy Agenda for Achieving Reproductive Justice
Reproductive justice is the human right to control our bodies, our sexuality, our gender, our work, and our reproduction. This right can only be achieved when everyone, especially those most marginalized, have the complete economic, social, and political power and resources to make healthy decisions about their bodies, families and communities. Bridgette Jackson , Director of Public Policy at In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, Kat Olivera , Director of Government Relations at the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice (NLIRJ), and Fajer Saeed Ebrahim , Senior Policy Manager at the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF), sit down to talk with us about the reproductive justice policy agenda. NAPAWF, NLIRJ, and In Our Own Voice lead the Intersections of Our Lives Collaborative, which developed the comprehensive policy framework for achieving reproductive justice. The agenda is structured around three key pillars: healthy body, healthy families and communities, and healthy democracy. The policies included are focused on accessible sex education, abortion and contraception equity, gender-affirming care, and resistance to the criminalization of bodies. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 18, 2025
The Trump Administration’s Dismantling of USAID
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which was previously the largest bilateral donor across the world, was created in 1961 to use the U.S.’s soft power to influence and assist other countries. It has since grown into a department with more than 13,000 employees, the majority of which have worked overseas to provide emergency and humanitarian response, food assistance, economic growth activities, and more. Elissa Miolene , reporter at Devex, sits down to talk with us about the impact of the past few week’s chaotic attacks to USAID. Within hours of President Trump returning to office, there was a foreign aid freeze, followed by a stop-work order. Disorder took over, with a Congressional communication that USAID would be downsized, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announcing he would take over USAID, and waves of furloughs and layoffs at the agency and with partners that USAID works with. The deterioration of USAID has, of course, resulted in people in countries around the world being unable to access dependable care and resources. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 11, 2025
The Drove of Executive Orders Attacking Trans Health and Rights
The first day of President Trump’s administration, the outright attacks on the transgender community began. A drove of extreme executive orders has ruthlessly targeted transgender individuals’ safety and wellbeing. Chris Geidner, author of Law Dork, sits down to talk with us about these heinous assaults, their already-felt impacts on transgender individuals, and what to expect in the near future. The Trump administration’s collection of executive orders includes those that place rigid definitions on the term “sex” and force transgender women in prison to be housed in men’s facilities, ban transgender women from competing in women’s sports, declare transgender individuals unfit for military service, and prevent transgender children from accessing gender-affirming care. Multiple lawsuits have already arisen that challenge the initial executive order, which largely erases and others the transgender community. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 04, 2025
Four Days In, Trump Reinstated the Global Gag Rule
The global gag rule, which prevents non-governmental organizations who receive U.S. global health funding from providing, counseling on, referring for, or advocating for abortion in their own country and using their own, private resources, has been reinstated by President Trump. Lori Adelman , Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Global, and Caitlin Horrigan , Senior Director of Global Advocacy at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, sits down to talk with us about what the expanded global gag rule is, what it means for health practitioners and patients abroad, and how it can be repealed. When the global gag rule is in place, there is a deep disrupting in health service delivery, bolstering an anti-human rights agenda globally, undermining trust in medical providers, and weakening civil society allies. Communities have less access to centralized, essential care, which can force people to turn to unsafe methods of abortion. Thankfully, there are policy solutions. The Global Health, Empowerment, and Rights Act (Global HER Act), which was reintroduced this week, would take away presidential power to reinstate the global gag rule. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 28, 2025
The Helms Amendment Hurts Millions Worldwide
The Helms Amendment stipulates that “no foreign assistance funds may be used to pay for the performance of abortion as a method of family planning” abroad and has been in effect since 1973. But the amendment is often overinterpreted as a complete and total ban on U.S. funding for abortion care, even in the most extreme cases and in countries where abortion is legal. Rachel Marchand , Public Policy Manager with rePROs Fight Back, sits down to talk with us about the direct harm of Helms and why it’s far past time the amendment is repealed. The Helms amendment ignores the well-established foundation of reproductive rights as human rights and limits the accessibility of safe and timely abortion care for those that are subject to U.S. foreign assistance. Subsequent harm—including unsafe abortion and maternal mortality, among others—is disproportionately felt by Black and brown communities, young people, people experiencing poverty, LGBTQI+ individuals, and those in humanitarian and conflict settings. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 21, 2025
A 360° Look at Reproductive Justice
2024 marked the 30th anniversary of a host of significant moments for sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice. Dázon Dixon Diallo , Founder and President of SisterLove, Inc. and SisterLove International South Africa, sits down to talk with us about this momentous occasion, the timeline of reproductive justice, and a hopeful look into the future. In 1994, an array of geopolitical events set the context for women’s leadership and representation. 1994 was also the year that a group of Black women in Chicago defined the concept of reproductive justice, the year that the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was passed, and the year that the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) was held in Cairo, Egypt, where 180 countries agreed upon the definition of sexual and reproductive health and rights. We can achieve similar progress 30 years from now, as long as the real implications of lack of abortion access and holistic access to sexual and reproductive health care and information continue to be understood. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 14, 2025
Blessings at the Abortion Clinic: Bridging Faith and Repro
All faith traditions have diverse opinions and practices on reproductive health, rights, and justice. In fact, the majority of people of faith in the U.S. support access to abortion care. Rev. Katey Zeh , ordained Baptist minister and CEO for the Religious Community for Reproductive Choice (RCRC), sits down to talk with us about the organization’s recent blessings and spiritual support provided at abortion clinics. The movement and infrastructure of Christian nationalism coopts Christian language for a political agenda, including one which is anti-abortion; still, individuals in faith groups aren’t a monolith. RCRC visited the Women’s Health Center of West Virginia, which had lost its ability to provide abortion care post- Dobbs . The clinic went just over the border and purchased some medical office space to open the Women’s Health Center of Maryland, where abortion care could be provided. RCRC brought the West Virginia staff to Maryland and performed the blessing on the Maryland clinic. The New York Times shared a story on this blessing in December, 2024. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 07, 2025
Looking Back and Ahead: Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in 2024 and 2025
Sexual and reproductive health faced unrelenting attacks this year, and the assault will likely only increase in 2025 under the Trump administration. Susan Rinkunas with the Cut, Jezebel, and Vice, and an independent journalist covering abortion and politics, sits down to look back with us on sexual and reproductive health and rights in 2024 and what we can expect in the coming year. 2024 was marked by the attempted redefinition of abortion bans by incoming President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, extremists using the exact same playbook to attack both abortion and transgender health and rights, the Alabama Supreme Court case that declared frozen embryos as people, and a host of abortion ballot measures around the country. 2025 is likely to bring a Supreme Court justice retirement, loosening abortion clinic buffer zones, a goal to defund Planned Parenthood, and continued attacks to gender-affirming care and birth control. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 17, 2024
Human Rights are Indivisible and Under Attack
Human rights are born out of the belief that every individual is equal and deserving of life, dignity, respect, and freedom. States must then deliver on those obligations. But through nominations, harmful policy, and mass confusion, the returning administration has a broad ability to dissolve human rights. Rori Kramer , Director of U.S. Advocacy at the American Jewish World Service, sits down to talk with us about the foundations of human rights and what we can expect from the coming administration. Human rights were codified via the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, with the U.S. as an early champion. When these rights were established, they were indivisible and applied to all humans equally. At present, in some countries, authoritarian governments seek to criminalize democracy and the exercise of human rights. Some of these states are feeling empowered by the U.S. and its direction-- especially as the U.S. plays in outsized role in international human rights standards. In the first Trump administration, the Geneva Consensus Declaration and Commission on Unalienable Rights were used to shift and mold the framework of what human rights really are; those may return. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 10, 2024
The Prospect of Global Human Rights Under the Trump Administration
The incoming Trump administration won’t just devastate sexual and reproductive health in the United States—the harm will absolutely ripple abroad. Rachel Clement , Senior Director of Government Strategy at PAI, sits down to talk with us about the prospect of global human rights under the incoming administration and potential harmful policy to come. Already, less than 1% of the U.S. budget goes to foreign assistance. And, under the Trump administration, it’s incredibly likely that UNFPA will be defunded, in tandem with cutting funding in other UN spaces like the WHO, UNESCO, and UN Women. During the last Trump administration, the Geneva Consensus Declaration was created to undermine the United Nations and multilateralism in general, while the Commission on Unalienable Rights, out of the State Department, sought to re-define human rights; these tools and others like them might reemerge. In all, attacks to gender and sexual and reproductive health and rights around the world will be enormous, especially with the probable reintroduction of the expanded Global Gag Rule . You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 03, 2024
United States v. Skrmetti and the Future of Trans Rights
A new Supreme Court case, United States v. Skrmetti, will challenge Tennessee’s Senate Bill 1, which prohibits gender-affirming care for transgender minors. Katelyn Burns , columnist for MSNBC, first ever openly trans Capitol Hill Reporter, co-host of the podcast Cancel Me Daddy, and co-founder of the publication the Flytrap, sits down to talk with us about this case and what realities the trans community will face under the new administration. Tennessee’s law would ban best practice medical care for trans youth up to 18, require youth being treated to cease care within nine months of the law’s effect, and allow for private right of action against medical providers providing gender-affirming care. This specific case is aimed toward transgender minors but will be used as an entry point to target adult care, too. This is on top of extremely likely increases to attacks to transgender folks’ health and rights under the incoming Trump administration, bolstered already by harmful cabinet nominees. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 26, 2024
The Election’s Devastating Impact on Reproductive Health and Rights
The November election will undoubtedly send sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice (SRHRJ) spiraling. Erin Matson , Co-Founder, President, and CEO of Reproaction, sits down to talk with us about the devastating consequences of a second Trump administration and what actions can be taken now before inauguration day. Top of mind is the implementation of Project 2025 and the Life at Conception Act, which would institute federal fetal personhood and override state law to act as a federal abortion ban. It would also ban contraception, invitro fertilization (IVF), and fertility treatment. There is also a likelihood that pregnancy criminalization will increase and attacks to the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) and the abortion pill, mifepristone, will increase. Mass application of the Comstock Act, a 150-year-old-law that could ban mailing of the abortion pill and the gutting of regulatory agencies are also on the table. There are some protective actions the Biden administration can take before January. You can also find additional ways to take personal action in our Take Action section. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 19, 2024
The Status of Abortion Access in Florida After the Recent Ballot Initiative
After the Dobbs decision that overturned Roe v. Wade , and for many years before, Florida served as an abortion access point for many people in the South. But with changing judicial interpretation of “privacy” in the state, access to abortion in Florida has shifted. Laura Goodhue, Executive Director of Florida Alliance of Planned Parenthood Affiliates, sits down to talk with us about the status of abortion access in Florida and the outcome of the state ballot initiative in the November 2024 election. After the passage of S.B. 8 in Texas and the overturning of Roe , clinics in the northern area of Florida saw a quadrupled number of patients coming in from out of state seeking care. In May 2024, Florida passed a 6-week abortion ban, which has drastically impacted access for both Floridians and those traveling for abortion care. This year’s ballot initiative was aimed at passing a citizen-led Constitutional amendment clarifying that abortion is a decision to be left to a doctor and patient. It passed by 57%; but the current rule in Florida requires a 60% majority vote for the initiative to pass, so it did not go into effect. Find more information on Florida’s Amendment 4 here . You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 12, 2024
Young People Deserve Reliable Birth Control Information and Access
Power to Decide, a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing sexual and reproductive wellbeing for all, has launched a new survey initiative called the Youth Reproductive Health Access Survey. It aims to collect annual data on young people’s access to sexual and reproductive health services, with emphasis on contraception and abortion. Riley Steiner , Senior Director, Research and Evaluation at Power to Decide, sits down to talk to us about the survey’s findings—including information gaps, preferences, and service provision related to young people’s access to basic contraceptive care. The survey’s data is collected online from approximately 1,000 young people ages 15-29, assigned female at birth. Power to Decide collected striking knowledge gaps and notable findings, including that a quarter of respondents indicated that they didn't have enough information to decide whether using birth control was the right thing for them and that a third of respondents indicated that they didn't have enough information to decide which birth control methods are right for them. Because there’s a noted lack of information and access, Power to Decide’s findings show that providers and advocates must think creatively to get young people the care they need. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 05, 2024
Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Hero Origin Stories – Round 6
Today is already stressful as is—that’s why we thought it a perfect time for round 6 of our series, SRHR Hero Origin Stories! If you haven’t already, check out our previous episodes, SRHR Hero Origin Stories , SRHR Hero Origin Stories: Round 2 , SRHR Hero Origin Stories: Round 3, SRHR Hero Origin Stories: Round 4 , and SRHR Origin Stories: Round 5 , where we talked to a number of amazing heroes in the field of reproductive health, rights, and justice about how they began working in this space. We hope you enjoy the reprisal of our most popular podcast episode, talking to leaders about their work, passions, and journeys into the field of reproductive health for a fifth time! Guests include: Jennie Wetter – rePROs Fight Back Shireen Rose Shakouri – Reproaction Kate Kelly – Center for American Progress Maniza Habib – Population Institute Dázon Dixon Diallo – SisterLove, Inc Sarah Craven – UNFPA You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Wed, October 30, 2024
Proposition 139: The Ballot Measure that Could Protect Abortion in Arizona
On election day, Arizonans can vote to amend the state Constitution to establish the fundamental right to abortion. This amendment, which would undoubtedly increase access to abortion care, is especially salient given that Arizona has become an abortion access battleground state since the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision that overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. Alex Gomez , Executive Director of LUCHA – Living United for Change in Arizona, sits down to talk to us about Proposition 139 and what its possible passage may mean for the future of abortion in the state. Proposition 139, the Right to Abortion Initiative, would enshrine abortion access into the state constitution and conclude that Arizona may not interfere with an individual’s pregnancy before the point of fetal viability (the measure also protects access past fetal viability in cases of protecting the life, physical, or mental health of the pregnant person). In addition, the ballot initiative would prevent punitive laws aimed at people accessing abortion, or those assisting them. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Wed, October 30, 2024
Proposition 139: The Ballot Measure that Could Protect Abortion in Arizona
On election day, Arizonans can vote to amend the state Constitution to establish the fundamental right to abortion. This amendment, which would undoubtedly increase access to abortion care, is especially salient given that Arizona has become an abortion access battleground state since the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision that overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. Alex Gomez , Executive Director of LUCHA – Living United for Change in Arizona, sits down to talk to us about Proposition 139 and what its possible passage may mean for the future of abortion in the state. Proposition 139, the Right to Abortion Initiative, would enshrine abortion access into the state constitution and conclude that Arizona may not interfere with an individual’s pregnancy before to point of fetal viability (the measure also protects access past fetal viability in cases of protecting the life, physical, or mental health of the pregnant person). In addition, the ballot initiative would prevent punitive laws aimed at people accessing abortion, or those assisting them. Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, October 22, 2024
Busting Disinformation and Pervasive Narratives is Crucial for Bodily Autonomy
Disinformation around reproductive health and rights is highly strategic, leading to pervasive narratives that intentionally divide and control. Anneshia Hardy , scholar-activist, social impact entrepreneur, and narrative strategist, and Executive Director of both Alabama Values and Alabama Values Progress, sits down to talk to us about pervasive narratives and mis- and disinformation surrounding sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), particularly in the Black community, and how busting these narratives is crucial in the fight for bodily autonomy and liberation. This conversation is rooted in years of historical context. In the U.S., Black women have faced generations of exploitation and control over their bodies, and much of this exploitation and control exists to this day. Other birthing people, including Indigenous, Latinx, and Asian people, as well as people with disabilities, have also faced reproductive violence in the U.S. Some of the most marginalized communities are also unduly impacted by false narratives around SRHR, including: SRHR is separate from racial justice or only a “woman’s issue”; abortion bans are about “protecting babies,”; or abortion is a moral and religious imperative. Control over our bodies is fundamental to liberation, and these narratives not only impede—but disproportionately so—people’s ability to live freely. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, October 15, 2024
AMA: Taking Care of Yourself in a World That’s Hard on Reproductive Health and Rights
From self-care advice to an imaginary performance on the Great British Bake Off, Rachel Fey, Vice President, Policy, and Strategic Partnerships at Power to Decide, asks our host Jennie Wetter a collection of ask me anything (AMA) questions! You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, October 08, 2024
Abortion In the USA: The Human Rights Crisis After Dobbs – A Deep Dive With Amnesty International USA
Abortion is a human right—it’s outlined in international treaties and standards that apply to the United States. But even before Roe v. Wade was overturned, the United States was not meeting its human rights obligations. Tarah Demant , National Director of Programs at Amnesty International USA, sits down to talk with us about a new Amnesty report highlighting the status of U.S. abortion access since the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court case that overturned Roe . Because of Dobbs , and in partnership with subsequent state-based abortion bans, millions of people are facing increased barriers to abortion care. These barriers are, and always have been, disproportionately faced by different populations and communities in the U.S. Some elements that are impacting access to care post- Roe include the logistical and financial costs of travel, in-person requirements, the rise in pregnancy criminalization, and the criminalization of medical professionals and advocates. With exceptions (which do not provide as much flexibility as made to seem) stacked on top of these cases, access is incredibly difficult to achieve. Learn more in the Amnesty International USA report, accessible in the links section below. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, October 01, 2024
The Global Gag Rule’s Harm Has Persisted for 40 Years
The Global Gag Rule (GGR) prevents foreign non-governmental organizations that receive U.S. foreign assistance funds from providing, advocating for, counseling on, or referring for abortion services—and has successfully done so for 40 years. Beirne Roose-Snyder , Senior Director at the Preclusion Project, and Bergen Cooper , Senior Research Advisor at the Preclusion Project and Chief Operating Officer with the Torchlight Collective, sit down to talk with us about the history of this destructive policy, its long and heart-wrenching impacts, and what the future of the GGR might look like. The GGR, introduced in 1984 by President Ronald Raegan, is a presidential memorandum that is either reinstated or revoked depending on which political party is in the Oval Office. In 2017, the rule was expanded by the Trump administration to apply to all global heath assistance funding. The GGR has, and continues to, affect LGBTQI populations, people living in rural areas, people living with disabilities, sex workers, and healthcare providers, when accessing or providing abortion, contraception, gender-based violence care, HIV /AIDS care, STI care, and more. With the possibility of a change in administration coming soon, the GGR under Project 2025 may extend its reach farther and worsen outcomes. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, September 24, 2024
SCOTUS’ Upcoming Term: What To Expect
Next week, the Supreme Court term will begin. While there are no abortion cases on the docket yet, there are many cases that concern sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice and the rights of the LGBTQI+ community. Jessica Mason Pieklo, Senior Vice President and Executive Editor at Rewire News Group and co-host of Rewire News Group's podcast Boom! Lawyered, sits down to talk with us about some cases that face SCOTUS this term, as well as potential cases to keep a careful eye on. United States v. Skrimetti, which will be before the Court this term, involves challenges to Kentucky and Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors, and whether those bans violate the equal protection clause of the Constitution. In addition, some cases that could make their way up the docket include a grouping of conservative attorneys general are attempting to bring back challenges to mifepristone access, Idaho’s resurrection of EMTALA challenges, and Oklahoma’s appeal to challenge the Biden administration on requirements for Title X funding. Lastly, a petition currently sits before the Supreme Court that could potentially end the case that green-lit wrongful death suits related to invitro fertilization in Alabama. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, September 17, 2024
Economics and Reproductive Health and Rights are Closely Intertwined
Economics and reproductive health and rights are connected issues. Especially in states where abortion is banned and contraception faces increasing attacks, associated costs for care can vary widely. Kate Bahn , Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of Research at the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, sits down to talk with us about the economic impacts of attacks to reproductive health and rights—on an individual, local, and national level. Access (or lack thereof) to abortion and contraception can carry a host of indirect and direct financial consequences. Costs from traveling to access abortion, obtaining childcare, and booking lodging can impact how people make their reproductive choices. Individuals can also be financially impacted by unplanned fertility outcomes, such as having a child at a time when they were not planning to. To learn more, you can find our podcast episode on the Turnaway Study with Dr. Diana Greene Foster here . Other financial considerations should also be afforded to those undergoing invitro fertilization and navigating miscarriage. In addition, research shows that those who have access to contraception and abortion experience more flexibility and exploration in academic and professional opportunities. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, September 10, 2024
Everything You Need to Know About the Equal Rights Amendment
The Equal Rights Amendment, an amendment to the Constitution, protects people from discrimination on the basis of sex. Kate Kelly , Senior Director of the Women’s Initiative at the Center for American Progress, sits down to talk with us all about the Equal Rights Amendment—its history, its importance for abortion access preservation, and what’s necessary for certification. The ERA, passed in 1923, is not a law but a constitutional amendment. Once put in, it cannot be removed. The ERA’s introduction and popularity became a target for the conservative right, and its ratification has faced barriers ever since, including during the Trump administration. The current Federal Register archivist has said in her confirmation hearings that she will not certify anything she isn’t instructed to, which leaves the U.S. at its current standing. Many organizations and Congresspeople, though, are pushing for the ERA’s introduction into the Constitution as the 28th amendment. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, September 03, 2024
The Midwest U.S.: Piecing Together Abortion Care and Access
The Midwest is a patchwork of different abortion laws—while some states like Michigan and Minnesota have protected access, others have completely banned care, like Indiana and Missouri. Garnet Henderson , Senior Multiplatform Reporter at Rewire News Group and host and producer of ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion, sits down to talk with us about abortion access in the Midwest, including how it may be further impacted by recent funding changes to the National Abortion Federation and Planned Parenthood Federation of America. People residing in or near states that have banned abortion often travel to Illinois for care (although some may also travel to states like Nebraska, Minnesota, and Kansas), which was the state with the single largest increase in its abortion rate after Dobbs due to out-of-state travelers. These states are having to absorb skyrocketing rates of traveling patients on top of in-state patients seeking care. Iowa’s abortion restrictions and abysmal access rates to OB/GYN care and maternity care has resulted in maternity care deserts across large swaths of the state, and a shocking 61% of hospitals in rural areas having no labor and delivery service. Simultaneously, the Justice Fund, a financial assistance fund for low-income patients which is shared between PPFA and NAF, has been reduced with less than a month’s notice from 50% coverage per patient to 30%. This leaves patients with an even more shrunken lifeline to access. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, August 27, 2024
The Largest SRHR Wins and Challenges of the Past 30 Years
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. The agency advocates for, provides access to, and educates on sexual and reproductive health and rights services. Rebecca Zerzan , editor with UNFPA, sits down to talk with us about UNFPA’s 2024 state of world population report, Interwoven Lives, Threads of Hope: Ending Inequalities in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights . Rebecca also details the ways in which global misinformation impacts access to care. UNFPA is the world’s largest procurer of donated contraception, which is distributed mostly in low- and middle-income countries. UNFPA also works closely with local organizations and agencies to facilitate access to medically accurate, culturally sensitive education. UNFPA’s recent report looks back over the last three decades, when the scale of maternal death was unknown, rates of adolescent births were higher, and rates of women’s contraception usage was halved, and discusses global progress. The report also researches misinformation around the world and how that impacts an individual’s access to comprehensive care. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, August 20, 2024
The New Protections Added to Title IX—and the New Challenges it Faces
Title IX, a civil rights law enacted in 1972, is a statute meant to protect students from sex discrimination in educational environments to maintain equal opportunity to educational access. This year, the Biden administration released a new Title IX rule, which provides additional protections for those who are most likely to experience sex discrimination at school. Shiwali Patel , Senior Director of Safe and Inclusive Schools at the National Women’s Law Center, sits down with us to talk about what this rule change accomplishes and what challenges it faces. In April 2024, the Biden administration released the new rule, which, most significantly, clarified protections for LGBTQI+ students, provided additional protections for pregnant and parenting students, and expands protections against sexual harassment. The rule also undid many of the Trump administration’s harmful Title IX changes. Unfortunately, these celebrated changes are being challenged in court. In addition, some congressional members are using the Congressional Review Act to attempt to reverse these protections. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, August 13, 2024
Project 2025’s Sweeping Implications for Reproductive Health and Rights in the U.S.
In previous episodes, we’ve outlined Project 2025’s reach into global governance, LGBTQI+ health and rights, and the international sphere. Sabrina Talukder, Director of the Women’s Initiative at the Center for American Progress, sits down to talk with us about what the Heritage Foundation’s conservative roadmap means specifically for U.S. sexual and reproductive health and rights. Project 2025 seeks to misapply the Comstock Act— a 150-year-old law which would allow enforcement power to investigate the U.S. mail for items of an “illicit,” “lewd,” or “immoral” purpose, including items related to abortion—as a national, backdoor abortion ban. Comstock could be applied not only to abortion education and medication sent through the mail, but medical equipment, as well. In addition, Project 2025 seeks to eliminate the Affordable Care Act, which protects free access to emergency contraception for 48 million women in the U.S. Project 2025 will no doubt negatively impact the U.S.’ already abysmal Black maternal health crisis. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, August 06, 2024
Project 2025 is Already in Action
Many of the outlined ambitions of Project 2025 are focused around concentrating executive power, de-regulation, and religious protections, all of which have massive implications in the U.S. and around the world. Gillian Kane , Director of Global Research and Advocacy at Ipas, sits down to talks with us about the active, global reach of Project 2025 and Protego—in multiple countries and in global governance. In the previous administration, the Geneva Consensus Declaration (GCD) was a tool to cement America and its allies as anti-abortion. This manifesto, signed by 36+ countries, pushes national sovereignty, “traditional” family structures, and anti-abortion ideology, and is used as a guide for Project 2025. Protego, a program designed by the Institute for Women’s Health (IWH), is a new project dedicated to ensuring the GCD takes off. Valerie Huber, past member of the Trump administration and current head of the IWH, has traveled to multiple countries and spoken primarily to first ladies on the implementation of Protego. Valerie Huber is known to be anti-abortion, anti-LBTQI+, and a proponent of abstinence-only education. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 30, 2024
Sexual and Reproductive Health in Emergency and Humanitarian Settings
In conflicts, disasters, and climate and health emergencies, many often consider food, shelter, and water to be the immediate needs of those impacted. While these are incredibly important requirements, women and girls are uniquely impacted by these emergencies, and sexual and reproductive health and rights must also be realized. Gayatri Patel , Chief of External Affairs at the Malala Fund and Senior Fellow with rePROs Fight Back, talks to us about the importance of SRHR provision in humanitarian settings. Gaps in healthcare access extend to abortion, contraception, gender-based violence and sexual violence counseling and care, STI testing/treatment, and more, often brought on by impacted health infrastructure and supply chains. The implementation, support, and prioritization of these comprehensive needs is a step in the right direction for protecting women and girls in crisis scenarios. Some new practices and approaches are showing promising results, and include mobile clinics, cash assistance, legal assistance and further availability of contraception and midwives. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 23, 2024
What Could Project 2025 Mean for the LGBTQI+ Community?
Project 2025 is a broad vision regarding the future of the United States led by the Heritage Foundation. The project is hundreds of pages, centered on continuing a conservative United States through consolidating power in presidency, getting rid of civil servants, and further marginalizing already vulnerable communities. Sarah Warbelow , Vice President, Legal, at the Human Rights Campaign, sits down to talk with us about Project 2025’s specific restrictions targeted at the LGBTQI+ community. Project 2025 seeks to gut protections against discrimination based on sex across education, healthcare, employment, and more. Project 2025 also seeks to rid the federal government’s website of LGBTQI+ inclusive language, prevent access to gender-affirming healthcare, and prevent LGBTQI+ families from adopting children. Anti-LGBTQI+ policy in Project 2025 extends not only in the U.S., but around the world. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 16, 2024
Want to Stay Hopeful in the Ongoing Fight for Repro? These Leaders Share Their Inspiration
This week, we are doing things a little differently! We hear from advocates, medical providers, leaders, and researchers, who tell us about their strategies, reflections, hopes, and joys during the ongoing fight for sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice. Guests featured in this episode include: Jennie Wetter, Director of rePROs Fight Back Dr. Monica McLemore , Professor of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing at the University of Washington and Director of the Manning Price Spratlen Center for Anti-Racism and Equity in Nursing Dr. Diane Horvath , OB/GYN and Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Partners of Abortion Care Beirne Roose-Snyder , Senior Policy Fellow at the Council for Global Equality Greer Donley , Associate Professor with a reproductive rights focus at University of Pittsburgh Law School Rev. Katey Zeh , CEO for the Religious Community for Reproductive Choice Tarah Demant , National Director of Programs at Amnesty International You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 09, 2024
SCOTUS Had a Big Term… What Does it All Mean for Health, Rights, and the Administrative State?
On June 27th, 2024, the Supreme Court punted Idaho v. United States consolidated with Moyle v. United States , which called into question whether federal law protects doctors who provide abortion care in a medical emergency. Jessica Mason Pieklo , Senior Vice President and Executive Editor at Rewire News Group and co-host of Rewire News Group's podcast Boom! Lawyered, talks to us about the implications of the punted case, as well as other Supreme Court rulings that have utterly gutted the administrative state. Idaho v. United States consolidated with Moyle v. United States centered on the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA), which upholds the right to needed healthcare in an emergency. The case centered around EMTALA wasn’t decided on merit—instead, it was dismissed back to the lower courts. At the same time, there exists a similar lawsuit out of Texas questioning EMTALA’s status against the state’s abortion ban. Other Supreme Court cases that will undoubtedly impact the health and rights of Americans include Grants Pass v. Johnson and Chevron U.S.A Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council . Grants Pass, in short, criminalizes and fines those without shelter—which particularly impacts queer youth, those facing domestic violence, people with disabilities, people with mental health issues, and youth who have aged out of foster care systems. Chevron takes deference and administrative decision-making power away from federal agencies and gives it instead to judges. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 02, 2024
How Originalism in the Court Directly Impacts Americans’ Health and Rights
In the past month, the Supreme Court has interacted with three cases that have stark implications for the reproductive health, rights, and wellbeing of many across the U.S. Madiba Dennie , author of The Originalism Trap: How Extremists Stole the Constitution and How We the People Can Take it Back and Deputy Editor and Senior Contributor at the legal commentary outlet Balls and Strikes, sits down to talk to us about originalism, the recent Supreme Court case rulings, and what it all means for the sexual and reproductive health and rights of Americans. On June 13, 2024, the Supreme Court ruled that plaintiffs in FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine —which challenged access to nationwide medication abortion—did not have a legal standing. For now, this ruling preserves the post- Dobbs status-quo, protecting access to mifepristone, a safe and common medication used in nearly two-thirds of abortions, in some states. On June 21, 2024, the Supreme Court ruled in United States v. Rahimi to prevent those with previous domestic violence restraining orders filed against them to possess firearms. And on June 27th, the Supreme Court dismissed a case that would have prevented abortion in the case of medical emergency in Idaho. Access remains protected—for now. Many of the recent Supreme Court cases are rooted in originalism, or the application of U.S. “history” and “tradition” to undermine rights, which has been a trusted roadmap for anti-rights actors in the courts. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, June 25, 2024
Want to Fight for Reproductive Health? Fight for Medicaid, Too.
Medicaid, the largest public health insurance program for people in the United States, exists on a state-by-state basis. But how could Medicaid possibly relate to sexual and reproductive health? Fabiola De Liban , Director, Sexual and Reproductive Health, with the National Health Law Program, sits down to talk with us about what is covered under the program, what’s not covered, Medicaid’s disturbing history related to family planning, and the barriers that patients face on a day-to-day basis. Medicaid is the largest public payer of family planning, covering 75% of all family planning expenditures. It covers almost half of U.S. births, including prenatal, labor, delivery, and postpartum. Medicaid also covers prescription drugs, sterilization, breast cancer services, and some gender -affirming care services. Medicaid does not cover abortion due to the Hyde amendment. Medicaid expansion allows someone who is not pregnant or who doesn't have a child or a disability to be able to qualify to the Medicaid program. When the Affordable Care Act passed, Medicaid expansion would have gone into effect nationwide, if not for states who sued to prevent expansion. Medicaid expansion is now optional, with only 9 states having chosen to not expand. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, June 18, 2024
Abortion Providers Share Their Reflections on a Post-Roe America
Two years after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, abortion providers across the United States are sharing their reflections on the current state of abortion access, how to take action, and their visions for the future. Guests include: Dr. Rachel Chisausky , family medicine physician in the Northwest and fellow with Physicians for Reproductive Health Dr. Keemi Ereme , OB/GYN and abortion provider in Seattle, Washington and fellow with Physicians for Reproductive Health Dr. Miriam McQuade, abortion provider in Albuquerque, New Mexico and fellow with Physicians for Reproductive Health Dr. Jessica Rubino , family medicine physician and abortion care provider in Washington, D.C. and fellow with Physicians for Reproductive Health You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, June 11, 2024
The Dominican Republic and Brazil: A Glimpse into our Abortion Future?
Abortion is impossible to access in the Dominican Republic and extremely inaccessible in Brazil. Misinformation, gender-based violence, and influences from the harmful U.S. anti-abortion movement are contributing to rates of higher need in countries where abortion access is remarkably difficult. Garnet Henderson , Senior Reporter at Rewire News Group and host and producer of ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion , sits down to talk with us about the current status of abortion in the Dominican Republic and Brazil. Abortion is completely illegal with no exceptions in the Dominican Republic, which has one of the higher maternal mortality rates in the Americas and very high rates of child marriage and gender-based violence. In addition, the Dominican Republic and Haiti have a history of forced sterilization, stemming from a history of conflict between the two countries. In Brazil, abortion is illegal with an exception to save the life of the pregnant person who has been a victim of rape or incest, or in the case of fetal anencephaly. Medical providers also refuse to participate in abortion at very high rates in the country, where crisis pregnancy centers are beginning to pop up and rates of sexual violence are high. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, June 04, 2024
Krystale Littlejohn and Rickie Solinger on their New Book, Fighting Mad: Resisting the End of Roe v. Wade
Mourning, anger, and grief were top-line emotions after the overturning of Roe v. Wade . Still, a recently released collection of essays and stories highlights the very real and inspiring on-the-ground work and experiences of reproductive justice leaders, health care professionals, patients, artists, legislators, and more in the wake of Roe’s overturning. Krystale Littlejohn and Rickie Solinger , editors of Fighting Mad: Resisting the End of Roe v. Wade , sits down to remind us about the fact that resistance is everywhere in the fight for abortion and reproductive justice in the United States. Criminalization, poor and inefficient media coverage of sexual and reproductive health, digital surveillance, religious tyranny, and fear and confusion among medical providers are all barriers in the sexual and reproductive health labyrinth in the U.S. that many have had to navigate. Fighting Mad’s essays explores the ways the SRHR patients, providers, advocates, and leaders have navigated these barriers, offering their reflections and perspectives for a better future. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 28, 2024
Behind Closed Doors: Exposing and Addressing Harmful Gender-Based Practices in the United States
Despite often being dismissed as foreign or cultural problems, harmful gender-based practices exist in every community across the United States, affecting countless individuals. Maniza Habib , Research Associate at Population Institute and Amani Nelson , Research Fellow at Population Institute, sit down to talk with us about how to achieve legislative progress and a culturally informed approach to addressing these harms. Behind Closed Doors confronts the reality of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C); child, early, and forced marriage/union (CEFMU); femicide; and virginity testing, which all occur in the U.S. Many of these issues disproportionally impact LGBTQ+ individuals. With culturally competent legislation, survivor-entered resources, and comprehensive sex education, urgent action can be taken to address these harmful gender-based practices. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 21, 2024
Funding Abortion Care and Practical Support in a Hostile Landscape
Following the overturning of Roe v. Wade , abortion funds have been working overtime to support skyrocketing amounts of patients in need . And while there was a large influx in donations to abortion funds after the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court case, those donations have waned in recent years. Lindsey Mullen , Co-Executive Director of the Alabama Cohosh Collaborative and Natalie Price , board member of the Fountain Street Choice Fund, sits down to talk with us about abortion funds, practical support funds, and their work and needs in the years after Dobbs. Targeted regulation of abortion provider (TRAP) laws are increasing after Dobbs . These laws often impact a clinic’s ability to keep staff or stay open, and many staff have lost their employment or seen their clinics close. Closures force patients to have to look and travel even farther for care-- sometimes outside state lines. Telehealth needs have been amplified, with many depending on telehealth care for self-managing their abortion, while some states continue to see their maternal health care desert grow due to a loss of practicing OB/GYNs. With waning financial support, it’s increasingly difficult for abortion funds and practical support funds to continue to provide people access and assistance. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 14, 2024
The Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare Crisis in Gaza
Sexual and reproductive health doesn’t disappear in humanitarian settings. People don’t stop needing obstetric care, getting pregnant, needing birth control, needing safe abortion care, or needing gender-based violence support in emergency situations. In fact, 65% of all maternal deaths, 50% of all newborn deaths, and 51% of all stillbirths occur in humanitarian settings. Judith Starkulla , Head of Office for UNFPA in Gaza, shares her thoughts on the SRHR needs of those in the region. UNFPA supplies medicine, dignity kits, gender-based violence services, and specialized healthcare to hospitals and individual patients. Currently, in Gaza, health infrastructure has been ruined and many people have nowhere to turn to for care. Only 3 maternity hospitals are functioning across Gaza, and they are overcrowded with people needing assistance. Stress, hunger, and fear are impacting mothers and children. Yet, UNFPA cannot deliver aid while Gaza continues to face bombardment and closed border crossings, and medicines and supplies have been destroyed by fire and explosions. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 07, 2024
You Deserve Reliable Information to Make Choices About Birth Control
Social media and limited national standards around sex education means sexual and reproductive health misinformation and disinformation can run rampant. Especially when it comes to birth control, the wrong information can lead to knowledge gaps and limit access to contraceptive care. Dr. Raegan McDonald-Mosley , CEO of Power to Decide and practicing physician, sits down to talk with us about mis- and disinformation around birth control. Recent research from Power to Decide found that, while 38% of young people received information on contraception from social media, many of the same people wanted to receive that information from a health provider. Additional research found that 28% of young people who haven't received birth control information in the last year did not believe that birth control was safe. Examples of mis- and disinformation often include links between oral contraception and cancer, contraception and fertility, and the conflation of contraception and abortion (for example, many politicians compare emergency contraception and IUDs to abortifacients). Correcting mis- and disinformation surrounding contraception will open more doors for those requiring care and increase patient knowledge and confidence. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 30, 2024
The American Anti-Abortion Movement’s Terrifying Reach Across the World
Trigger warning: In this episode we talk about sexual assault and descriptions of unsafe abortions. Please engage with challenging content with caution. 45% of the 73 million abortions a year are unsafe. One of the reasons they are unsafe is due to U.S. policies that place restrictions on how family planning-related foreign assistance is used. Jodi Enda , Washington Bureau Chief and Senior Correspondent for The Fuller Project, sits down to talk with us about the multiple tools used by the U.S.-- including the Helms amendment and the Global Gag Rule-- and how far their harmful reach truly extends. These unsafe abortions result in approximately 39,000 preventable maternal deaths and millions of complications each year. The U.S. is the biggest healthcare funder in the world, as well as the biggest funder of family planning assistance. Still, The Helms amendment and the Global Gag Rule both impact U.S. funding and U.S. global health assistance as it relates to abortion care, albeit in different ways. These foreign policies disproportionately impact access to abortion care for those who have experienced sexual violence, those who are in conflict and humanitarian settings, and those of low-incomes. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 23, 2024
How The Supreme Court Could Endanger Access to Emergency Abortion Care
The Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act, or EMTALA, is a statute passed by Congress in 1986 to ensure that nobody who is experiencing a medical emergency is turned away from receiving health care. But this week, the Supreme Court will hear arguments challenging EMTALA as it relates to emergency abortion care. Katie O’Connor , Director of Federal Abortion Policy at the National Women’s Law Center sits down to talk with us about the potential impacts of this ruling. Under EMTALA, an emergency medical condition is defined “as a condition in which, without immediate medical attention, a patient's health or life is in serious jeopardy.” The statute does not make exceptions for state law, the personal beliefs of providers, or hospitals of religious affiliation. For pregnant people, abortion care can be a very necessary, time-sensitive, and sometimes life-saving health service. State-level abortion bans are already forcing patients to travel hours and long distances to receive care, and providers to leave the hostile states they are practicing in. EMTALA’s ruling may narrow, even more, the already constricted landscape that patients and providers find themselves navigating in the United States—especially for those who are experiencing an emergency. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 16, 2024
Florida’s Six-Week Abortion Ban Will Devastate Access in the South
Florida—a state with the third largest population in the U.S. and the second largest abortion provider in the U.S.—has recently allowed a state Supreme Court decision that will ban abortion after six weeks gestation . Lauren Brenzel, Campaign Director with Floridians Protecting Freedom sits down to talk with us about the inner workings of this case and how it will further impact abortion access for those in the state and across the country. After this policy goes into effect on May 1st, 2024, patients in Florida (who can) will likely have to travel as far as New York and Illinois to receive abortion care. Florida’s Supreme Court decision follows up years of challenging legislative sessions that have dismantled public education, banned sex education, and prevented the expansion of Medicaid. A ballot initiative has been introduced that may remove the Supreme Court ruling in November. If you’d like to learn more about reproductive justice and voting rights, check out our past podcast episode here . You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 09, 2024
BMHW24 – Reproductive Justice, Black Maternal Health, and the Supreme Court
April 11-17, 2024, marks Black Maternal Health week. Dr. Monica McLemore , Professor of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing at the University of Washington and Director of the Manning Price Spratlen Center for Anti-Racism and Equity in Nursing sits down to talk with us about the state of maternal morbidity and mortality in the U.S., the upcoming Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) Supreme Court case, and achieving comprehensive reproductive justice. Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy related case than white women, with the CDC noting that 80% of pregnancy related deaths are preventable. As the Supreme Court gets ready to hear the EMTALA case, which could allow medical professionals to turn those in urgent or emergency need of an abortion away due to “conscience” concerns, maternal mortality and morbidity may increase as abortion becomes increasingly more difficult to access. As the wealthiest nation with the worst maternal health outcomes, the United States has the capacity to recognize the human right to choose if, when, and how to have children, access resources to plan one’s family, parent children in safe and sustainable communities, experience bodily autonomy and sexual pleasure, and provide holistic health care through a reproductive justice lens. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 02, 2024
Pregnancy Criminalization, Surveillance, and the Child Welfare System
Pregnancy criminalization—often rooted in fetal personhood laws and anti-drug sentiment—has a long history and applies criminal suspicions to those who have pregnancies resulting in miscarriages or stillbirths. Lourdes Rivera, President of Pregnancy Justice and Dr. Dorothy Roberts , professor of Africana Studies, Law, and Sociology at the University of Pennsylvania and author of Torn Apart: How the Child Welfare System Destroys Black Families—and How Abolition Can Build a Safer World , sit down to talk with us about pregnancy criminalization, the child welfare system, and how Roe’s overturning further impacts rates of criminalization. Themes of compelling people to give birth, the separation of families, and the criminalization of pregnancy reaches back to the United States’ slavery era. Pregnancy criminalization heavily unfolded during the U.S.’ crack cocaine epidemic in the 1980s, disproportionately targeting Black women and turning a public health matter into a criminal one. These reproductive liberties, which have been consistently attacked throughout U.S. history, are further constrained with the repeal of Roe . Mandatory reporters within the current child welfare system are much more likely to report Black women to child protection authorities, as well as impoverished patients. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 26, 2024
The 150-Year-Old Law that Could Impact Abortion Pill Access Today
The Comstock Act, a 150-year-old law named after “anti-vice” crusader Anthony Comstock, passed in 1873. It allowed enforcement power to investigate the U.S. mail for items of an “illicit,” “lewd,” or “immoral” purpose, including items related to abortion. Greer Donley , Associate Professor and Reproductive Justice Scholar at University of Pittsburgh Law School, sits down to talk with us about the Comstock Act—what is it, what it means, and how anti-abortion activists are working to revive it. Today, the courts are packed with extreme conservative judges and Trump-appointees who maintain a vested interest in maintaining the act as a strategy to ban abortion pills and procedural items sent through the mail. To combat the Comstock Act and its ability to further decimate reproductive health and rights, Comstock must be completely repealed, and a presidential administration that doesn’t enforce Comstock is necessary. The president, who also has the power of pardoning, can pre-pardon anyone later convicted within the 5-year statutory period of a Comstock-related crime before leaving office. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 19, 2024
Bridging Gaps in California's Abortion Access
California, a self-dubbed “reproductive freedom state,” scored an A+ on rePROs Fight Back’s forthcoming 50-state report card on reproductive health and rights. However, numerous barriers to abortion– a form of basic healthcare– persist in every state, California included. Jessica Pinckney Gil, Executive Director at ACCESS REPRODUCTIVE JUSTICE, California's statewide abortion fund, sits down to talk with us about the fragmentary landscape of abortion access in the state through a reproductive justice lens and progress made in bridging gaps to care. Abortion is not accessible for many Californians, particularly low-income individuals and those living in rural areas, and fewer than two-thirds of counties in California have abortion clinics, leaving some residents hundreds of miles away from care. Transportation, childcare, unreliable internet access, and taking time off work can present insurmountable obstacles for many. Still, grassroots efforts and legislative initiatives are making strides toward improving abortion access in the state. The California Future of Abortion Council, a group of reproductive justice activists, researchers, providers, and patients, produced two reports featuring recommendations to improve and safeguard abortion access in the state. These recommendations have led to the introduction of 28 pro-abortion bills in the 2022 and 2023 legislative sessions and secured over $200 million in funding to expand abortion access in California. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 12, 2024
Finding Progress and Joy in State-Level Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice Policy
Particularly after the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision, reproductive health, rights, and justice can feel very doom-and-gloom. Yet, states around the country are continuing to undertake progressive and opportunistic legislative advancement. Jennifer Driver , Senior Director of Reproductive Rights with the State Innovation Exchange, sits down to talk with us about exciting state-level movement, how to successfully work with legislators, and what wins we may expect to see in the near future. Increasing contraceptive access, the removal of funding for crisis pregnancy centers, and the introduction of constitutional protections are just some examples of progressive state legislature that may expand and support sexual and reproductive health and rights. In addition, some bills focused around maternal health, doulas, and midwifery are sources of hopeful change. While it can often feel like SRHRJ is impacted by one bad policy after the next, let’s take a moment to celebrate the encouraging push for access across the country. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 05, 2024
Alabama’s Supreme Court Ruling: IVF, Fetal Personhood, and a Ripple Effect
In a recent decision, the Alabama Supreme Court declared frozen embryos the same status as people. The decision, which is not grounded in law, references theology and the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case as a citation. Jessica Mason Pieklo , Senior Vice President and Executive Editor at Rewire News Group and cohost of Boom! Lawyered, sits down to talk with us about the recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling, in vitro fertilization, and the concept of fetal personhood. This ruling stems from a legal situation in which an in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinic worker dropped some embryo dishes, accidentally destroying them. This court case ruling has effectively shut down IVF therapy across the state, which will undoubtedly cause a ripple effect and disproportionately impact those who depend upon IVF for family planning. This ruling may also have implications for contraception—if life, according to Alabama, truly “begins at conception,” then IUDs, which purposefully interferes with implantation, may be at risk. Another upcoming Supreme Court case, Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA , will prove threatening to medication abortion and telehealth generally. You can learn more here . You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 27, 2024
Gretchen Sisson on her New Book, Relinquished: The Politics of Adoption and the Privilege of American Motherhood
Per year in the U.S., there are around 4 million births, between 850,000 - 1,000,0000 abortions, and 18,000 - 22,000 private domestic infant adoptions. Gretchen Sisson , Sociologist in Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH) at the University of San Francisco and author of Relinquished: The Politics of Adoption and the Privilege of American Motherhood , sits down to talk to us about the history of American domestic adoption, busts some adoption myths, and underlines how adoption and reproductive health and rights intertwine. Adoption is the U.S. has a long, complicated, and often painful history. In the modern day, adoption is often presented as an alternative to abortion, but Gretchen’s research showed that study participants rarely weighed an abortion vs. adoption; most often, people who couldn’t get an abortion then turned to adoption relinquishment as an option. There is no telling what the overturning of Roe will mean for the future of abortion and adoption in the U.S.—data on adoptions pre- Roe is still sparse. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 20, 2024
Roe Was Never Enough: A Conversation with Abortion Fund of Ohio’s Executive Director
For decades, abortion funds have worked tirelessly to bridge the gaps in access for people who needed abortion care. Their very existence highlights the fact that Roe failed to protect and address the needs of many communities marginalized by systems of oppression. Lexis Dotson-Dufault , Executive Director of the Abortion Fund of Ohio (AFO), sits down to talk with us about her first abortion, the importance of reproductive justice, and why Roe was never enough. Having grown up in a conservative environment, Lexis initially did not see abortion as an option when she discovered she was experiencing an unwanted pregnancy. Open and de-stigmatized conversations about abortion empowered Lexis to get the care that she needed. Now an abortion storyteller and champion herself, Lexis’s abortion story exemplifies that abortion storytelling changes and saves lives. As Executive Director of AFO—an organization grounded in reproductive justice—Lexis has borne first-hand witness to the profound impact of the Dobbs decision. In the journey towards collective liberation, it is imperative that we center the visionary leadership of Black reproductive justice activists and organizations and transform sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice in the United States. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 13, 2024
This Valentine’s Day, We’re Talking Pleasure!
As Valentine’s Day approaches, we’re talking about the ultimate sexual and reproductive health and rights topic-- pleasure! Having researched how Black women experience and internalize pleasure, Lorraine Lacroix-Williamson , public health researcher, sits down to talk with us about sexual pleasure, how it fits into the sexual and reproductive health and rights umbrella, and how it relates to public health. Stigma, purity culture, mis- and dis-information and limited sex education act as barriers to honest feelings and conversations about sexual pleasure. These barriers disproportionately impact women; a 2018 study looking at national data found a huge discrepancy in orgasm experience. Heterosexual men experienced an orgasm 95% of the time they engaged in sexual activity, followed by gay men at 89% of the time and bisexual men at 88%. Lesbian women experienced orgasm 86% of the time, followed by bisexual women at 66%, and heterosexual women at 65%. The good news? There’s plenty of resources to use, things to learn, and ideas to explore to define what pleasure means to you. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 06, 2024
Project 2025 is a Road Map to a Conservative United States. Here’s What You Need to Know.
Politicizing independent institutions, spreading misinformation, aggrandizing and consolidating executive power, weakening checks and balances, quashing criticism and dissent, marginalizing and restricting rights of specific communities, corrupting election, and stoking violence are patterns right out of authoritarian playbook. These patterns are written all over Project 2025, an initiative out of the Heritage Foundation. Beirne Roose-Snyder , Senior Policy Fellow at the Council for Global Equality, sits down to talk with us about Project 2025—what is it, how it seeks to shape America, and what it means for LGBTQI+ rights and sexual and reproductive health and rights. Project 2025 is a broad vision about the future of the United States led by the Heritage Foundation. The project includes a 950-page map to achieving the project, which is centered maintaining a conservative President and, ultimately, continuing a conservative United States of America. Approximately 80 organizations have signed on to this project, and the targeting and restricting of LGBTQI+ rights and sexual and reproductive health and rights is overrepresented throughout the project and roadmap. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 30, 2024
A Deep Dive into Idaho’s Increasingly Extremist Abortion Landscape
White supremacist, Christian nationalist extremists have infiltrated state government on all levels in Idaho, which has created the political environment that led to abortion bans in the state. Garnet Henderson , Senior Multiplatform Reporter for Rewire News Group and host and producer of ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion, sits down to talk to us about her 10-day reporting trip to the state of Idaho and what she uncovered. Idaho, which was one of the first states to ban abortion outright after the Dobbs decision, and implemented the “abortion trafficking” law (which is currently blocked as a legal challenge proceeds), faces a variety of abortion and pregnancy/childbirth barriers. Severe driving times, hospital closures in rural communities, a dissolved maternal mortality review board, stigma, and abortion bans themselves create a climate of fear and impact people’s reproductive decisions. Thankfully, Idaho has introduced a progressive voting campaign and recently voted to expand Medicaid. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 23, 2024
Good News: The Biden Administration Finalized New Refusal Rules
There are a number of provisions in federal statutes that allow providers and hospitals the ability to refuse to provide care, or the information a patient may need to get care elsewhere, if the provider objects on moral or religious grounds. Katie O’Connor , Director of Federal Abortion Policy at the National Women’s Law Center, sits down to talk with us about the history of refusal statutes and rules, what it looks like to be a patient up against refusals, and the new refusal rules out of the Biden administration. The Trump administration finalized rules that defined refusals and greatly expanded the amount of people in the healthcare systems that could potentially refuse care. The Biden administration’s new rules around refusals rescind the Trump rules, taking us back to the refusal of care statutes with no extended reach. Ideally, and in congruence with this, stripping the Weldon amendment from the Labor HHS appropriations bill and repealing the Hyde amendment would expand access to abortion. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 16, 2024
Need Help Getting an Abortion? r/abortion Has Answers
Abortion information, policies, and access is always changing. Ariella Messing, founder and Executive Director of the Online Abortion Resource Squad (OARS), sits down to talk with us about the r/abortion subreddit, a landscape of constantly shifting information, and navigating abortion mis- and disinformation on the internet. The Online Abortion Resource Squad was born of a Slack channel and has since shifted to run the abortion subreddit, r/abortion. OARS has provided information throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, after the passage of Texas’s SB8, and after the Supreme Court ruling on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization . Volunteers, including moderator volunteers who are on for 12-hours a day, undergo intensive training and point those seeking assistance on r/abortion towards information and resources. Links Online Abortion Resource Squad Online Abortion Resource Squad on Twitter Online Abortion Resource Squad on LinkedIn r/abortion on Reddit Take Action First and foremost, follow the Online Abortion Resource Squad on Twitter and LinkedIn . You can also follow r/abortion on Reddit here . Figure out whatever steps you would need to take to access an abortion in your community, and make sure you are intimately familiar with those steps. Next, apply the same steps for loved ones in your life. Learn the laws where you live. Talk to your doctor, talk to your local representatives, and talk to people in your communities about ways to strengthen abortion access. If you see someone on Reddit who needs abortion help, send them to/abortion. If possible, donate ! You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks
Tue, January 09, 2024
So Many Sexual and Reproductive Health Court Cases, So Little Time
A variety of court cases, which have the ability to severely restrict, limit, and criminalize sexual and reproductive health care—such as abortion— are circulating throughout the U.S. Jessica Mason Pieklo, Senior Vice President and Executive Editor, at Rewire News Group and co-host of Rewire News Group's podcast Boom! Lawyered, sits down to talk with us about current court cases around the country and what these cases may mean for protecting basic SHRH care. The pillars of these court cases include that of miscarriage criminalization, abortion ban exceptions, criminalizing medical providers, placing care limitations on emergency rooms, state abortion bans, and access to mifepristone; the decisions that come from these cases may have erect more barriers to care, spread additional stigma, and create legal concerns for patients and providers. Links Jessica Mason Pieklo on Twitter Rewire.News on Twitter Rewire.News on Facebook SCOTUS Is Likely to Decide if Abortion Is Health Care Idaho's Reproductive Health Crisis and Christian Nationalism Ohio Woman Who Miscarried Faces Charge That She Abused Corpse Kate Cox sought an abortion in Texas. A court said no because she didn’t show her life was in danger Take Action Follow Rewire.News on Twitter and Facebook , and find Jessica Mason Pieklo on Twitter here . Take care of yourself. These court fights will require a long haul approach, and do what you need to do to engage in self-care. Make sure you are supporting direct aid services—donate, if possible, to your local abortion funds . In addition, amplify local voices, which most intimately understand the network of care. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: <a href='https://www.facebook.com/re
Tue, January 02, 2024
New Year, New Blueprint for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice
The Blueprint for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice is a federal policy agenda that briefs every incoming administration on how to expand and protect domestic and global sexual and reproductive healthcare. Caitlin Horrigan , Senior Director of Global Advocacy for Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Candace Gibson , Director of Government Relations at the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, sit down to talk with us about the 2023 Blueprint for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice and how it reflects the overturning of Roe v. Wade . The blueprint outlines policy actions and leadership actions—including executive actions that can be taken by the President and asks for government agencies, including asks from the Department of Homeland Security, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Department of Health and Human Services. Links Blueprint for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice on Twitter National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice on Facebook Planned Parenthood Federation of America on Twitter Planned Parenthood Federation of America on Facebook Take Action First and foremost, follow NLIRJ on Twitter and Facebook and PPFA on Twitter and Facebook . Amplify the blueprint and the policy agenda it lays out in your communities and platforms. Share on social media, share with friends, family, and policy makers, and send to related (and non-related!) organizations. Reach out to local, state, and federal elected officials and stress the importance of achieving the vision of SRHR for all. You can contact the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social <br/
Tue, December 19, 2023
Here's What a World That Achieves LGBTQ+ Justice Looks Like
The needs of LGBTQI+ people to live safe, healthy, and fulfilling lives are as important as the are universally necessary. Vivian Topping, Director of Advocacy and Civic Engagement at the Equality Federation sits down to talks with us about achieving LGBTQI+ justice, what a just world for LGBTQI+ folks looks like, and some hopes for the new year. To support and enhance the lives of those in the LGBTQI+ community, people need access to healthcare, job training, stable housing, and more. Unfortunately, constant legislative attacks to LGBTQI+ people’s rights and safety means that the much-needed progress on these core areas is put on the backburner while acute and dangerous fires are put out. Anti-LGBTQI+ and anti-trans ideology and messaging from far-right groups can be so severe that it seeps into a variety of political and advocacy circles across the spectrum of issue areas. The good news? Over the past year, many states have passed transgender sanctuary laws, while 491 anti-trans bills have also been defeated. As we head into 2024, be on the lookout for continued extremism and misinformation, and also note that loud and out-spoken community resistance. Links Equality Federation on Twitter Equality Federation on Facebook Take Action Items Follow the Equality Federation on Twitter and Facebook and stay up-to-date on their work. Find your local Equality Federation partner, nearby events, and other ways to get involved here ! When state equality groups and LGBTQI+ communities are asking you to show up—whether at protests, voting, calling representatives, etc., be there. If you can, you can also give to your local LGBTQI+ organizations, especially through a reoccurring donation. rePROs Fight Back has been named a finalist in two categories in the 3rd Annual Anthem Awards . The winners of these awards are chosen by support from our community. You can “celebrate” or vote for rePROs Fight Back here: Human and Civil Rights Awareness and Media Awards and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Awareness and Media . Finalists can be celebrated online from December 5th to December 21st at Celebrate.Anthemawards.com . You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 <p
Tue, December 12, 2023
Help! Help! I'm Being Suppressed (Digitally)
Even years before the overturning of Roe v. Wade , reproductive health and rights organizations were noticing that their abortion content posts were being removed, suspended, shadow banned, flagged, and subject to advertising suspension. Jane Eklund , Tech and Reproductive Rights Fellow at Amnesty International USA, sits down to talk with us about abortion content digital suppression on social media platforms. Across social media platforms, abortion-related content is often removed or interfered with in some way even though it does not violate the social media platform’s community guidelines. This can lead to decreased engagement, reach, and visibility for content related to abortion and that is often posted by sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice organizations. Digital platforms have also become spaces were criminalization has increased; police have seized Facebook messages and Google searches to prosecute people for searching for and obtaining abortion care. Links Amnesty International USA on Facebook Amnesty International USA on Twitter Digital Defense Fund Take Action First and foremost, follow Amnesty International on Facebook and Twitter . Follow reproductive health and rights on social media, including their back up accounts. Plan C, Women on Web, and Shout Your Abortion have very helpful information. Like, share, and interact with their content to increase their reach. Support digital campaigns from reproductive health and rights organizations, as well. Make sure you talk about this issue—both abortion and abortion content suppression online. Suppression is silence, which makes space for stigmatization. rePROs Fight Back has been named a finalist in two categories in the 3rd Annual Anthem Awards . The winners of these awards are chosen by support from our community. You can “celebrate” or vote for rePROs Fight Back here: Human and Civil Rights Awareness and Media Awards and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Awareness and Media . Finalists can be celebr
Tue, December 05, 2023
As the Holidays Arrive, Here's How to Navigate THOSE Conversations
As the holiday season continues and people sit down with their family and friends around dinner tables and fireplaces, personal question and general conversations about current events—some related to sexual and reproductive health and rights and transgender health and rights—may arise. Erin Matson , Co-founder, President, and CEO of Reproaction, sits down to talk with us about how to have difficult conversations, when to engage, and how to build up your boundaries during conversations, confrontations, and questions. Links Reproaction on Twitter Reproaction on Facebook Erin Matson on Twitter Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Take Action Follow Reproaction on Twitter and Facebook and stay up-to-date on their work. You can also find Erin Matson on Twitter here . If you want to show that you are an ally or help challenge stigma, you can get some merchandise like this on Bonfire and show your support! Remember, engage in conversations to your own comfortability. Sometimes, we must protect our own mental and emotional wellbeing, safety, and security. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 28, 2023
AMA: You Had Questions, Jennie Has Answers
From the history of how the rePROs Fight Back podcast began to some behind-the-scenes sneak peaks, Tarah Demant , Interim National Director of Programs, Advocacy, and Government Affairs at Amnesty International USA, asks host Jennie Wetter a collection of ask me anything (AMA) questions. Links Amnesty International USA on Twitter Amnesty International USA on Facebook Tarah Demant on Twitter Jennie Wetter on Twitter Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Take Action If you need an abortion, check out this website to find the clinic closest to you. Support your local abortion fund! Find your local abortion fund via the National Network of Abortion Funds. Follow Tarah Demant on Twitter and follow Amnesty International USA on Twitter and Facebook As the holidays approach, remember to have conversations with your family members to your own comfortability. Feel free to push back in a big or small way. You can also wear abortion fund merchandise, like this , to break the stigma! You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 14, 2023
It's Time to Say #ThxBirthControl Because They are Coming for Birth Control
November 15, 2023, is #ThxBirthControl Day! Everyone deserves access to an array of birth control methods that works best for their body, their life, and their goals. Rachel Fey , Vice President of Policy and Strategic Partnerships at Power to Decide, sits down to talk with us about the importance of accessible contraception and why we should keep ab eye out for attacks to birth control. Misinformation and disinformation about birth control has been circulating for a long time and continues to spread—particularly since the Dobbs decision. Supreme Court justices and Congresspeople have recently questioned the constitutionality and need for affordable and accessible birth control, which means now, more than ever, is the time to rally in support for this basic, necessary health care. Join us with Power to Decide in saying #ThxBirthControl! Links Power to Decide on Twitter Power to Decide on Facebook #ThxBirthControl Merchandise #ThxBirthControl Toolkit Power to Decide’s Take Action Center Contraceptive Deserts Advancing Contraceptive Access Toolkit The Right to Contraception: State and Federal Actions, Misinformation, and the Courts Take Action Follow Power to Decide on Twitter and Facebook . Join in on #ThxBirthControl Day! Find social media toolkits, merchandise, and more information on this day here . You can find Power to Decide’s take action center here —sign up to stay informed about their work and urge Congress to support related legislation. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky:
Tue, November 07, 2023
SCOTUS is Hearing a Case That Could Put Guns Back in the Hands of Domestic Abusers
Gun violence prevention and domestic violence are inextricably linked. And today, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear a case, U.S. v Rahimi , that could potentially determine the constitutionality of a gun violence prevention law that has saved millions of lives. Sabrina Talukder, Director of the Women’s Initiative at the Center for American Progress, sits down to talk with us about this upcoming Supreme Court case and its implications for those experiencing domestic violence. When there is a firearm in the home during a domestic violence incident, the risk of death increases by 500 percent. And in 2017, over 5.9 million women reported being shot by a gun by an intimate partner at some point in their life. A 1996 law prevented those with domestic violence records from attaining a firearm—and the law has been incredibly effective. But adherence to originalism in the Supreme Court may discard that law and put the health and lives of domestic abuse survivors at risk. Links Center for American Progress Women on Twitter (they will be live Tweeting the case today) Center for American Progress on Twitter Center for American Progress on Facebook The Supreme Court Case United States v. Rahimi Underscores the Ugly Truth About Originalism and Women Take Action Make space for survivors who are telling their stories and listen to their experiences. You can follow Center for American progress on Twitter and Facebook to keep up-to-date on their gun violence prevention work. Read more about the concept of Originalism here . You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, October 31, 2023
Fight for Your Right to Access Abortion Through Your Union
In the wake of the Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade , abortion access has become dependent on one’s location. Accessing an abortion involves considerations like employer-sponsored healthcare coverage and taking time off of work. Barbara Camens , union side labor attorney, sits down to talk with us about the importance of access to affordable, comprehensive reproductive health care as part of the collective bargaining process. 25 million women if reproductive age now live in a state that bans or severely restricts abortion. In order to access abortion care, people need to travel to other states, which includes taking time off of work, possibly taking time off of work on short notice, incurring significantly higher medical costs under employer healthcare coverage, and more. As terms and conditions of employment, this means employers should be required to bargain in good faith with unions. Links Why & How to Form a Union Abortion Model Collective Bargaining Agreement Language Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Take Action If you are a member of a union, hold your union accountable for safeguarding legal, accessible abortion access and ensure that the issue is taken up in the collective bargaining process. If you are not a member of a union, think about unions as obvious allies in the fight for progressive change. Alliances can be made between the labor movement and the reproductive rights movement, and tapping into that power can result in powerful change. Call on friends in the labor movement or reach out to people in the labor movement to have these discussions. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social :
Tue, October 24, 2023
Anti-Trans Advocates Are Following the Anti-Abortion Playbook Play for Play
The culture of fear that the anti-abortion movement uses also underlines the anti-queer and anti-transgender movement. Garnet Henderson , Senior Multiplatform Reporter for Rewire News Group and host and producer of ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion, sits down to talk with us about how these two movements are connected and how anti-rights actors may influence access to gender-affirming care in the near future. A year since the dismantling of Roe v. Wade , 25 million women of reproductive age now and more nonbinary and transgender people live in states where the law increases barriers to abortion care. And, across the U.S. this year alone, 583 bills have been introduced in 49 states which are designed to block trans people from receiving healthcare, education, and other basic rights. Harassment and threats against healthcare providers, misinformation and disinformation, and fear-laden rhetoric are all increasingly overlapping elements of the anti-abortion and anti-trans movement. Using these tools, a collection of anti-rights actors are able to influence legislation, spread false information, and impact people’s access to basic healthcare. Links Garnet Henderson on Twitter Garnet Henderson for Rewire News Group ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion Anti-Trans Activists Are Trying to Scare Gender Care Providers Away Will Conservatives Use the ‘Crisis Pregnancy Center’ Playbook to Attack Trans People? New Human Rights Campaign Foundation Report: Online Hate & Real World Violence Are Inextricably Linked Open Letter by New York Times contributors to New York Times on their coverage of transgender issues Take Action Combat misinformation about transgender individuals and abortion care in your inner circles. If you hear people spreading stigma, fear, and mis- and disinformation about people and healthcare, challenge them. Donate to mutual aid funds or any individual’s personal GoFundMe for gender affirming care. If you live in a state that is challenging gender affirming care, show up to testify in person or reach out to your local legislature to combat any harmful legislation. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 <a rel="payment" h
Tue, October 17, 2023
The Fight for Medical Privacy in Latin America and Its Implications for Abortion Rights
The Green Wave movement has swept through Latin America and has increased the liberalization of abortion law. Still, criminalization, and medical privacy and medical secrecy concerns can impact someone’s access to care or have patients and professionals facing prison sentences. Gloria Orrego-Hoyos, fellow with the Health and Human Rights initiative at Georgetown Law’s O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law, sits down to talk with us about the status of criminalization, medical privacy and medical secrecy when it comes to abortion across Latin America. Some Latin American regions criminalize abortion to the extreme. In El Salvador, abortion carries a charge of “aggravated homicide” and can punished by up to 30 years in prison, while in Nicaragua, those who access an abortion face a sentence of up to two years in prison, with medical professionals facing sentences of up to six years in prison for administering care. Some medical professionals feel pressure to, and do end up, reporting abortions to the police. Many doctors are also afraid to provide care until the most dangerous point, due to the shadow of the criminal system. Links Gloria Orrego-Hoyos on Twitter Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Take Action Follow Gloria on Twitter to stay up-to-date on her incredible work. You can also follow the O’Neill Institute here . If you ever find yourself on the other end of criminalization for accessing abortion care, you can contact the Repro Legal Helpline and the If/When/How’s Repro Legal Defense Fund . Try to have conversations in your homes, in your places of work, and with your friends about abortion and access to basic healthcare in an effort to break stigma. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Ba
Tue, October 10, 2023
Let's Talk About Why Gestational Bans and Exceptions Need To Go
Abortions later in pregnancy can occur for a variety of reasons, and the later in pregnancy an abortion is needed, the more barriers patients face in accessing care. Many people in the U.S. who are seeking an abortion are also struggling to piece together resources to pay for care which pushes the timeline for access back farther each week. Dr. Diane Horvath , OBGYN, and Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Partners in Abortion Care, sits down to talk with us about the truths and misconceptions about abortions later in pregnancy. Gestational bans and “exceptions” within abortion law are common barriers that prevent people who are early in their pregnancy from accessing care and increase stigma. These barriers disproportionately impact those who are already most marginalized in accessing abortion care—including BIPOC, LGBTQI+ folks, young people, people with disabilities, and more. No matter what, abortion is healthcare and should be accessible when it is required. No one other than the pregnant person should be able to make a decision about when they access an abortion, especially if external factors have proved difficult to hurdle. Links Dr. Diane Horvath on Twitter Partners in Abortion Care Partners in Abortion Care Merchandise Brigid Alliance Midwest Access Coalition Who Not When Take Action Follow Dr. Horvath on Twitter and stay up-to-date on her work. Buy super cute swag that supports Partners in Abortion Care. If you can, give money to abortion funds . They are facilitating not only abortion care, but support in accessing that care. You can also fundraise for your local funds, too! Hold your local elected officials accountable. Reproductive health, rights, and justice is directly intertwined with a plethora of issue areas, many of which elected officials vote on. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Em
Tue, October 03, 2023
Hannah Matthews on Her New Book, You or Someone You Love: Reflections from an Abortion Doula
As an abortion care worker and doula, Hannah Matthews has seen a plethora of abortion journeys and responses. And while statistically nearly everyone knows someone who has or will access an abortion in their lifetime, one-note narratives bolster assumptions and we are awash in a sea of anti-abortion stigma. Hannah Matthews , abortion clinic worker, community care worker, doula, and author, sits down to talk with us about her new book, You or Someone You Love: Reflections from an Abortion Doula , and how to better support those accessing abortion. Feelings on abortion can be varied. Hannah offers up a guide to the emotional and physical realities of providing true and flexible support to people accessing abortion. The book offers real abortion stories, highlighting a genuinely diverse landscape of abortion care across gender, race, and class lines. In addition, we talk about maintaining hope in the seemingly constant fight for abortion rights. Links You or Someone You Love: Reflections from an Abortion Doula Hannah Matthews on Twitter Birthing Advocacy Doula Trainings Cornerstone All Options Exhale Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Take Action Follow Hannah on Twitter and her website stay up-to-date on her work. Find You or Someone You Love: Reflections from an Abortion Doula on bookshop.org. If you are interested in becoming an abortion doula, familiarize yourself with the reproductive justice needs in your community through being in contact with your local abortion fund and abortion clinics. Look into abortion doula trainings that may be connected to your local funds. Birthing Advocacy Doula Trainings and Cornerstone feature helpful training and reso
Tue, September 26, 2023
The Impacts of Dobbs Ripple Around the World
The Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade no doubt impacted countless people in the U.S. But there are even some far-reaching impacts in other countries. Bergen Cooper , Director of Policy research with Fòs Feminista, talks to us about a new organizational report that details Dobb’s ripple effects around the world. We also hear from Sharon Vilegwa , Daniel Arango , Dr. Souvik Pyne , and Ijeoma Egwuatu , global partners with Fòs Feminista, about how the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision has resulted in on-the-ground impacts in Colombia, Kenya, India, and Nigeria. After the Dobbs ruling, there has been an increase in misinformation and negative narratives surrounding abortion, as well as the review of safe abortion as a constitutional right in Kenya. In Colombia, anti-rights actors feel empowered by Roe’s overturning. Myths and stigma surrounding safe abortion continues to ramp up in India. Dobbs has been used to support arguments against safe abortion legal guidelines in Nigeria. While Dobbs does not have legal impacts abroad, its effects bolster the anti-abortion and anti-rights movement. LINKS FROM THIS EPISODE Fòs Feminista on Twitter Fòs Feminista on Facebook The Global Impact of the Dobbs Decision on Abortion Laws, Policies, Legislation, Narratives, and Movements: Findings from Colombia, India, Kenya, and Nigeria Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Take Action: Make sure to follow Fòs Feminista on Twitter and Facebook and stay up-to-date on their work. Dive deeper into the new report-- The Global Impact of the Dobbs Decision on Abortion Laws, Policies, Legislation, Narratives, and Movements: Findings from Colombia, India, Kenya, and Nigeria -- featuring reflections from Colombia, Kenya, India, and Nigeria. You might be interested in the Public Health
Tue, September 19, 2023
Lauren Rankin On Her New Book, Bodies on the Line: At the Front Lines of the Fight to Protect Abortion in America
Starting in the late 1970s, people have been serving as clinic escorts at abortion clinics, guarding and protecting patients from anti-abortion protestors. Since then, volunteer clinic escorts have devised several strategies for making sure patients access the care they need and continue to use their bodies as shields against anti-abortion protestors every day. Lauren Rankin , writer, consultant, and author of Bodies on the Line , sits down to talk with us about the history of clinic escorting and the continued need for such a vital community-based practice. Anti-abortion protestors often camp out in front of abortion clinics, where they harass, threaten, and attempt to coerce those who are attending appointments. Clinic escorting has often involved walking the patient to the door, standing between a patient and a protestor, and calming a patient through conversation. Unfortunately, the federal government has shown time and time again that meaningful abortion protections will be challenging to pass. But there is hope—you can push local elected officials in your community to recognize the importance of abortion care. Find Lauren Rankin’s book at your local bookstore or on bookshop.org . Links Bodies on the Line Lauren Rankin on Twitter The Clinic Vest Project Washington Area Clinic Defense Task Force Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Take Action Check out Lauren’s book, Bodies on the Line, here ! You can also keep up with Lauren’s work but following her on Twitter . Rally for abortion protections in your community. If you are interested in becoming a clinic escort and you live in a state where abortion is still legal, reach out to your local clinic and see if there is a pre-existing escort group. If not, make your own! You can also contact the abortion fund near you and see if there is anything
Trailer · Tue, September 12, 2023
"rePROs Fight Back" trailer
Love Podcasts? Love bodily autonomy? Want to get engaged in the fight for sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice? Then this is the podcast for you. Each episode host Jennie Wetter has a guest on to do a deep dive into issues ranging from abortion, birth control, trans rights, abortion, child marriage, sex education, LGBTQ+ rights, and did we mention abortion. Join us to learn more about the fight for sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice and what you can do to fight back. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, September 05, 2023
The Sharp Increase in Reproductive Violence Post-Dobbs
Trigger Warning: In this episode we talk about intimate partner violence. If you need help or to talk to someone you can call or chat the National Domestic Violence Hotline at https://www.thehotline.org/ 1-800-799-SAFE or the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) at https://www.rainn.org/ 1-800-656-HOPE. Over the course of a single year, more than 12 million people are victims of intimate partner violence in the United States. In the year since the Dobbs decision that overturned Roe v. Wade , the National Domestic Violence Hotline has seen a 98 percent increase in survivors mentioning reproductive coercion as part of their experience as compared to the year before . Marium Durrani , Vice President of Policy at the National Domestic Violence Hotline sits down to talk with us about the rise of intimate partner violence and domestic violence after the overturning of Roe . Reproductive coercion, violence, or abuse involves behaviors that intend to maintain power and control related to reproductive health in a relationship. When this type of abuse occurs, an individual’s ability to control their own life, body, and safety is called into question. This type of abuse has greatly increased since the Dobbs decision, and the ability to access sexual and reproductive healthcare-- including abortion-- faces more barriers. Interference by a partner to be economically independent, move freely, and communicate freely, may also prevent a person from accessing care. Links National Domestic Violence Hotline on Twitter National Domestic Violence Hotline on Facebook Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Take Action Follow the National Domestic Violence Hotline on Twitter and Facebook . If you are experiencing intimate partner violence, domestic violence, or reproductive violence, you can reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline via call 1-800-799-SAFE, text to 88788, or chat on the website. Find more information here . If you can, donate to your local or nation
Tue, August 22, 2023
The New Dept. of Defense Abortion Policy and the Anti-Abortion Backlash
There have been and continue to be significant bans on abortion in the military (with limited exceptions), through TRICARE and at military treatment facilities. This means most military service members and dependents who need abortion care cannot access it through the military. Jackii Wang , Senior Legislative Analyst with the National Women’s Law Center, sits down to talk with us about a new policy memorandum that expands abortion access for military service members and their dependents. Post Dobbs , the Department of Defense and the Biden administration have announced a number of changes, some of which have gone into effect. These include providing travel and transportation allowances for traveling off base for an abortion, standardizing “administrative absence,” and extending the deadline to disclose a pregnancy to a commander. These policies have been met with fierce backlash from anti-abortion actors, including those in the Senate who are upholding nominations for military posts. Links FAQ: Actions by the Dept. of Defense to Protect Abortion and Reproductive Health Care Access for Military Families National Women’s Law Center on Facebook National Women’s Law Center on Twitter Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Take Action Follow the National Women’s Law Center on Twitter and Facebook . Have conversations with people in your life about the news surrounding abortion and the military. As politicians continue to attack access, discuss why it’s important to continue to protect care. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsk
Tue, August 08, 2023
How has the Work of Abortion Funds Changed Post-Roe?
Patients needed abortion funds even before the fall of Roe v. Wade in order to access care, but those needs have skyrocketed after Dobbs and as the abortion access landscape becomes more fractured. Tyler Barbarin , Director of Grants and Development for the Louisiana Abortion Fund, sits down to talk with us about how abortion funds are working overtime to help people access the care they need in the United States. An abortion fund acts as mutual aid, facilitating and providing access to logistical help for those seeking abortion care. Before the fall of Roe , abortion was still incredibly difficult to access in multiple regions of the country. Abortion funds coordinated logistics, organized travel, scheduled appointments, counseled patients before and after medical visits, and fundraised for access costs. In the current legal environment, abortion funds and their ability to assist patients varies from state-to-state. In Louisiana, for example, abortion is illegal, so abortion funds in the state may look like coordinating travel to and care in states where abortion access is still possible. The logistical, informational, and financial barriers that people now face are astronomically larger due to multi-state travel being introduced to the abortion access landscape. Many—particularly cisgendered, straight white women—will have the resources and support to access an abortion even in environments that make it increasingly difficult to do so. Those who are most impacted by abortion-restrictive registration are BIPOC folks, those with limited or low incomes, and those who are already parents. And, despite abortion fund’s best efforts to assist, some barriers to abortion care will now be completely insurmountable to some, especially those who are most marginalized. Links Louisiana Abortion Fund Louisiana Abortion Fund on Twitter Louisiana Abortion Fund on Facebook The South Has the Answers Louisiana Abortion Fund’s 2022 Annual Report Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund You might be interested in the Public Health
Tue, July 25, 2023
A Birth Control Pill Will Soon Be Available Over the Counter. Yes, Really!
On July 13th, 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Opill, a progestin-only birth control pill, for over-the-counter sale. The United States will now join over 100 countries where birth control pills are available without a prescription. Victoria Nichols , Project Director with Free the Pill, sits down to talk to us about what this approval means for birth control equity and access for those in the US. Currently in the United States, over the counter birth control is still not available on the shelves (but it will occur soon!). Up until that point becomes a reality, patients have had to navigate a prescription model, meaning that providers must prescribe birth control during an in-person appointment at a healthcare facility. This model has always featured barriers to access, requiring a patient to take time off work, find transportation, pay co-pays or out-of-pocket costs, and more. Efforts to move away from the prescription model and make the birth control pill available over-the-counter have been decades in the making, featuring youth activists, medical providers, and reproductive justice advocates working in coalition. The FDA approval is a reflection and culmination of this dedicated, long-term work. Now that the FDA has decided that the birth control pill can be accessed over-the-counter, this softens many barriers to access. People seeking the birth control pill will not have to make an appointment with a doctor, wait months for that appointment, seek time off school and work, or worry about the costs of a doctor’s visit. It is expected the birth control pill will be available on-the-shelf in early 2024. Links Free the Pill on Twitter Free the Pill on Facebook Advocates for Youth’s Free the Pill Youth Council Take Action Items First and foremost, follow Free the Pill on Twitter and Facebook and stay up-to-date on their amazing work. You can also sign up for email updates from Free the Pill here . Advocates for Youth features a Free the Pill Youth Council , which works in communities across the country to expand access to an affordable birth control pill. Talk to people in your life about birth control, health equity, and the importance of eliminating barriers to access! You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 <a rel="payment" href="https://www.reprosfightback.com/take-action
Tue, July 11, 2023
The U.S. is on the Wrong Side of Global Abortion Trends
Abortion rates around the world have stayed the same since the 1990s—except in countries where abortion restrictions have been newly introduced. Tarah Demant , Interim National Director of Programs, Advocacy and Government Affairs at Amnesty International USA, sits down to talk with us about the countries that have recently introduced abortion restrictions, the countries that have protected abortion care for decades, and what the future of global abortion access looks like moving forward. The Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case that overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022 was a major loss for abortion rights. Even still, in the last 50 years, there is an unmistakable trend of the liberalization of abortion laws across the world. In fact, the vast majority of countries permit abortion in at least some circumstance, and these countries continue to move toward further liberalization of abortion laws. In all, 60 countries have liberalized their abortion laws, with only four countries having rolled back their abortion laws since 1994. The countries that have rolled back abortion laws include the United States, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Poland. In each of these countries, maternal deaths rates, criminalization of people seeking healthcare, and rapidly spreading chilling effects among providers, has increased. The Dobbs case has been and will continue be used as a framework for general anti-rights policy around the world. Similarly, the U.S.’ narrative lead on anti-abortion ideology has the ability to influence other countries’ narratives and political confidence to pass equally restrictive laws. Dobbs and its ideology has also coincided with an emboldening of the global anti-gender and anti-LGBTQI+ movement. Links Tarah Demant on Twitter Amnesty International USA on Twitter Amnesty International USA on Facebook Fos Feminista Fact Sheet: The Global Impact of the Dobbs Decision Take Action Items Follow Amnesty International on Twitter and Facebook . Stay engaged and take heart. The majority of people around the world—3 out of 5—believe that abortion should be legal. Talk about abortion, how it’s normal, safe, healthcare and a human right. If you have money to give, give to an abortion fund ! If donating isn’t an option, figure out a way to become involved—whether going to events, volunteering, or more! Reach out to your local council members and elected officials, and make sure they know that abort
Tue, June 27, 2023
One Year Ago We Lost the Right to Abortion: Where Are We Now?
June 24th, 2023 marked one-year since the overturning of Roe v. Wade via the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court case. Between July and December 2022, an estimated 66,000 people have not been able to access abortion care in their home state. Becca Andrews , reporter at Reckon News and author of No Choice: The Destruction of Roe v. Wade and the Fight to Protect a Fundamental American Right , talks to us about the myriad of ways in which the abortion landscape has changed in the past year, including the ways anti-abortion ideology has led to a chipping away at democracy. The lives of providers, clinic staff, patients, abortion storytellers, abortion fund workers, reproductive health, rights, and justice advocates and reporters have changed dramatically in the past year. In abortion hostile states, many providers and clinic staff have been prevented from providing care or are hesitant to provide care due to vague legal limits. Reporters like Becca, who follow stories on abortion access and care, are being silenced algorithmically on social media. Abortion fund workers scramble, against extreme time frames and travel requirements, to put together funding for procedures and transportation. The denial of human rights is leading to a steady building of authoritarianism. States are telling patients and doctors what care they can access or provide, newsrooms (particularly those that are local and state-based) are shrinking, and mis-and disinformation is rapidly spreading (Reminder: the disinformation that informs anti-abortion sentiment also informs the anti-LGBTQI+, anti-democracy, and anti-science sentiment). Without access to information and up-to-date news or social media, people do not have immediate interaction with necessary knowledge and the national conversation is stifled more broadly. This prevents them from fully realizing their human right to sexual and reproductive health care. Take Action Follow Becca Andrews on Twitter , find her pieces on Reckon News , and check out her book . Set up reoccurring donations to BIPOC- and low-income and queer-led abortion funds. These grassroots organizations are providing safe, dependable mutual aid for those who are particularly in need. Support organizations like We Testify , who are erasing abortion stigma one story at a time. As appropriations season ramps up, tell your Congress members that reproductive health and rights is funded—that UNFPA, Title X, in
Bonus · Tue, June 20, 2023
A Human Rights Crisis: Uganda's New Anti-LGBTQ+ Law
At the end of May, Uganda’s president signed into law a piece of legislation that criminalizes the LGBTQI+ community it includes that death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality,” creates new crimes around “promotion of homosexuality,” and 10 years in prison for attempted same-sex conduct. Ophelia Kemigisha , human rights lawyer and feminist activist from Uganda, and Beirne Roose-Snyder, Senior Policy Fellow for the Council for Global Equality, sit down to talk with us about Uganda’s new anti-LGBTQI+ law and what human rights advocates can do to work against it. Many evangelical, conservative American organizations and activists have been working in Uganda to plant the seeds for this recent, horrific law. An anti-homosexuality bill in the country in 2013 (which included the death penalty provision) began a U.S.-discussion on human rights and American involvement in Uganda. The law was repealed due to technical language— not substance—and since then, conservative American and Ugandan actors have continued crafting anti-LGBTQI+ legislation and contributing to extreme stigmatization. For a deeper dive on the global anti-gender movement, find the past podcast with Beirne here . New to this bill, though, include the criminalization of the “promotion” and “normalization” of homosexuality; this includes, for example, seven years in prison for providing housing to those who you know are gay. The law also lumps in the ability to love a partner of one’s own choice with harrowing crimes, including sexual assault. Misinformation surrounding this bill has been rife, and real harm is currently taking place in Uganda. People are afraid to speak and live openly; patients with HIV are scared to approach healthcare providers for treatment; healthcare professionals are scared to interact with the LGBTQI+ community. It is the responsibility of human rights advocates to hold the line and clearly communicate that this legislation is unconscionable. Legislation like Uganda’s is not happening in a vacuum; pushes for similar laws are happening across the African continent and across the world. As a human rights activist, make noise about how urgent it is to fight this bill—it is a domino. Links Convening for Equality Twitter Convening for Equality’s Statement after Uganda’s Passage of The Anti-LGBTQI+ Law The Council for Global Equality on Twitter The Council for Global Equality on Facebook <a href='https://www.reprosfightback.com/episodes-blog/a-d
Tue, June 13, 2023
In the Year Post-Dobbs, Anti-Abortion Violence Has Increased
One year after the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case that served as the platform for Roe v. Wade’s overturning, 15 states have now banned all or most abortions. Garnet Henderson , Senior Multiplatform Reporter for Rewire News Group and host and producer of ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion, sits down to talk with us about the country-wide need for abortion care and violence against providers and clinics, all of which has increased since last June. The 15 states that have banned all or most abortions are the bans that are currently in effect, with others likely to go into effect in the coming year. For people in the South and Midwest, where it was already more difficult to get an abortion, access to abortion care requires driving hundreds of miles or taking a flight. With abortion access curtailed, maternal mortality will rise--especially for Black mothers, who are in the midst of a maternal mortality crisis caused by racism in the U.S. health system. Since Roe’s overturning, there has been a marked increase in assault, battery, stalking, bomb threats, bioterrorism threats, clinic invasions, and obstruction. Responses from law enforcement continues to be insufficient. The focus must be on pregnant people currently navigating a near impossible situation. Mis- and dis-information being spread by anti-abortion groups, violence against clinics and providers, and silence from major medical is only making it worse. Links Garnet Henderson on Twitter Garnet Henderson for Rewire News Group ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion Video Reveals Anti-Abortion Groups Expected ‘Dobbs’ Backlash That Never Came Anti-Abortion and Fascist Violence Are One and the Same. Clinics Are Paying the Price. Take Action Follow Garnet Henderson on Twitter and Rewire News Group and stay up-to-date with her publications. You can also find ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion here . Get plugged in with your local abortion fund ! Follow them on social media (don’t call their hotline, please! That’s for patients). Donate and volunteer when needed. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 <a rel="p
Tue, May 30, 2023
A Closer Look at the Court Cases that Expanded Abortion Access in Mexico and Colombia
Since the start of the Green Wave movement, multiple countries across Latin America have liberalized their abortion laws . Ivonne Garza , Senior Associate at the O’Neill Institute for National Global Health Law at Georgetown University Law Center and Natialia Acevedo Guerrero , Senior Consultant with the Health and Human Rights Initiative at the O’Neill Institute, sit down to talk with us about recent court cases in Colombia and Mexico and how they have expanded access to abortion care across the region. The Green Wave , a liberal feminist movement which started in Argentina, increased mobilization in 2020 to decriminalize and destigmatize abortion across multiple countries in Latin America. This social movement paved the way for leaders to take abortion considerations to the top courts and set the groundwork for judicial and legislative change. In September 2021, three court cases changed the legal framework for abortion in the Federation of Mexico. The first case addressed the constitutionality of abortion regulations on states’ criminal codes and recognized the right to choose “without exception,” which includes abortion, sex education, family planning decision making, and more. The second case ruled that states were not allowed to regulate protections to the right to life that go beyond what the Mexican Constitution currently outlines. Lastly, the third case analyzed “conscientious objection” in the healthcare system and ruled it an individual right of medical personnel, but also that it could be limited to protect other fundamental rights. In 2006, Colombia’s court referred to abortion in a favorable way. In this year, abortion was decriminalized in moments of when the pregnant person’s health and life at risk, pregnancy as a result of rape and incest, and when the fetus is incompatible with life. In 2022, the Colombian Court studied a new lawsuit that asked for the complete decriminalization of abortion in the country. Through four arguments, including 1) the proportionality of abortion criminalization; 2) the freedom and conscious of women and reproductive decisions; 3) the criminalization of abortion and the right to equality; and 4) the preventative purpose of criminal law, the Court concluded that the criminalization of abortion was in tension with the country’s affirmed right to health and reproductive rights. Both countries provide an opportunity for U.S. advocates to learn. By studying the history of Mexican and Colombian Court decisions, U.S. leaders can take away elements related to discrimination, equality, intersectional approaches, and legal frameworks that may be helpful for the fight for abortion rights at home. Links O’Neill Institute on Twitter
Tue, May 16, 2023
Just Let Trans Girls Play Sports
More than half of states in the United States have banned transgender women and girls from female sports, including at the middle and high school age. Katelyn Burns , columnist for MSNBC and Xtra Magazine and co-host of the podcast Cancel Me Daddy , sits down with us to talk about a new Title IX rule proposed by the Biden administration and what it covers—and doesn’t cover—when it comes to the protection of trans students. Around the US, states have been increasingly introducing and passing legislation that singles out transgender women and girls and prevents them from playing on sports teams. In Kentucky, for example, the only 11-year-old trans girl playing a school sport in the entire state helped to start a girl’s field hockey team at her school; the state’s ban on trans athletes now singularly impacts her, preventing her completely from playing on the team that she created. During the Obama administration, Title IX for the very first time included guidance on transgender students, which stated that educational and recreational opportunities (including sports) cannot be denied to transgender students that would be given to cisgender students. Guidance under the Trump administration was revised to be more unhelpful and discriminatory. Now, the Biden administration has revised the guidelines; unlike the Obama-era guidelines, these guidelines do include exclusions for trans girls playing sports against cisgender girls. This guidance does make it more difficult for states to institute blanket sports bans, but still does not explicitly disavow discrimination against transgender students. Links Katelyn Burns on Twitter Cancel Me Daddy on Twitter Katelyn Burns on MSNBC Katelyn Burns on Xtra Magazine Katelyn Burns: The massive Republican push to ban trans athletes, explained Katelyn Burns: The unfalsifiability of the anti-trans sports movement Katelyn Burns: Biden’s Hollow Trans Sports Policy Appeases The Right Take Action Items First and foremost, follow Katelyn Burns on Twitter . You can also find more information on Katelyn’s co-hosted podcast, Cancel Me Daddy, here . Challenge your own perspectives on transgender student’s participation in sports. Consider the last time you heard o
Tue, May 02, 2023
Overcoming Barriers to Ensure Access to Reproductive Health Care in Vietnam
During the last three decades, Vietnam’s general public has achieved an all-time high in contraceptive prevalence rates. However, many still face barriers in accessing their choice of contraceptive methods or provider. Hang Nguyen , Country Director for Marie Stopes International (MSI) Reproductive Choices in Vietnam, sits down to talk with us about those who are most impacted by these obstacles and how MSI is working to overcome them. MSI, a UK-based non-profit, specializes in and delivers sexual and reproductive health care and family planning in 37 countries. MSI’s Vietnam program began in 1989, and continues to deliver reproductive healthcare—including contraceptive, abortion, and diagnosis, prevention, and treatment services—to more than 200,000 patients a year, including ethnic-minorities, factory workers, and young people; MSI Vietnam’s factory program brings SRHR care and services to factory workers in more than 80 factories in the Ho Chi Minh area. Contraception is not yet covered by Vietnam’s national health service, and while anyone can technically access contraception from any pharmacy or health clinic, factory workers still see very low rates of usage. This is often attributed to factory worker’s schedule of long and demanding hours, costs of new contraceptive methods, and travel time for those in remote, mountainous areas. MSI has developed and launched a service voucher program to facilitate young women and girls, as well as factory workers, to access contraceptive services at a time convenient to them. Links MSI United States MSI Vietnam MSI on Twitter MSI on Facebook Take Action Follow MSI on Twitter and Facebook . You can also find information on MSI Vietnam here . Donate to MSI and help keep this work going. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com <a href='https:/
Tue, April 18, 2023
Pre-Dobbs, Many Stories of Suffering Came from Catholic Hospitals. Now, They're Everywhere.
Catholic hospitals and existing religious restrictions on abortion are currently co-existing with post- Roe abortion bans across the U.S. And, in states where abortion is still accessible, Catholic hospitals are still a sizable barrier to accessing compassionate, evidence-based medical care. Amy Littlefield , Abortion Access Correspondent at the Nation, sits down with us to discuss how trauma previously seen at Catholic hospitals when trying to access sexual and reproductive healthcare is now being seen on a more general scale. Catholic hospitals up 1 in 6 acute-care hospital beds and generally follow rules written by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. These rules ban abortion, fail to promote or condone contraceptive practices, ban direct sterilization of men and women, and deny care to transgender patients. Patients often don’t know they requesting care from a Catholic hospital, or that the few hospitals in their area have a religious affiliation or have merged with health systems that have a religious affiliation. For a deeper dive into care offered by Catholic hospitals, find the past podcast episode here . Before the overturning of Roe , stories out of Catholic or religiously affiliated hospitals included patients having to wait in extreme pain while ethics review boards debated termination, patients having to demonstrate that they were “sick enough” or “deserving enough” for appropriate care, and more. Post- Roe , similar stories are being reported—more generally—at an alarming frequency around the country. Five women in Texas, who were pregnant with wanted pregnancies, were subjected to varying degrees of state-sanctioned torture as they sought necessary abortion care. The Center for Reproductive Rights is currently suing the state on their behalf. Savita Halappanavar died in Ireland after being denied an abortion and developing sepsis as a result. Medical systems waiting for pregnant patients to be “sick enough” or “close enough to death,” endangers and kills people who need and have a right to basic healthcare, including abortion. Links The Southern Hospitals Report: Faith, Culture, and Abortion Bans in the US South A Miscarrying Woman Nearly Died After a Catholic Hospital Sent Her Home Three Times <a href='https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/04/10/pprom-florida-abortion-ban/?pwapi_token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWJpZCI6IjM3OTM0MzkiLCJyZWFzb24iOiJnaWZ0IiwibmJmIjoxNjgxMDk5MjAwLCJpc3MiOiJzdWJzY3JpcHRpb25zIiwiZXhwIjoxNjgyMzk1MTk5LCJpYXQiOjE2ODEwOTkyMDAsImp0aSI6IjE2MjgwODNkLTliY2ItNDA1Yy04NzM5LTE1ZWYwNGRiZTVmMyIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lndhc2hpbmd0b25
Bonus · Tue, April 11, 2023
Emergency Pod: Explaining the Chaos of the Recent Mifepristone Rulings
On Friday, April 8, 2023, Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk issued an unprecedented ruling out of Texas that has the ability to impact medication abortion access nationwide. Mark Joseph Stern , senior writer at Slate covering courts and the law, sits down to talk to us about the recent ruling on mifepristone, what the FDA can do, and what this currently means for medication abortion access in the U.S. The Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. The FDA was overseen by Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk, who has a vast history of anti-LGBTQ+, anti-reproductive health and rights rulings, including blocking contraceptive access for Texas teens under the Title X program on the grounds of parental religious objection. For a deep-dive into the case itself, you can find more information in our recent podcast episode . Never before has a federal judge claimed the authority to revoke or suspend the FDA’s approval for a drug. This ruling has also positioned the pharmaceutical industry to become much more involved in conversations surrounding abortion rights, due to their recognition of the threat at the core of this ruling—that endless cases could attempt to block medications on the hypothetical grounds that they could harm somebody else’s patient in the future. This precedent undoubtedly threatens gender-affirming medications and other medications, as well. The decision included a number of anti-science, anti-medicine rhetoric to justify the ruling. The complication rate of medication abortion is incredibly low, and the serious complication rate is near zero. Yet Judge Kacsmaryk cited a “study” funded by an anti-abortion, far-right institute claiming mifepristone causes harm to patients. Judge Kacsmaryk used language rooted in “fetal personhood,” throughout the ruling. In addition, Judge Kacsmaryk referenced the Comstock Act—an antiquated, Victorian-era law that banned the mailing of “sexual materials, birth control, or abortion-causing drugs” and is very carefully applied to avoid unconstitutionality –in the ruling to support his claims. Judge Thomas Rice’s ruling out of Washington state ruled that the FDA continue allowing mifepristone in the 17 states and D.C. which brought the case, leading to a stay on the FDA’s ability to alter mifepristone’s status while deliberation occurred, and resulting in a preemptive measure intended to conflict with Kacsmaryk’s decision. The FDA is now under two competing court orders. The FDA does have enforcement discretion, meaning even if Judge Kacsmaryk’s stay goes into effect, it may not have to necessarily mean that the FDA has to comply. Links AidAccess.org <a href='https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2023/04/matthew-kacsmaryk-mifepristone-medication-abortion-s
Tue, April 04, 2023
The Global Gag Rule May be Gone (For Now) But Its Harm Continues
The Global Gag Rule (GGR) prevents foreign non-governmental organizations that receive U.S. foreign assistance funds from providing, advocating for, counseling on, or referring for abortion services even when done with their non-U.S. funds. Bergen Cooper, Director of Policy Research at Fòs Feminista and Kat Olivera, Associate Director for U.S. Global Policy at Fòs Feminista, sit down to talk to us about the unmitigated harm caused by the GGR and why permanent repeal of this rule is needed immediately. The Global Gag Rule, or the Mexico City Policy as introduced in 1984 by President Ronald Raegan, which is a presidential memorandum that is either reinstated or revoked depending on party lines. During the Trump administration, the Global Gag Rule was expanded and rebranded as the Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance Policy, and Biden revoked the GGR early in his tenure. Still, even when the GGR is not in effect, it can be impactful. When the policy is put into place, purposeful communications are made to ensure cooperation; when the policy is revoked, communications are one-off. In fact, Fòs Feminista’s research team found an alarming breakdown in communication between the U.S. government and relevant global stakeholders. It was found that, this particularly damaging game of telephone resulted in the prolonging of the policy’s implementation and unnecessarily prevented people from accessing legal abortions. The Global Health, Empowerment, and Rights Act (The Global HER Act) is a bicameral piece of legislation that would repeal the Global Gag Rule permanently. The overturning of Roe v. Wade has the potential to embolden anti-abortion policies like the GGR, which is why it’s important to take advantage of our remaining time left with the Biden administration, the Senate majority, and the House to continue priming the Global Her Act and permanent repeal of the GGR. Especially when many countries’ own national laws and policies permit for the funding and provision of abortion care, the United States’ restriction of providers speech and services abroad is racist and unconscionable. The failure of the administration, Congress, and other government actors to monitor for and ensure compliance with the GGR revocation and provide clear communication only perpetuates the policy’s harm. Links Fòs Feminista on Twitter Fòs Feminista on Facebook Information on Reintroduction of the Global HER Act Fòs Feminista’s report Chaos Continues: The 2021 Revocation of the Global Gag Rule and The Need for Permanent Repeal The Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Index Take Action<
Tue, March 21, 2023
Connecting the Dots Between SRHR and Gender Equality
Gender inequality can lead to women and girl’s having lower income and educational attainment and decreased autonomy and political power. Bridget Kelly , Director of Research for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights at the Population Institute, sits down to talk with us about the report Connecting the Dots: Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights as Prerequisites for Global Gender Equality and Empowerment and how the empowerment and advancement of the rights of women and girls is explicitly tied to sexual and reproductive health and rights. According to Fòs Feminista, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) refers to comprehensive family planning and contraceptive services (including emergency contraception, maternal health, prevention and treatment of infertility, safe abortion and post-abortion care, prevention, care, and treatment, of STIs, HIV, and AIDS (and reproductive health cancers and infections) and the prevention and treatment of gender-based violence (including the elimination of harmful practices like female genital mutilation and cutting and child, early, and forced marriage). All of these elements must be met in order for comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare to be fully realized and for gender equality to be advanced worldwide. The empowerment and advancement of rights of women and girls is an agreed upon global sustainable development goal, and, as the largest funder and implementer of worldwide global health assistance the U.S. plays an incredibly important role in advancing these outcomes. Still, U.S. policymakers often fail to recognize that this goal is impacted by the accessibility of comprehensive SRHR. U.S. support for various components of the SRHR agenda flows through multiple budget and appropriation channels, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact current expenditure for SRHR. But, examining funding levels for the current family planning and reproductive health (FP/RH) funding program shows that there should be a commitment of $1.74 billion to international family planning and reproductive health programming, including $116 million to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). FP/RH programming, for the last 13 years, has been flat funded at $608 million. The Biden administration’s budget request, released in mid-March of 2023, shows an increase to roughly $657.5 million. While the current administration recognizes the need for FP/RH funding, it isn’t enough to meet the need. Unfortunately, there was not a request to pull back the Helms amendment , which dictates that U.S. government foreign assistance funds cannot be used for “the performance of abortion as a method of family planning.” Links <a href='https://www.populationinstitute.org/resource/connecting-the-dots-sexual
Tue, March 07, 2023
Can One Fringe Judge Really Eliminate Medication Abortion in the US?
Medication abortion is safer than Tylenol, and it’s certainly safer than carrying a pregnancy to term. So why is there a case out of Texas that claims medication abortion is dangerous and must be banned? Jessica Mason Pieklo, Senior Vice President and Executive Editor at Rewire News Group and Co-Host of the Boom! Lawyered podcast, sits down to talk with us about the frivolous framework of this case and how it threatens nationwide access to abortion pills. The Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. The FDA is out of the northern district of Texas, where anti-abortion advocates are arguing that, 20 years after the fact that the Food and Drug Administration has ruled on the safety and efficacy of mifepristone (one of two drugs used in a medication abortion), the drug is in fact dangerous and must be pulled from the market. This case sits in front of Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk , a Trump-appointed judge who has a vast history of anti-LGBTQ+, anti-reproductive health and rights rulings, including blocking contraception access for Texas teens under the Title X program on the grounds of parental religious objection. This case has the potential to reach into abortion-protective states by prohibiting the FDA from keeping the drug on the market, meaning your location in California, Washington, New York, or other like-minded states will not protect you from this direct attack on medication abortion. The introduction and legitimization of this case creates confusion about the status of abortion access in one’s state, leading many to not feel that they can access care. There is also a likelihood that the FDA can ignore this ruling and be within their rights to do so; the FDA’s enforcement power is discretionary and has the power itself to approve and remove drugs from the market—a power that federal courts do not hold. Anti-abortion advocacy groups are also attempting to block abortion providers (using intentionally vague language) like Plan C, Aid Access, and Choix, from providing abortion or even education about or advocating for abortion. Links Jessica Mason Pieklo on Twitter Rewire News Group on Twitter Rewire News Group on Facebook FDA Just Made it Easier to Access Medication Abortion Podcast The Texas judge who could take down the abortion pill Boom! Lawyere
Tue, February 21, 2023
State Attacks on Transgender Health and Rights are Out of Control
Less than two months into 2023, 325 bills aimed at the health and rights of transgender folks have been introduced in state legislatures around the country— more bills than the last four legislative years put together. Erin Reed , a queer legislative researcher and activist covering transgender legislation and life around the world, gives us an update on transgender health and rights in America, including what attacks to look out for and actions to take to protect bodily autonomy and human rights. Bans on healthcare for trans youth, drag show bans, systemic abuse in schools, bathroom bills: these are just some of the vicious measures that have impacted the daily health and life of transgender and gender non-conforming Americans. 1/3 of bills introduced this year—97 bills—are designed to limit or ban gender-affirming care for trans youth. Often misrepresented as an interference to serious surgeries for minors, these laws end up restricting life-saving care, such as puberty blockers and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Arkansas, Alabama, Utah, and South Dakota have passed healthcare bans, with many moving through other state legislatures. 20 states have passed bans on transgender youth competing in sports, with 40 similar bills introduced just this year. And, despite anti-rights legislators claiming that their bills introduced to ban drag shows are meant to “protect children”, bills attacking drag shows ultimately stifle “male and female impersonators” or the performance, monologue, or dance of people dressed in clothing opposite to their assigned gender at birth. It’s important to remember that many of the same tactics used in these attacks can be found in attacks to reproductive health and rights. Both the health and rights of trans folks and reproductive health and rights are issues rooted in bodily autonomy that often intersect with each other. The sliver of good news? Even in the harshest state where these bills are being proposed, Democrats are holding the line in protection. Progressive states are continuing to increase support of the transgender community in response to anti-trans legislation around the country. In addition, sports ban bills seem to be losing traction. Links Erin Reed on Twitter Erin Reed on Substack The Anti-Trans State Of The States by Erin Reed AAP Policy Statement Urges Support and Care of Transgender and Gender-Diverse Children and Adolescents You might
Tue, February 07, 2023
Not Everyone is Impacted Equally by Abortion Bans-- Dobbs Made it Much Worse
People’s ability to access healthcare and achieve positive health outcomes should not depend on who they are, but unfortunately, and all too often, it does. In the United States, this is particularly true for Black, brown, Indigenous, and low-income individuals. Abortion is healthcare, and it is just as difficult to access for disproportionally impacted people as other forms of healthcare. Liza Fuentes , Senior Research Scientist with the Guttmacher Institute, talks to us about health inequities in the current healthcare system and how abortion is unequally accessed around the country Even before Roe v. Wade was overturned, there were health inequities in abortion care, which has been true since the founding of this country. Resources that people need to decide if, when, and how to become pregnant and give birth include safe and affordable housing and communities, food and living wages, health insurance, and other elements of reproductive justice . Health disparity data exists mostly for Black, brown, Indigenous, and low-income women, AND it is important to note that anyone who cannot realize their sexual and reproductive health care—including transgender folks, non-binary folks, people living with disabilities, and young people—will then have disparate access to resources, services, and family planning care. This translates into abortion restrictions. Almost 70 abortion clinics in the U.S. have closed since Dobbs overturned Roe , mostly in the South and Midwest. Thousands of people are now in a position where they have to spend thousands of dollars to leave their state, or self-manage an abortion in their state, or continue their pregnancy. Those who are still able to get an abortion in these states include those with high incomes, with access to the most resources (including credit cards, savings account, support systems, time). What are the social identities that define the spectrum along which that money is distributed? Age, class, race, disability, immigration status, and income. The Hyde amendment , one of the most pervasive, restrictive, and disruptive amendments to abortion care, targeted low-income women outright. There are a few examples of protections post- Roe . Many governors and state legislatures—including Illinois, Oregon, New York, and Connecticut— have incorporated abortion rights at into the state constitution. Cities and counties are carving out budgets for abortion access, and even providing medication abortion in public health clinics and departments. Links <a href='https://www.facebook.com/guttm
Tue, January 24, 2023
The FDA Just Made it Easier to Access Medication Abortion (Some Exceptions May Apply)
Recently, the Food and Drug Administration announced that retail pharmacies in the US would be able to receive certification to dispense medication abortion drugs. Greer Donley , Associate Professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, sits down to talk with us about the FDA’s recent changes to regulations around medication abortion, including the current status of access, possible challenges, and how far these new changes really go. Since the FDA approval of mifepristone—one of two medications currently used in a medication abortion—in 2000, access has been harshly regulated. Usually, FDA-approved medications are easily prescribed by licensed providers and dispensed at a pharmacy, but mifepristone faces additional barriers, including a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) protocol. REMS restrictions are reserved for dangerous medication, and include a certification process for the clinician, requires that the medication be dispensed in person in the clinic, hospital, or medical office, and that patients must fill out a consent form. Every major medical association and major expert in the field has branded REMS restrictions for mifepristone completely unnecessary, as it is an incredibly safe drug to take—safer than Penicillin, Viagra, and Tylenol. During the pandemic, the FDA temporarily lifted the in-person restriction, as making people physically go pick-up medication abortion pills put them at unnecessary risk of COVID-19 transmission. The Supreme Court overturned this decision, but the Biden administration’s newly elected FDA Commissioner, in response, announced that they would not enforce the in-person dispensing requirement completely. A few weeks ago, the FDA began formalizing this announcement, laying out the reversal of in-person dispensing requirement and the allowance of some pharmacies to dispense medication abortion after a certification process. These changes will not have any effect in states that currently ban abortion, as state laws will stop pharmacies and prescribers from dispensing mifepristone. Even with the formalization of this rule, it is unclear how many pharmacies will go through the certification process to be able to dispense the drug. In addition, once pharmacies do become certified, patients will still need to find a certified provider to write than a prescription, and states will still have to follow state laws that restrict abortion. There is a current legal challenge working its way through district court which would ban access to mifepristone. This case was incited by an anti-abortion group suing the FDA in Texas in an effort to revive the Comstock Act; this act, passed near 150 years ago, bans mailing “obscene materials,” the definition of which is being applied to abortion pills. This lawsuit is completely meritless, yet it is still making its way through district court where the only judges are anti-abortion Trump-appoint
Tue, January 10, 2023
How the Overturning of Roe has Impacted the Latina Community
New research from the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice shows that the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade has devastated Latinas the most among people of color. In fact, nearly 6.5 million Latinas—42% of all Latinas ages 15-49—living in the 26 states that have banned or are likely to ban abortion. Elizabeth Estrada , New York Field and Advocacy Manger for NLIRJ, sits down with us to talk about what abortion access looked like for Latinas, immigrant communities, young people, and those in rural areas before and after the fall of Roe . Before the Dobbs decision even came down, abortion was not inherently accessible for Latinas in the U.S. In April of 2022, Lizelle Herrera, a woman in the Rio Grande Valley, experienced criminalization and incarceration for a self-managed abortion. Additionally, Texas’s six-week abortion ban, S.B. 8, has been hugely restrictive for many in the American southwest. These extremes have been a reality for marginalized communities already facing barriers to care long before Roe v. Wade was overturned. With the Dobbs decision now in effect, many states do not offer abortion care, forcing people to travel out-of-state if they can find an appointment. States, in response, are seeking to criminalize that travel. For those who are undocumented or are perhaps living in border towns in the United States, there are already a host of challenges getting to a clinic in one’s own state, let alone traveling far and wide within the country. Already facing increased surveillance, the presence of police and border control can often result in reproductive healthcare access being unrealized. Despite abortion being a widely popular issue among Latinx people, there is, unfortunately, a mass of mis- and disinformation targeted at the community. Content on social media sites can be targeted based on demographics in an effort to intentionally mislead people, often into using crisis pregnancy centers—brick-and-mortar organizations that frame themselves as medical providers but actually do not offer abortion care, instead often coercing and shaming patients into keeping pregnancies. That’s why it’s important to talk openly with our loved ones, share personal stories that dispel myths (if you feel comfortable and safe), become involved in grassroots work, and lobby our elected officials. Links National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice on Twitter National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice on Facebook Impact of Roe Overturning on Latinas from NLIRJ and National Partner
Tue, December 27, 2022
The US Healthcare System is Already Failing People -- Abortion Bans Make it Worse
The Dobbs decision that overturned Roe v. Wade has, in many states, decimated access to abortion care and prevented abortion providers from treating patients. Dr. Leah Torres , Obstetrician/Gynecologist practicing in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, sits down to talk with us about the state of abortion access in Alabama and how the United States’ healthcare system layout is generally preventing access to quality care. Currently, there is no abortion access in Alabama. Prior to the overturning of Roe v. Wade , the rate of people dying in pregnancy and childbirth in Alabama was twice the national average. Lack of abortion access will only make these extremely upsetting numbers worse. In addition, the United States’ current healthcare system is compounding these dangers for pregnant and birthing people in this country. From transgender healthcare to abortion to vaccination, the politicization of modern medicine comes from the select few embedded in our current healthcare system who have money and power to gain by exploiting the framework and those who seek care within it. Some states, such Alabama, continuously refuse to expand their Medicaid program blocking insurance coverage for those who need it most, while also limiting which providers and clinics can receive Title X funding . Medical students continue to face barriers to training in abortion care. Many residency programs state the miscarriage management training is the same as abortion care training, which is not true. Fellowships, which offer training in certain areas, are often years-long. This means after medical school and residency, many who want to learn about abortion care feel the need to take on another two-year long fellowship in family planning. A lack of sex education across the United States and the gatekeeping of comprehensive information about healthcare intensifies the inability to realize sexual and reproductive health care. When powerful institutions control the narrative about our health and bodies, often informed by “religious freedom,” this can lead to interpersonal relationship problems and mis- and dis-information. While this may seem big-picture, it has a very pin-pointed impact, leading to providers like Dr. Torres to treat individual patients who are coming in for treatment because of lack of access to education and basic care elsewhere. Many who seek care at Catholic hospitals (entities that don’t often make their religious affiliation clear), may not receive the reproductive healthcare they want or need because of religious directives. Links: Dr. Leah Torres on Twitter <a href='https://www.reprosfightback.com/episodes-blog/2017/12/13/episode-1-d9nla-dkmah-2
Tue, December 13, 2022
Abortion Funds: Your Ability to Access an Abortion Shouldn't Depend on What's in Your Wallet
Abortion funds work overtime to help patients hurdle financial and logistical barriers to abortion access, and their work has gotten increasingly more difficult after the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Oriaku Njoku , Executive Director of the National Network of Abortion Funds, sits down with us to talk about the power of abortion funds, what they do for communities, and how they facilitate access to abortion care across the country. An abortion fund acts as mutual aid, facilitating and providing access to logistical help for those seeking abortion care. This help may include financial support, transportation, patient education, and more. Patients often reach out to a fund after they’ve scheduled an appointment, and the fund will work closely with the patient to come up with the financial difference needed to receive medical services (which is $500 on average). Funds work with other funds across the United States to ensure that money, resources, and support are given to those seeking an abortion. Oftentimes, people that reach out to abortion funds for assistance are those in already marginalized communities, such as Black folks, Indigenous people, non-Black people of color, young people, those living rurally, etc. Those living in rural Mississippi-- a state that only had one abortion clinic before the overturning of Roe v. Wade —have compounding and intersectional factors that make accessing abortion care increasingly difficult, such as transportation, geography, income, race, ethnicity, and pre-existing abortion restrictions in the state, among others. In fact, over 90% of those living in the Southeast United States live in a county without an abortion provider. At the core of abortion funds is reproductive justice, or the human right to maintain personal bodily autonomy, have children, not have children, and parent the children we have in safe and sustainable communities, as defined by Sister Song Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective. It is important to understand the difference between the reproductive health, rights, and justice frameworks and what it means to have human rights and social justice at the center of these conversations. Links National Network of Abortion Funds on Twitter National Network of Abortion Funds on Facebook Take Action It’s the holiday season, which means it’s the perfect time to challenge misinformed opinions around abortion and other reproductive healthcare when they occur at the dinner table. Talking about abortion destigmatizes and normalizes care, so let’s make sure we have these conversations now and year-round. Donate to abortion funds! You can find NNAF’s donation page <a href='https://don
Bonus · Tue, December 06, 2022
Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Hero Origin Stories- Round 5 (Part 2)
Longtime supporters of rePROs Fight Back know what time of year it is… tune in for a reprisal of our most popular series, SRHR Hero Origin Stories! If you haven’t already, check out our previous episodes, SRHR Hero Origin Stories , SRHR Hero Origin Stories: Round 2 , SRHR Hero Origin Stories: Round 3, SRHR Hero Origin Stories: Round 4 , and SRHR Hero Origin Stories Round 5 (Part 1) where we talked to a number of amazing heroes in the field of reproductive health, rights, and about how they began working in this space. This time, hear from Tarah Demant at Amnesty International USA, Gayatri Patel at the Women’s Refugee Commission, and Jennie Wetter, host of rePROs Fight Back. Guests include: Gayatri Patel at the Women’s Refugee Commission Tarah Demant at Amnesty International USA Jennie Wetter at rePROs Fight Back Links Amnesty International USA on Facebook and Twitter Women’s Refugee Commission on Facebook and Twitter You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 29, 2022
Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Hero Origin Stories: Round 5
Longtime supporters of rePROs Fight Back know what time of year it is… tune in for a reprisal of our most popular series, SRHR Hero Origin Stories! If you haven’t already, checked out our previous episodes, SRHR Hero Origin Stories , SRHR Hero Origin Stories: Round 2 , SRHR Hero Origin Stories: Round 3, and SRHR Hero Origin Stories: Round 4 , where we talked to a number of amazing heroes in the field of reproductive health, rights, and about how they began working in this space. This time, hear from Rev. Katey Zeh, Executive Director of the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice and Pamela Merritt, Executive Director of Medical Students for Choice. Guests include: Rev. Katey Zeh, Executive Director – Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice Pamela Merritt, Executive Director – Medical Students for Choice Take Action: Follow these organizations on social media and keep up-to-date on their amazing work! Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice on Facebook and Twitter Medical Students for Choice on Facebook and Twitter You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 15, 2022
The Green Wave: How Abortion Rights Are Spreading Through Latin America
The green wave, a liberal feminist movement started in Argentina, increased mobilization in 2020 in to decriminalize and destigmatize abortion across multiple countries in Latin America. Catalina Martínez Coral, Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean at the Center for Reproductive Rights and leading member of the movement that decriminalized abortion in Colombia, sits down with us to talk about the inspirational movement, the human rights gains made across Latin America, and what the U.S. can learn from green wave activists. Starting in 2020 in Argentina, hundreds of thousands of activists took to the streets outside of Congressional buildings on a weekly basis to demand abortion rights. Still, before the green wave spilled over from Argentina into Mexico and Colombia (which later affirmed the right to abortion), Latin America and the Caribbean was one of most restrictive environments worldwide for the access of abortion services. Currently, seven countries in the region have a total ban on abortion (El Salvador, Jamaica, Honduras, Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Suriname). In these countries today, and in countries that had previously criminalized abortion, many people face or have faced limited exceptions to abortion access (abortion in the case of rape, to save the life of an individual, etc.), provider bias, stigma, and more. U.S. advocates can learn a lot from the green wave movement and its incredible activists. First and foremost, the U.S. must begin by incorporating human rights standards as part of domestic work. Second, the U.S. can continue to strengthen the abortion rights movement and its mobilization to make as much noise as possible around important, just, human rights issues. Links Center for Reproductive Rights on Twitter Center for Reproductive Rights on Facebook Centro de Derechos Reproductivos on Twitter #ThxBirthControl Toolkit Take Action Items Follow Center for Reproductive Rights on Twitter and Facebook , and Centro de Derechos Reproductivos on Twitter . . Share Green Wave stories on social media! Similarly, support Green Wave activists at in-person strikes and events both in the U.S. and in Latin America. Continue to have conversations with friends and family about abortion as a human right. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 <a rel="payment" href="https://www.reprosf
Tue, November 01, 2022
Talking About Abortion: The Language and Imagery We Use Matters
During the Trump administration, multiple myths and pieces of misinformation about abortion were widely circulated. While states were gearing up to pass the first round of near total `abortion bans, Physicians for Reproductive Health was building a comprehensive guide to gold-standard language when talking about abortion care. Kelsey Rhodes , leader of communications work at Physicians for Reproductive Health, sits down to discuss how to talk about abortion in the most inclusive, compassionate, and fact-based way and why it’s important. Gender inclusivity is incredibly important when talking about any type of healthcare, and particularly so in sexual and reproductive healthcare. Women, indeed, do need to be able to receive full-spectrum reproductive health care, but they do not represent every single person that should be able to access this type of care. Language that only centers “mothers,” and “women,” leave out folks of other gender orientations that also receive and deserve this kind of care, including transgender and nonbinary folks. The fight for abortion rights and transgender rights often intersects, and many abortion providers also provider gender-affirming care. Speaking about abortion means intentionally including the experiences of transgender and nonbinary individuals. The sound that people will hear at six weeks of gestation (if they are forced to listen to their ultrasound) is the medically proven electro cardiac activity of cells that one day could become a heart. The anti-abortion movement used that sound to signify “life” at six weeks of gestation, underlying the term “heartbeat ban.” “Heartbeat ban” gets repeated frequently by anti-abortion legislators, and by journalists who are reporting on new state-based legislation that restricts abortion. This term is intentionally used to create an emotional, visceral response. Journalists have a responsibility to report accurate information about abortion care and fact-check against myths like “abortion reversal,” The coat hanger image refers to a time in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, in which people who wished to end their own pregnancies turned to clandestine methods of abortion because they could not access care. Using coat hanger imagery now does not reflect the time in history we are in now, which includes incredibly safe, scientifically advanced, modern methods of abortion care, such as medication abortion. Using coat hanger imagery paints a false picture of the physical safety and reliability of abortion care today, especially self-managed abortion. Similarly, Handmaid’s Tale imagery advances a fictional narrative that doesn’t accurately reflect how systems of oppression in this country disproportionately impact Black, brown, queer, and immigrant communities. The story centers white women and equates a fictional world to the real-time, lived experiences of those whose reproductive health and rights are being systematically oppresse
Tue, October 18, 2022
A Deep-Dive on The Global Anti-Gender Movement
The anti-gender and anti-rights movement is a loosely connected set of groups and money, sometimes working in tandem with governments, who are looking to claw back LGBTQI+ rights and abortion rights that have been realized around the world. Bierne Roose-Snyder , Senior Policy Fellow for the Council for Global Equality, sits down to talk with us about how these movements came to be and the danger they pose to human rights and democratic systems. The anti-gender and anti-rights movement simultaneously works on a global and domestic scale. Misinformation and information flooding has contributed greatly to the anti-gender and anti-rights movement, undermining expertise and civil society, and creating a world in which no factual information can be trusted. From a domestic perspective, this can be very closely intertwined with authoritarian and anti-democratic movements. In a move to diminish civil society, the anti-gender movement will often target organizations that promote or support LGBTQI+ rights, sexual and reproductive health and rights, or other human rights—whether through formal complaints or targeted harassment and abuse. For example, in Uganda, the anti-gender government targeted Sexual Minorities Uganda (SMUG), a Kampala-based LGBTQI+ human rights nonprofit. Similarly, Boston Children’s Hospital has faced an extreme increase of threats and harassment for providing gender-affirming healthcare. The sexual and reproductive health and rights movement and the LGBTQI+ movement are being out funded by the anti-gender, anti-rights movement at incredible rates. In addition, U.S. religious institutions are not required to report their funding activities. Between 2013 and 2017, LGBTQI movements worldwide received 1.2 billion dollars in funding, while the anti-gender movement received 3.7 billion in funding. Links Council for Global Equality on Twitter Council for Global Equality on Facebook Power Over Rights – Center for Feminist Foreign Policy Rights at Risk – Observatory on the Universality of Rights Exporting Disinformation - Mozilla Foundation Manufacturing Moral Panic – Global Philanthropy Project Take Action Follow the Council for Global Equality on Twitter and Facebook
Tue, October 04, 2022
Becca Andrews on Her New Book No Choice: The Destruction of Roe v. Wade and the Fight to Protect a Fundamental American Right
What was access to abortion like before Roe v. Wade , and what will access to abortion look like after its overturning? Becca Andrews , reporter at Reckon News, talks to us about her new book No Choice: The Destruction of Roe v. Wade and the Fight to Protect a Fundamental American Right, including what communities will be hardest hit by the Supreme Court’s decision, as well as the inspiring, groundbreaking work that leaders, activists, and providers are doing around the country to ensure that patients are able to access essential abortion care. The history of reproductive coercion has been and continues to be rampant in the United States, disproportionately targeted towards people of color and non-cisgendered folks. This unjust thread, foundational to the beginnings of the U.S., continues to weave through access to reproductive healthcare and modern medicine in general. The Janes, the Clergy Consultative Service on Abortion, and the Society for Humane Abortion were collectives that supported, counseled on, referred to, and facilitated access to abortion care before the Supreme Court’s 1973 implementation of Roe . However, Roe ’s legal protections were not around long before they started to be chipped away at; Roe had not even been in place for 50 years before its repeal. Throughout Roe ’s standing, many white women’s reproductive health and rights advocacy did not extend to include all who have a right to care. This was made expressly evident through the application of (and lack of fight against) the Hyde amendment, which systematically prevents those receiving Medicaid coverage from accessing an abortion. In addition, the multi-layered barriers—such as a lack of access to childcare and transportation, inability to take time off of work, and lack of access to funds for the procedure and associated costs—coalesced overtime to make an unnavigable labyrinth to accessing care that was particularly felt by those with low-incomes, people of color, young people, LGBTQI+ folks, and immigrant communities. Links No Choice: The Destruction of Roe v. Wade and the Fight to Protect a Fundamental American Right Becca Andrews at Reckon News Becca Andrews on Twitter Take Action Items Support Becca by purchasing her book, No Choice: The Destruction of Roe v. Wade and the Fight t
Tue, September 20, 2022
Apparently Overturning Roe Wasn't Enough: A National Abortion Ban has Been Proposed
Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) last week proposed a national abortion ban that would impact patient’s access to abortion care across the United States. Erin Matson , Co-founder and Executive Director of Reproaction, sits down to talk with us about this introduced 15-week abortion ban in the U.S. Senate this week and what this could mean for Americans. The overturn of Roe v. Wade has fundamentally changed abortion access in the United States, with abortion bans in individual states preventing care and forcing patients to travel in order to access an abortion. These pieces of legislation—designed to control reproduction and bodily autonomy—are heavily influenced by white supremacy, enforced gender roles, and reproductive oppression. When the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision was leaked and eventually ruled, many anti-abortion voices argued that this move would simply “send the issue back to the states”; clearly, this isn’t the case. With Justice Clarence Thomas’ statements inviting challenges to birth control and same-sex marriage, this proposed national abortion ban points clearly to a future in which Republicans and other anti-abortion legislators would have no problem outlawing other basic human rights tied to bodily autonomy and personal decision making. In addition, none of the language used in Senator Lindsey Graham’s bill is factual or based in science or medicine. Instead, this language is instituted for the purpose of stigmatizing and banning abortion and other forms of reproductive healthcare. 15 weeks does not allow for many people to discover they are pregnant, raise money to pay for the abortion, get time off work, arrange childcare or transportation, or account at all for changed circumstances during pregnancy. Links Reproaction on Twitter Reproaction on Facebook Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Take Action Follow Reproaction on Twitter and Facebook to stay up-to-date on their fantastic work. Center the needs of the people in your community! Abortion funds are such wonderful pillars of support, and they often need donations and, in some cases, volunteering. Learn more about sel
Tue, September 06, 2022
The US's Systemic Failure to Address the Sexual Violence Crisis in Indigenous Communities
Trigger Warning: In this episode we talk about sexual violence against Native women. If you need help or to talk to someone here are some resources you can call or chat: the StrongHearts Native Helpline at https://strongheartshelpline.org/ 1-844-7NATIVE, National Domestic Violence Hotline at https://www.thehotline.org/ 1-800-799-SAFE or the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) at https://www.rainn.org/ 1-800-656-HOPE. 1 in 2 Indigenous women have experienced sexual violence. Even with this staggeringly high statistic, it’s near impossible for Indigenous women to access the care and support needed. Juskwa Burnett , Indigenous Advocate, Moccasins of Hope, talks to us about her experience working with Indigenous sexual violence survivors and the ways in which sexual violence impacts her community. In addition, Tarah Demant , Interim National Director of Programs, Advocacy, and Government Affairs with Amnesty International USA, sits down to talk to us about healthcare and judicial barriers faced by Indigenous women as it relates to sexual violence and Amensty International USA’s new report detailing the barriers erected by the U.S. government when it comes to Alaska Native and American Indian women’s access to healthcare and support after experiencing disproportionate rates of sexual violence. The United States’ response to this epidemic of sexual violence is confusing and maze-like, preventing Indigenous women from being able to access the healthcare they need or get justice for crimes committed. This complex system results in confusion and chaos, and further exacerbates the sexual violence epidemic faced by Indigenous women. The root of this problem is based in the US’s erosion of tribal authority, allowing for these extremely unfortunate circumstances to flourish, despite the fact that this country is obligated to protect Indigenous communities under the UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People. When Indigenous women require healthcare and services after experiencing sexual violence, many simply can’t access it. Health centers are located far away from villages and reservations, and Indian Health Services (IHS) is federally underfunded to a point where it is an open question whether or not a rape kit will be available. The justice system in Indian country is also massively federally underfunded and complicated, leading to a lack of prosecution for sexual violence crimes. Links Amnesty International USA on Twitter Amnesty International USA on Facebook The never-ending maze: continued failure to protect indigenous women from sexual violence in the US
Tue, August 23, 2022
Two Months Post-Roe: What Does Abortion Access Look Like in the U.S.?
With the landscape of abortion access changing almost daily in the United States, hundreds of thousands of people are not receiving the basic healthcare they need. Danika Severino Wynn , midwife and VP of Abortion Access with Planned Parenthood Federation of America, talks to us about the current state of abortion access in the U.S. and how different states and communities are disproportionately feeling the harm of restrictions and bans. It may come as no surprise, but in states where abortion bans are already in place, abortion care is extremely difficult to access. Many are having to piece together information about how and where to receive care before driving or flying out-of-state. At the same time, purposeful misinformation is pushed by anti-abortion advocates and politicians in order to shame and confuse patients. In states where abortion hasn’t been banned, providers, clinics, and abortion funds are having to overextend their capacity to provide care and support for those traveling from out-of-state. This results in longer wait times for appointments, which is particularly troubling for time-sensitive abortion care. Other sexual and reproductive healthcare is being impacted by these bans, as well. In states where abortion is severely restricted or banned, Planned Parenthood is still on-the-ground and providing a range of sexual and reproductive health care, including birth control prescriptions, cancer screenings, STI testing/screening, and more. In states where abortion is still legal and are seeing increased volume of patients, there are some increased wait times for services, but don’t worry-- Planned Parenthood is still working diligently to ensure appointments are scheduled and kept. Links Planned Parenthood Federation of America on Twitter Planned Parenthood Federation of America on Facebook Plan C Abortionfinder.org Ineedana.com Repro Legal Helpline Repro Legal Defense Fund Digital Defense Fund Take Action Follow Planned Parenthood Federation of America on Twitter and Facebook . Go to bansoff.org or text ACCESS to 22422 to learn more about how to fight back. There is power in storytelling. Speak up using a hashtag on social media or share your story through P
Tue, August 09, 2022
Need an Abortion? Here are Some Resources and Things to Consider
Abortion is still legal in more than half of U.S. states, but many people may not be able to access the care they need in the states they live in. As criminalization of pregnancy and abortion becomes increasingly normalized, there are a number of legal considerations to keep in mind when looking for care remembering that those already marginalized are most at risk for criminalization. Rafa Kidvai , Director of the Legal Defense Fund at If/When/How and Liz Ling , Senior Helpline Counsel at If/When/How, talk to us about the new landscape of abortion access in the U.S. and how someone can go about safely and reliably accessing an abortion. If you’re pregnant and looking for abortion care, you can start with abortionfinder.org and Ineedana.com to find out what type of care is available closest to you. Regardless of where you are, be cognizant of your digital privacy—be aware of your search history, who you are sharing information with, and how often you are sharing information. Pregnancy and abortion criminalization may be bolstered by law enforcement obtaining copies of digital receipts. Once you are in front of a medical professional, ask as many questions as you may have. Again, be aware of the people around you at this time and those that may be trustworthy with information regarding your abortion care. Be aware of your digital footprint and turn off your location services on your phone when you go to a clinic. After an abortion, it’s again important to remember who you are sharing information with. If you are contacted or detained by law enforcement, call the Repro Legal Helpline and do not speak without a lawyer present. You can also contact the helpline if you are helping someone access care and need advice or guidance. If/When/How’s Repro Legal Helpline is a completely free and confidential resource for anyone who may have questions about reproductive justice—including what your rights are and what state laws are so that you feel fully informed in making a decision. You can receive information on what legal risks you may face based on if and how you choose to end a pregnancy, as well as options and legal barriers that you may specifically face in certain states if you are a young person. The Repro Legal Defense Fund raises bail for those who are criminalized for pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes and self-managed abortion. The defense fund, in addition, pays legal and attorney fees, engages a network of expert witnesses, and creates arguments against junk science that often underlies pregnancy and abortion criminalization. Links If/When/How on Twitter If/When/How on Face
Tue, July 26, 2022
How Has the Biden Administration and Congress Responded to the Abortion Crisis?
There has been a flurry of executive and Congressional action after the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court case that overturned Roe v. Wade . Leila Abolfazli, Director of Federal Reproductive Rights at the National Women’s Law Center, sits down to talk with us about executive and Congressional measures being taken on abortion rights in the United States. The executive order issued by the Biden administration is split into four main sections that: 1) directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on actions to take; 2) convenes private, pro-bono attorneys and Bar associations in an effort to represent patients, providers, and other third parties who lawfully seeking or providing reproductive health care; 3) asked the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to protect people’s online data when seeking information about or seeking abortion care; and 4) outlines other laws that HHS can support, including strengthening the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and creating an HHS-Gender Policy Council taskforce that coordinates federal agency response to abortion. You can find additional information about this executive order here . Congress held five hearings after the release of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling in the House Oversight Committee , House Energy and Commerce Committee, House Judiciary Committee , Senate Judiciary Committee , and Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pension Committee . The House passed a bill called the Ensuring Access to Abortion Act, which would ensure protection of those crossing state lines to receive an abortion. In addition, the House passed the Women’s Health Protection Act which would cement a federal right to abortion. The Respect for Marriage Act passed in the House would protect same-sex marriage, while the Right to Contraception Act passed in the House would protect the right to birth control access. Lastly, the Senate voted on emergency funding for <a href='https://www.repros
Tue, July 12, 2022
Nobody Puts Abortion in a Corner: Abortion in Film and TV
Television and film often allow people to make sense of the world. With abortion being center stage in many national conversations and with so many myths circulating about this type of care, it is especially important that TV and film represent abortion stories accurately. Steph Herold , researcher studying abortion in television and film at Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), sits down to talk with us about abortion depictions onscreen and what Hollywood could include in storytelling to be more representative of those seeking abortion care. Television and films have been telling abortion stories for a very long time, but sometimes the depictions aren’t realistic. Often, abortion is portrayed as a risky or unsafe procedure (which is fundamentally untrue—it’s one of the safest medical procedures a person can receive). In addition, characters that receive abortions in television and film don’t often reflect those who receive abortions in real life; most abortion patients in real life are people of color, struggling to make ends meet, many of whom are already parents, yet the character onscreen who receives an abortion is often a young, white, single woman. In addition, characters don’t face barriers to the care they need, including waiting periods, traveling, financial concerns, and gestational bans. Lastly, medication abortion is largely underrepresented onscreen. Still, over the last couple of years, TV and film have done a better job at telling compassionate and accurate abortion stories. 2020 saw the most abortion stories told on television in a year, and included Never, Rarely, Sometimes Always, Unpregnant, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, Premature and St. Francis . Each showed a person accessing different types of abortion with the support of a friend or family member. More characters of color are accessing abortion on TV, including Olivia Pope on Scandal , a queer, Black character on the Bold Type , and Vic on Station 19 . Links ANSIRH on Twitter ANSIRH on Facebook Abortiononscreen.org Take Action Follow ANSIRH on Twitter and Facebook . Visit abortiononscreen.org and find a list of over 500 TV shows and film that feature an abortion plotline. Watch these pieces of media and consider whether or not the abortion stories are representative—and have conversations about them! You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://ww
Bonus · Tue, July 05, 2022
A Look at the Post-Roe Chaos
After the overturning of Roe v. Wade , the federal right to abortion was eliminated and sent back to individual states. The United States is now seeing a state-by-state patchwork of laws, court challenges, and disparate barriers to abortion access. Garnet Henderson , independent journalist and host and producer of ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion, sits down to talk with us about the on-the-ground chaos after the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade and myths around adoption as an alternative for abortion. Clinic staff and abortion providers have been working overtime to try and see as many patients as possible before the eventual overturning of Roe, with some clinics even opening their doors earlier in the day. Texas’s robust network, working to help many people get funds to cover their procedure and transportation out of state, was shut down on the day of the decision. At a clinic in Alabama, 100 patients who had already jumped through the state’s unnecessary barriers and were pre-approved to receive care that day had to be turned away as soon as the Supreme Court ruling was released. Trigger bans and pre-Roe bans are being passed and challenged around the country, contributing to further, fractured confusion and differing levels of accessibility. A popular anti-abortion talking point is to say that adoption is a suitable alternative to abortion. This is fundamentally untrue; first and foremost, not very many people at all choose to place a child up for adoption after birth, even when the pregnancy was not planned. In general, pregnancy is incredibly difficult and dangerous, particularly for Black people and other people of color. Adoption is an alternative to parenting, not to pregnancy—adoption doesn’t account for the outcome of someone who simply doesn’t want to be pregnant not being pregnant. Adoption can also be a very emotional complex and painful experience for the birth parent and the child, meaning that adoption isn’t an easy or given alterative to a wanted abortion. Links ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion ACCESS on Twitter ACCESS on Instagram Garnet on Twitter What This Later-Abortion Story Tells Us About a Post-Roe Future INeedAnA.com Abortion Fund Donation Finder Take Action Find ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion here and follow on Instagram and Twitter . You can also follow Garnet
Tue, June 28, 2022
Rev. Katey Zeh on Her New Book A Complicated Choice: Making Space for Grief and Healing in the Pro-Choice Movement
The ways in which abortion is often publicly debated can result in the harmful depiction of the experience of ending a pregnancy in overly simplistic terms . Rev. Katey Zeh , CEO of the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, and Author of A Complicated Choice: Making Space for Grief and Healing in the Pro-Choice Movement , talks to us about her new book, the myths and stigma that people must wade through when getting an abortion, and the vast amount of feelings and experiences many people may have when accessing care. A Complicated Choice chronicles the complicated feelings that people have around their abortion experiences. Overall, the book highlights how people can make decisions surrounding abortion and have a lot of nuanced, complex feelings around it—but that doesn’t mean that it wasn’t the right decision. In addition, many people experience internalized abortion stigma, due to far-reaching myths and rhetoric spread by those who are anti-abortion. This stigma can often display itself as a sense of isolation in one’s experience. White Christian nationalism intertwines greatly with the stigmatization of and logistical attacks against abortion. Steeped in racism, sexism, classism, and Christian nationalism, these abortion attacks disproportionately harm Black people, Indigenous people, other people of color, the LGBTQ+ community young people, etc. Find Reverend Katey Zeh’s book at your local bookstore or on bookshop.org Links A Complicated Choice by Katey Zeh Katey Zeh on Twitter Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice on Twitter Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice on Facebook The Kindreds Podcast INeedAnA.com Abortion Fund Donation Finder AbortionsWelcome.org Religion and Repro Learning Center Take Action Follow the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice on Twitter and Facebook ! Support your local abortion fund. You can find
Bonus · Sun, June 26, 2022
Emergency Pod: The Supreme Court Overturns Roe v. Wade
On Friday the Supreme Court released their decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization where they rejected 50 years of precedent by overturning Roe v. Wade. The decision eliminates the federal right to abortion access and sends it back to the states to decide. This will decimate abortion access in this country, as 26 states are likely to ban abortion in the wake of this decision. Kylie Cheung, staff writer at Jezebel, joins us to talk about the decision and what it means going forward. Links: Welcome to the ‘Total Chaos’ Era of Abortion Access Kylie Cheung on Twitter Kylie Cheung Reporting at Jezebel If you need an abortion I Need An Abortion will help you find the clinic closest to you. Information about self managed abortion Repro Legal Helpline The Repro Legal Defense Fund covers bail and funds strong defenses for people who are investigated, arrested, or prosecuted for self-managed abortion. Abortion Fund Donation Finder Donate to independent clinics through Keep Our Clinics Protect your digital security with Digital Defense Fund You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, June 14, 2022
The Loss of Abortion Rights Will Send Reverberations Through Many Spheres
As the future of Roe looks increasingly shaky, the implications of its overturning could result in a number of outcomes some of which may not immediately occur to many of us. Pamela Merritt , Executive Director of Medical Students for Choice, talks to us about what the likely overturning of Roe v. Wade may mean for criminalization, health outcomes, and abortion education and training for medical students and residents. As the fall of Roe looms, the criminalization of pregnancy outcomes, sexual and reproductive health, and self-managed abortion may become more commonplace. Already, criminalization has crept closer and closer; Texas’s SB8 allows for anyone to sue for those who “aid and abet” in abortion access or care. In a country in which people of color are already hyper-surveilled, these outcomes will be disproportionately felt by Black communities and other communities of color. In an international context, Poland is currently seeking to create a registry of pregnant people using self-reported and investigated information. For so many, being able to decide whether or not to carry a pregnancy to term may be a life-or-death decision or can result in extreme health outcomes. For Black pregnant people in the U.S., maternal mortality rates are four times higher than the general population. Putting abortion out of reach means contributing to the persistent maternal health crisis. Abortion bans also impact fertility, access to in vitro fertilization, and the ability to treat fibroids, endometriosis, and polycystic issues. Miscarriage management and treatment of ectopic pregnancies may be up for debate among risk-averse hospital ethics boards. Roe’s future will have an unknown impact on abortion training and education among medical students and residents. In states that are poised to ban or limit abortion, will residency programs teaching on abortion care and family planning may lose accreditation? Will accrediting programs change their standards of care based on the American Academy of Obstetricians and Gynecologist’s best practices? Likely, in 5 to 20 years, patterns of geographic access to care may become clearer, where providers are legally safer practicing abortion in some areas of the country compared to others. Links INeedanA.com Abortion Fund Donation Finder Repro Legal Helpline Medical Students for Choice on Facebook Medical Students for Choice on Twitter National Advocates for Pregnant Women <a href='https://bookshop.org/books/policing-the-womb-invisible-women-and-the-criminalization-of-motherh
Tue, May 31, 2022
An Ask Me Anything Conversation on the Current Moment in Repro
From how we are preparing for the forthcoming Supreme Court ruling to how we are dealing with burnout, Tarah Demant , Interim National Director of Programs, Advocacy, and Government Affairs at Amnesty International USA, shares her thoughts on the current moment in reproductive health, rights, and justice and asks host Jennie Wetter a plethora of ask me anything (AMA) questions! Links INeedAnA.Com Abortion Fund Donation Finder Tarah Demant on Twitter Amnesty International USA on Twitter Amnesty International USA on Facebook Take Action Items If you need an abortion check out this website to find the clinic closest to you. Support your local abortion fund! This resource by Helmi Henkin which will connect you to your local abortion fund. Follow Tarah Demant on Twitter and follow Amnesty International USA on Twitter and Facebook ! Do what you need to do to recharge. Whether that’s logging off social media, taking part in a beloved hobby, or participating in a rally, take care of yourself in whatever way that you need to. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 17, 2022
How are States Prepping for the Fall of Roe?
In the 2022 state legislative session, over 500 abortion restrictions were introduced, with many extreme and restrictive anti-abortion bills passing. Rachel Sussman , Vice President of State Policy and Advocacy at Planned Parenthood Action Fund, talks to us about what the recent Supreme Court leak that threatens Roe v. Wade means for multiple states in the South and Midwest United States. Many states have gotten a head start on introducing harmful anti-abortion legislation. In fact, Oklahoma and Idaho have enacted copycats of Texas’s S.8.—a bill that bans abortion after only six weeks of pregnancy and allows for private citizens to enforce the law against each other through legal action. Oklahoma’s law is officially in effect (PPFA has asked for a stay on the law and is waiting on the decision), while the Idaho law has been stopped at the state court level. Florida, Kentucky, and Arizona have all enacted 15-week abortion bans which will go into effect with the upholding of the case at the center of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization . In addition, Louisiana is contemplating a law that would allow patients to be charged with homicide (which comes with the death penalty in the state) if they receive an abortion. The bill could also criminalize emergency contraception, invitro fertilization, and birth control. (Since we recorded Louisiana lawmakers have taken a step back from this bill for now.) There are 26 states that are positioned to ban abortion with the overturning of Roe v. Wade, mostly throughout the Midwest and the South. This will leave entire regions of the country geographically stranded when it comes to access to abortion care. Abortion providers, clinics, and funds in states that will continue to provide abortion care will undoubtedly experience extreme logistical and structural challenges while attempting to absorb the patients traveling from out-of-state. Still, there are several states that are working to support and protect abortion in direct opposition to the Supreme Court’s leaked decision. New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, and Connecticut have all voted to expand the type of medical practitioners who can provide abortions (such as nurse practitioners). Meanwhile, Oregon, California, and Connecticut are discussing usage of state dollars to directly support patients in accessing care. Links PPFA on Twitter PPFA on Facebook Bansoff.org Keepourclinics.org National Network of Abortion Funds Take Action Find advocacy opportunities at bansoff.o
Bonus · Thu, May 05, 2022
Emergency Podcast: SCOTUS Looks Ready to Completely Overturn Roe
On May 2nd, 2022, a Politico article was released that contained a leaked copy of the Supreme Court’s draft decision of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case that would most likely have been released formally in June or July of this year. The leaked decision, penned by Justice Samuel Alito, overturns Roe v. Wade , the 1973 Supreme Court case that guaranteed the constitutionality of abortion in the U.S. Caroline Reilly , Reporting Fellow with Rewire News Group, sits down to talk with us about the recent leaked draft and what this decision means for the future of abortion in America. The leaked draft ultimately upholds Mississippi’s 15-week ban at the heart of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case, overturns Roe v. Wade , and overturns Planned Parenthood vs. Casey , which ruled that patients cannot face “undue burden” when attempting to access an abortion. Technically and currently, abortion is still legal in all 50 states . This draft is not a ruling, but a window into what the Supreme Court is possibly planning to decide regarding the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case. If the Supreme Court indeed rules in line with the leaked draft, it will mean abortion will be illegal in half of the country. 26 states are likely to ban abortion if Roe is overturned. Those states and others will also likely take the opportunity to pass additional legislation that severely restrict or ban abortion care. This will lead to broad swaths of the country where abortion is inaccessible, and smatterings of states where abortion is accessible— leading to overwhelmed reproductive healthcare infrastructure in the states that do offer abortion care. As the U.S. faces these unprecedented attacks, we must remember that abortion is healthcare, abortion is freedom, and abortion is autonomy, and that the majority of Americans support upholding Roe. The fight to ensure access to basic, timely, and critical reproductive healthcare will continue. Links Caroline Reilly on Twitter Caroline Reilly on Rewire Rewire News Group on Twitter Rewire News Group on Facebook Center for Reproductive Rights “If Roe Fell” map Take Action Items Follow Caroline Reilly on Twitter and Rewire News Group on Facebook and <a href='https://twitter.com/rewirenewsgroup
Tue, May 03, 2022
Papua New Guinea: Providing Reproductive Health Care in a Highly Stigmatized Environment
Note: We recorded this episode prior to the leaked document showing the Supreme Courts intent to overturn the right to abortion. While unfortunately we don’t talk about it in the episode we will be recording an emergency episode soon to talk about what happened. Women and girls in the Pacific region face a variety of barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive healthcare. Geographic isolation, lack of bodily autonomy, and some of the world’s highest rates of sexual and gender-based violence contribute to high maternal mortality, low contraceptive prevalence and pervasive gender inequality. Myths and misconceptions around sex, reproduction and gender norms are rife, creating stigma and further impacting access to SRHR services. Kelly Durrant , External Relations Director at MSI Asia Pacific, speaks to us about addressing some of these challenges. Papua New Guinea (PNG) is the largest country in the pacific and the third largest island nation globally, home to approximately 9 million people—85% of which live in rural locations. Even before the pandemic, the country battled high rates of tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, malaria, maternal and child mortality, and inadequate primary healthcare in rural areas. MSI Asia Pacific has worked in Papua New Guinea since 2006, and is the largest – and in many provinces, the only – SRHR provider in the country. Teams of MSI-trained healthcare workers, community mobilizers and educators travel by plane, boat, or jeep to reach remote communities that are often inaccessible by road. In many cases, these outreach visits are the only way that these communities can access high-quality information, counselling and services to meet their sexual and reproductive healthcare needs and chose if and when to have children. Limited exposure to sexual and reproductive health education in tandem with social expectations related to the role of women in society means providers in the country must work to bust myths and address stigma related to contraception. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated poor health outcomes. The country also has some of the worst rates of gender-based violence globally, with some statistics estimating that 2 out of 3 women in PNG have experienced gender-based violence, rates of which have been worsened by the pandemic. MSI Asia Pacific works at a government level, community level, and individual level, to advocate for policy change, increase education, confront bias, and better deliver care. Involving faith leaders and men and boys in sexual and reproductive health education (balanced carefully with women and girl’s autonomy to make their own reproductive decisions) de-stigmatizes services. Links MSI Asia Pacific MSI Asia Pacific on Twitter <a href='https:
Tue, April 19, 2022
How Intimate Partner Violence is a Reproductive Justice Issue: A Personal Conversation
Trigger Warning: In this episode we talk about intimate partner violence. If you need help or to talk to someone you can call or chat the National Domestic Violence Hotline at https://www.thehotline.org/ 1-800-799-SAFE or the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) at https://www.rainn.org/ 1-800-656-HOPE. Intimate partner violence (IPV), or abuse or aggression in intimate or romantic relationships, takes many forms, including physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, financial violence, and psychological aggression. Monica Edwards, Federal Policy Manager at Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity (URGE), talks to us about the ways in which IPV and reproductive health, rights, and justice intersect, and the communities most impacted by IPV. SisterSong’s definition of reproductive justice is “human right to maintain personal bodily autonomy, have children, not have children, and parent the children we have in safe and sustainable communities.” Forms of IPV that are directly connected to reproductive health and reproductive justice include tampering with contraception, contraceptive coercion, and “stealthing,” (the removal of a condom during sexual intercourse without a partner’s consent), among other forms. Those seeking abortion care may be unable to do so because they are in an IPV situation, and research from the Turnaway Study has shown that those who cannot access an abortion are more likely to stay with abusive partners. Those who are experiencing violence—intimate partner violence, police violence, violence from the state, etc.—are not living in safe and sustainable communities, and therefore cannot fulfill their reproductive justice. It is important to note that IPV directly impacts different communities in different ways. A recent study has found that homicide is the leading cause of maternal mortality for pregnant people in the United States. Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC) experience IPV disproportionately. Young people—whether teens or young adults—can experience IPV or what’s known as “teen dating violence,” and data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found that 1 in 12 teens experience dating violence and 1 in 12 teens experienced sexual dating violence. How do we address these issues that demand immediate attention? Having open, honest, and intersectional conversations that uplift and center the experiences of communities that are consistently oppressed. This rule is as true for intimate partner violence as it is for reproductive health and abortion and contraception access. Links URGE on Twitter URGE on Facebook <a href='file:///Users/jwetter/Downloads/Young%20people—wh
Bonus · Tue, April 12, 2022
BMHW22: The Current Status of Black Maternal Health in the U.S.
It’s officially Black Maternal Health Week 2022! Dr. Jamila Taylor , Director of Healthcare Reform and Senior Fellow at the Century Foundation, sits down to talk with us about the current status of Black maternal health in the U.S., as well as what access to abortion, pregnancy and delivery care, and COVID-19 services look like for Black pregnant people and other people of color in this country. Even though the United States spends more per capita on health care than any other country, the maternal mortality rate is steadily worsening. Just last month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new data showing that Black women are three times more likely to die from maternal health issues and maternal morbidity than white women. These rates have steadily increased due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Social and structural inequality as well as racism in the healthcare system continue to contribute to the poor health outcomes of Black women. Racism in healthcare can result in physical and mental health impacts, weathering (wear and tear on the body), and increased likelihood of experiencing complications during the pregnancy and birthing process. The COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare the ways in which marginalized communities continue to be further marginalized when it comes to healthcare access. The pandemic’s restrictions on those allowed inside hospitals and clinics impacted Black birthing people’s abilities to bring along companions into medical settings, like a friend, family member, or doula to serve as an additional patient advocate. Already, the U.S. is experiencing a maternal mortality and morbidity crisis, but tacking on extreme attacks to abortion care will worsen health outcomes. A possible overturning of Roe v. Wade by the Supreme Court in June will leave the United States woefully unprepared for a worsening maternal mortality crisis, exacerbated by a lack of access to abortion care for millions. States that are most likely to pass the most draconian abortion restrictions are the states with the highest maternal mortality rates, mostly concentrated in the American south. The Momnibus package, which has been led by Congresswoman Lauren Underwood and Congresswoman Alma Adams, is a package of 12 bills that address almost every dimension of the Black maternal health crisis. This package of legislation addresses a variety of intersectional Black maternal health concerns, including the social determinants of health, vaccinations, climate, housing, insurance coverage and more. Passage of the Momnibus would make a momentous difference in addressing the U.S. Black maternal health crisis. Links The Century Foundation on Twitter The Cent
Tue, April 05, 2022
The Relentless Assault on Transgender Health and Rights
Across the country, measures are being introduced to restrict gender-affirming healthcare, ban LGBTQ+ books, and prevent trans girls and women from participating in sports. Katelyn Burns , the first openly trans Capitol Hill reporter in U.S. history, freelance journalist, MSNBC columnist, and co-host of podcast Cancel Me Daddy, sits down to talk with us about recent and increasing attacks on the health and rights of transgender people across the U.S. Conservatives around the country have stepped up their attacks on trans rights with the attacks falling into a couple of different buckets. Conservative lawmakers are working to ban books about LGBTQ+ orientations and identities in schools and libraries. Florida has recently passed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, which explicitly bans classroom discussion about LGBTQ+ issues, further empowers parents to sue school districts, and requires schools to disclose to parents when their child receives mental health services. At the same time, more than a dozen states have passed legislation that limit transgender girls competing in school sports. A total of 15 states this year have enacted or are considering laws that would limit or ban gender-affirming care—including puberty blockers and hormone replacement therapy—for transgender youth. In Texas, the most recent law attacking gender-affirming care has arranged for the state’s Department of Family and Child Services to class provision of gender-affirming care to someone under 18 as child abuse. Even with all of these attacks on trans rights it’s not all terrible news, on the Transgender Day of Visibility, the White House unveiled a host of meaningful policy rollouts, including having an “X” as one’s gender marker on one’s U.S. passport, working with airlines and the TSA on deprioritizing gender altogether when it comes to air travel, and the replacement of gender binary airport security scanners. Links Katelyn Burns on Twitter Cancel Me Daddy Human Rights Campaign rally information White House Release on Transgender Day of Visibility The massive Republican push to ban trans athletes, explained Critics accuse trans swimming star Lia Thomas of having an unfair advantage. The data tells a different story Florida's 'Don't Say Gay' bill would
Tue, March 22, 2022
Faith and Repro: What Does Judaism say About Reproductive Rights and LGBTQ+ Rights
From abortion, to birth control, to LGBTQ+ issues, the Jewish faith informs many advocates, leaders, and believer’s work on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Rabbi Danya Ruttenburg , Scholar in Residence at the National Council of Jewish Women, sits down with us to talk about the ways Judaism and reproductive health and rights intersect. Judaism teaches that abortion is permitted and is often required if the life of the pregnant person is threatened. Some stories in Jewish texts make it explicitly clear that, if the head has not emerged from the body, the life of the pregnant person takes precedent. Other stories in ancient texts describe the permitted use of medication abortion. In Jewish communities, these are the stories that inform conversations relating to conception, personhood, and the question of when life begins. In the more patriarchal communities in Judaism, many practitioners approach Rabbis for permission to use birth control and continue to tie birth control usage to marriage status. Still, while Judaism has threads of pro-natalism and patriarchy within it, contraception is a much less hot-button topic than in Catholicism. In fact, when it comes to birth control, many methods are described in the Talmud. These methods include the mokh (an absorbent, wool insert) as well as the kos shel ikkarin (an herbal mix made up of roots). Many scholars argue that mentions of LGBTQ+ issues in Jewish writings are consistently up to interpretation. Still, Jewish texts mention upwards of six or seven different sex and gender identities, and instead of rejecting, banishing, or ignoring, Judaism seeks to find ways to welcome gender nonconforming or gender non-binary people. Links National Council of Jewish Women on Twitter National Council of Jewish Women on Facebook Rabbi Danya Ruttenburg’s Twitter Thread Transtorah.org Take Action Follow the National Council of Jewish Women on Facebook and Twitter ! To learn more about the ways LGBTQ+ issues and Judaism intersect, find transtorah.org here . If you are a faith leader, take the initative to listen to LGBTQ+ and repro voices. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: <a href='https://www.instagram.com/reprosfb/'
Tue, March 08, 2022
SB8 Made it Even Harder for Young People to Get an Abortion in Texas
Young people face all the same barriers that adults face in accessing abortion care, but in states like Texas, youth also face a parental consent law. Rosann Mariappuram , Executive Director of Jane’s Due Process, sits down to talk with us about this extra barrier to care, and what it looks like after the passage of the six-week abortion ban, SB8. While also having to navigate the labyrinth of general, state-based abortion restrictions (such as mandatory ultrasounds, 24-hour waiting periods, a lack of abortion clinics in the state, and taking time off work and school), those under 18 in Texas must also receive parental or guardian consent when accessing abortion care. For many young people this can be an especially difficult challenge. If consent cannot be obtained, young people must go through a judicial bypass, or speaking with a judge to obtain a court order to receive an abortion. Judicial bypass processes often involve extremely invasive questions meant to gauge young people’s “intelligence or emotional stability.” Judges ask questions about the pregnancy, family life, grades, and other personal concerns. Texas’s passage of the six-week abortion ban, SB8, has complicated the judicial bypass process. The process, which already required two to three weeks of careful legal counseling, is forcing Jane’s Due Process staff to work under a tighter schedule. Still, this legislation has left many teens unattended in their need for abortion care; in fact, during the first month of SB8’s passage, abortion care in the state dropped by 50%, and 70-90% for young people. Sex education is not required in the state of Texas, but if sex education is taught, the current curriculum does not necessitate the sharing of information on contraception and abortion, nor does the curriculum require LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Texas also has some of the worst maternal mortality rates in the U.S., especially for Black women. New research has shown that, while Black women make up only 11% of Texas births, they make up 30% of maternal deaths. With no inclusive and supportive sex education and an extremely troubling maternal mortality status, Texas does not prove a hospitable state for exercising one’s reproductive health. Abortion is incredibly difficult to access, especially after the passage of the six-week ban. Many patients are being forced to travel outside of the state and spend considerable amounts of money on transportation methods and overnight accommodations, while abortion funds and clinics are continuing to face increasing barriers to providing care, emotional and mental stress, and legal repercussions. Take Action Follow Jane’s Due Process on Facebook and Twitter here and stay up-to-date on their important work. Show love to abortion funds! You can find the abor
Tue, February 22, 2022
Everyone Loves Someone Who Had an Abortion: Abortion Storytellers Part 2
“We believe that everyone who has abortions deserves unconditional love and support. We believe that people who have abortions deserve to be in every space where decisions are being made. To borrow from the disability justice movement, there should be nothing about us without us. We are the leaders we’ve been waiting for.” -We Testify. For this incredibly special part two of our storytellers podcast series, tune in to hear the abortion stories of Kelsea McLain, Jack Qu’emi, and Veronika—abortion storytellers from We Testify. Links We Testify Sign up to receive We Testify newsletters We Testify on Twitter We Testify on Facebook Graphic artist Sage M Coffey Passing the Women’s Health Protection Act Would Be Magical Take Action Follow We Testify on Facebook and Twitter to keep up-to-date on their essential work. You can also sign up to receive We Testify newsletters here . You can also to get involved with We Testify, find more abortion stories , or share your abortion story . Love the episode art? Find more of graphic artist Sage M. Coffey’s work here ! The Senate will be voting on the Women’s Health Protection Act (WHPA) on February 28th. Call your Senators and tell them to support passing WHPA!! You can call the Senate Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thank
Tue, February 08, 2022
Everyone Loves Someone Who Had an Abortion: Abortion Storytellers Part 1
“We believe that everyone who has abortions deserves unconditional love and support. We believe that people who have abortions deserve to be in every space where decisions are being made. To borrow from the disability justice movement, there should be nothing about us without us. We are the leaders we’ve been waiting for.” -We Testify. For this incredibly special part one of our storytellers podcast series, tune in to hear the abortion stories of Anna, Sarah Lopez, Nick, and Stephanie Gomez—abortion storytellers from We Testify. Links We Testify Sign up to receive We Testify newsletters We Testify on Twitter We Testify on Facebook Graphic artist Sage M Coffey Take Action Follow We Testify on Facebook and Twitter to keep up-to-date on their essential work. You can also sign up to receive We Testify newsletters here . You can also to get involved with We Testify, find more abortion stories , or share your abortion story . Love the episode art? Find more of graphic artist Sage M. Coffey’s work here ! You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 25, 2022
It Just Got Easier to Get a Medication Abortion (Some Exceptions May Apply)
When the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved mifepristone--the first of two drugs used in a medication abortion-- in 2000, the approval process came with a myriad of restrictions. Kirsten Moore, creator and director of the Expanding Medication Abortion Access (EMAA) Project, sits down to talk with us about the evolution of restrictions on medication abortion over the past 22 years, as well as the future of medication abortion access. In the mid-2000s, these restrictions were folded into an FDA program called Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS). These restrictions included a certification process for the clinician, requires that the medication be dispensed in person in the clinic, hospital, or medical office, and patients must fill out a consent form. During the pandemic, the FDA issued guidance for medications subject to REMS, easing restrictions on providers and patients—but medications requiring in-person dispersal was not included. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) sued the FDA, leading to a short period of time in 2020 when providers were able to consult with patients and prescribe medication abortion care through telemedicine and the mail. In January of 2021, the Supreme Court shut these abilities down. Still, in spring of 2021, the FDA announced that they would re-consider the current REMS restrictions. In December of 2021, the FDA announced the removal of the in-person distribution requirement for mifepristone and allowing in-person and mail-order pharmacy distribution. Unfortunately, expanded medication abortion access will, like many reproductive health services, be dependent on where you live. At this moment, 19 states prohibit the use of telehealth for abortion care (the number of states may rise to 26 depending on the future of Roe v. Wade). Many patients who are seeking an abortion are already facing structural, financial, and logistical barriers that make accessing this care extremely difficult to begin with. Even so, the FDA’s lifting of unnecessary restrictions on medication abortion dismantles one less barrier to care for many. Links The EMAA Project on Facebook The EMAA Project on Twitter Blog post- Supporting a Friend’s Abortion At Home Take Action Follow the EMAA project on Facebook and Twitter here. Stay engaged in the fight to reduce barriers to medication abortion in individual states, and continue to talk about medication abortion as an option! Many people aren
Tue, January 11, 2022
Disability Rights and Reproductive Rights are About the Ability to Control One’s Own Body
The disability rights movement and reproductive rights movement both revolve around the ability to control one’s own body and life. Sam Crane , legal director at the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network, talks to us about the disability rights movement’s long history of facing reproductive rights and reproductive autonomy restrictions, and why centering the experiences and voices of people with disabilities will increase access to basic reproductive healthcare. People with disabilities have encountered an extensive history of attacks on their reproductive health, rights and justice through the eugenics movement, forced sterilization, guardianship, and institutionalization. And, unfortunately, people with disabilities continue to experience unique and disproportionate barriers to accessing reproductive health care each day. For example, legal rights and protections do not necessarily offer meaningful support, which will address people of color, LGBTQ+ people, people with low-incomes, and people with disabilities more acutely ( Roe v. Wade provides a theoretical right to abortion but does not address any logistical roadblocks to accessing care). Another barrier includes discrimination or stereotypes in healthcare settings (providers often do not ask people with disabilities about contraceptive options or abortion needs, and many people with disabilities may not trust healthcare providers due to the previously mentioned long history of attacks on reproductive health). Additionally, religious refusals prevent those with disabilities from attending healthcare appointments or taking contraception. There are also a variety of barriers those with disabilities face related to accessing reproductive healthcare. Many with disabilities rely on insurance coverage through Medicaid—but the Hyde amendment prevents federal dollars going toward coverage of abortion care. Lack of access to/ability to use transportation also prevents many from getting to the a healthcare provider. The ability for people with disabilities to not only be able to access reproductive healthcare, but be fully realized in their reproductive rights and bodily autonomy ties directly to the current state of reproductive health in the U.S. Any successful attack on Roe v. Wade will no doubt distinctively impact those who are the most marginalized. At all levels of government, policy must be passed that centers those with disabilities experiences accessing reproductive healthcare. At the federal level, applicable policy includes the EACH Act, the Women’s Health Protection Act, and the Home and Community-Based Services Access Act. Links Report: Access, Autonomy, and Digni
Tue, December 28, 2021
What a year!! Reproductive Rights and Transgender Rights Under Attack
Reproductive rights and the rights of transgender individuals are issues that are deeply rooted in bodily autonomy and have been under constant assault for the past year (and many years before). Jessica Mason Pieklo , Senior Vice President and Executive Editor at Rewire News Group and co-host of the Boom! Lawyered podcast and Katelyn Burns , columnist for MSNBC, writer for Medium, and co-host of podcast Cancel Me Daddy, talk to us about the ways in which these two issues are intertwined as well as the importance of supporting reproductive rights and transgender rights as their own, incredibly important individual human rights concerns. The same systems seek that seek to oppress transgender rights undoubtedly oppress reproductive rights, and vice versa. For example, the recent Texas abortion law, SB8, bans abortion at six weeks and empowers pseudo-vigilantism, allowing for the reporting of anyone who “aids and abets” someone in accessing an abortion for a financial incentive. Similarly, in 2015, a Texas state representative introduced a bill that would supply $2,000 bounties to those who turned in transgender students found in bathrooms. It’s also critical to remember, though, that reproductive rights and transgender rights should be able to stand strong as their own individual issues, and that both movement deserve support based on their own merits. In 2021, transgender rights faced a barrage of attacks. Most notably, conservative lawmakers have pushed legislation that would prevent transgender women and girls from competing in sports. Other bills attempted to ban trans adolescents from accessing gender-affirming medical care, such as puberty blockers. For abortion access, 2021 has been the most devastating year since before the passage of Roe v. Wade in 1973. On top of the six-week ban passed by Texas and the multiple copycat bills popping up in state legislatures around the U.S., attacks on abortion access have accelerated greatly over the past year due to the extremely conservative make-up of the federal court system. Ceaseless assaults on transgender rights and reproductive rights point toward an exceptionally concerning direction that federal and state governments are headed—one that directly challenges basic human rights, bodily autonomy, and the safety, wellbeing, and health of so many across the country. Links Jessica Mason Pieklo on Twitter Katelyn Burns on Twitter National Network of Abortion Funds map Boom! Lawyered podcast Cancel Me, Daddy podcast Take Action First, stay up-to-date on the newest writings about reproductive
Tue, December 14, 2021
How US Abortion Policy Harms Rape Survivors in Conflict Zones
Rape and other forms of sexual violence have been reported by health workers, human rights observers, and civilians in conflict zones, including Rwanda, Bosnia, Tigray, and Myanmar. Yet, survivors of these human rights abuses are rarely provided the sexual and reproductive healthcare they need. Jill Filipovic, freelance journalist and author of The H Spot: The Feminist Pursuit of Happiness and OK Boomer: Let’s Talk How My Generation Got Left Behind , talks to us about how U.S. foreign policy has prevented the support and care of women who have endured sexual violence in conflict zones. U.S. foreign policy, such as the global gag rule and the Helms amendment, have prevented U.S. dollars to fund safe abortions for rape survivors and refugees even in areas where abortion is legal. In fact, the Helms amendment dictates that no U.S. funding can be spent on abortion as a method of family planning. Even though the Helms amendment’s wording should exclude abortions needed as a result of rape or abortion for those whose lives and health are threatened, U.S. federal dollars still do not fund safe abortion care. The global gag rule prevents U.S. funding for family planning abroad from going to groups that perform abortion with their own non-U.S. money, advocate for abortion, or refer people for abortion care. The rule has a broad “chilling effect”, stigmatizing the procedure and preventing groups that receive U.S. funding from engaging in abortion-related activities. While the Biden/Harris admin has rescinded the global gag rule it is not a light switch, just because the policy is gone it does not mean its impacts are. (Learn more about why we must permanently repeal the global gag rule by checking out this episode of rePROs Fight Back from earlier this year ). As a result of U.S. law, many medical providers in conflict settings are able to offer post-abortion care—via the same medical machine or the same set of medications— but cannot offer an elective abortion, itself. Because women cannot access an elective abortion at the time needed, they may seek unsafe options and return to the medical provider for post-abortion care, after. This leads to increased rates of problems in pregnancy and childbirth, injury and death, loss of fertility, and more. Under the Trump administration, post-abortion care in conflict settings was scaled back, as well as radically expanded the global gag rule during the administration’s four years. Those who have experienced this trauma, which is rooted in a loss of control over one’s own physical safety and bodily autonomy, deserve control and ability to make personal decisions in the aftermath of a sexual assault. Ultimately, the U.S.’s policy must change to center the safety, health, and wellbeing of women and girls in conflict zones and to adhere to the principles outlined in the Women,
Tue, November 30, 2021
What Happens to Those Who are Turned Away From Accessing Abortion?
Note: This episode and the episode’s shownotes utilize the term “women,” when talking about the Turnaway study results, because women made up all of the participants. Many people, including trans men and non-binary individuals, still require access to safe and timely abortion care. On December 1st, 2021, the Supreme Court will be hearing oral arguments to Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization —a 15-week abortion ban out of Mississippi, which will put the ability to access abortion care out of reach for so many. Dr. Diana Greene Foster , researcher at the University of California, San Francisco and author of the Turnaway Study: Ten Years, A Thousand Women, and the Consequences of Having- or Being Denied- an Abortion , talks to us about her book on the study, the science and stories behind it, and why the upcoming Supreme Court case is a direct affront to reproductive health. The Turnaway Study began in 2007 as a way to answer whether or not abortion hurts women—an idea that has impacted policy for decades and has even underlined the Supreme Court’s decision to ban one type of abortion. The study followed a diverse set of participants from 30 U.S. facilities, comparing the outcomes of those who received abortions as compared to those who wanted them but couldn’t get them. For five years, participants were interviewed on their physical health, mental health, socioeconomic wellbeing, and life outcomes. The study quickly found the opposite to be true; limiting access to abortion led to women experiencing significant risks to their physical health, financial health, and life outcomes. Medical literature has made clear that carrying a pregnancy to term is associated with much greater health risk than having an abortion, which was confirmed by the study. Tragically, two study participants died as a result of not being able to access an abortion, while many reported higher rates of chronic pain, hypertension, and short-term mental health concerns. Additionally, women denied abortion care were much more likely to end up living below the federal poverty level, more likely to receive public assistance, more likely to be in situations of domestic violence, and less likely to set and achieve aspirational plans. People who received their wanted abortion had a higher rate of later intended pregnancies—increasing the likelihood that, down the line, participants had wanted and healthier pregnancies with better partners, more support, and when they were ready. Finally, the children of mothers who received an abortion experienced better outcomes as well, with less likelihood of living in poverty, and increased likelihood of achieving developmental milestones. Links The Turnaway Study: Ten Years, A Thousand Women, a
Tue, November 16, 2021
Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Hero Origin Stories: Round 4
It’s that time of year again—time to tune in for a reprisal of our most popular series! Longtime supporters of rePROs Fight Back have likely heard our past podcast episodes, SRHR Hero Origin Stories , SRHR Hero Origin Stories: Round 2 , and SRHR Hero Origin Stories: Round 3, where we talked to a number of amazing heroes in the field of reproductive health, rights, and about how they began working in this space. This time, hear from abortion and sexual reproductive healthcare clinicians and providers themselves about their experiences and history working in this field. Guests include: Rae Pickett, Director of Communications - Virginia League for Planned Parenthood Dr. Jennifer Chin - Fellow with Physicians for Reproductive Health Dr. Christina Bourne – Trust Women Wichita Dr. Toni Marengo – Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest Dr. Deyang Nyandak - Fellow with Physicians for Reproductive Health Take Action Follow these organizations on social media and keep up-to-date on their amazing work! Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest Facebook and Twitter Virginia League for Planned Parenthood on Facebook and Twitter Trust Women on Facebook and Twitter Physicians for Reproductive Health on Facebook and Twitter You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast</a
Tue, November 02, 2021
From Texas to Mississippi: Roe is in Trouble at SCOTUS
(note recorded before the oral arguments in Texas case) On Monday, November 1st, 2021, the Supreme Court heard arguments on Texas’s extreme and dangerous abortion ban, SB8. Ianthe Metzger , Director of State Media Campaigns with the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, sits down to talk with us about abortion access in Texas, the Texas SCOTUS case, and the upcoming Mississippi case in December that could threaten the very foundation of Roe v. Wade . Currently, in Texas, the state has continued to maintain its six-week abortion ban, SB8. The law is particularly unique in that it allows anyone to be able to sue those who assist in the provision or accessing of abortion care. To learn more in depth about Texas’s law, find rePROs Fight Back’s podcast episode here . The U.S. Department of Justice has brought the case to the Supreme Court, which will have, at the airing of this podcast episode, been heard on Monday, November 1st, 2021. During the hearings, the Court will be considering whether the federal government has the right to sue to block a state’s enforcement of such a law. Additionally, the Court will be assessing the specifics of the enforcement structure in a case brought by abortion providers. On December 1st, 2021, the Supreme Court will be hearing Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization . The law will be brought in front of the Court by the Center for Reproductive Rights in an effort to challenge Mississippi’s fifteen-week abortion ban that is currently blocked from going into effect. The state of Mississippi has explicitly asked the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade , the 1973 decision guaranteeing the constitutional right to abortion. Allowing this law to go into effect would overturn the core holding of Roe and will no doubt open the floodgates to allow similar states to pass restrictive abortion legislation. In fact, 26 states are currently poised to ban abortion if Roe is overturned, possibly affecting 36 million women, trans men, and nonbinary folk’s access to abortion care. If Roe v. Wade were to be overturned, patients in those 26 states will face decreased or nonexistent access to abortion care, be forced to travel hundreds of miles to visit an abortion provider, and place additional strain on the abortion clinics in states that will see an increase in out-of-state patient visits. It would also place an enormous, additional emotional weight on the staff of reproductive health clinics. It’s important to remember that Roe v. Wade is the floor, not the ceiling. Abortion access is, for so may around the country, a right on paper only. That being said, Roe is an important safeguard for abortion’s constitutionality and continued access. The Women’s Health Protec
Tue, October 19, 2021
Purity Culture, Sexual Assault, and Christian Colleges: A Toxic Mix
Purity culture, or the expectation that women remain sexually “pure,” is widespread throughout evangelical communities. Purity culture stems from the idea that men are inherently sexual beings and that women are not, placing the burden on women to be the gatekeepers of sexuality in evangelical communities, as well as to “control” the desires of men. Becca Andrews , reporter with Mother Jones Magazine, talks to us about purity culture and sexual assault at Christian colleges, with an in-depth look at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. To better understand what is happening at Christian colleges like Moody Bible Institute, it’s important to first understand Title IX. Any school in the U.S. that accepts federal funding must follow Title IX guidelines, which address discrimination on the basis of gender in educational institutions. Title IX has religious exemptions which allows schools to still follow the broad tenets of Title IX while being able to skirt issues that conflict with their religious beliefs. Betsy DeVos, Secretary of Education during the Trump administration, expanded and broadened these religious exemptions so that any school could claim religious exemption, even if a complaint made it all the way to the Office of Civil Rights at the Department of Education they can retroactively make the religious exemption claim. Moody Bible Institute has a history of Title IX infractions; for example, the school has kept women from participating in pastoral programs up until 2017, and they have also faced claims of discriminatory employee termination. In October of 2020, multiple students from Moody Bible Institute compiled their stories of sexual assault in a Google document, eventually crating a Change.org petition for their school to address its failings. These students were continually dismissed and paternalized by Moody’s dean, felt that the Title IX office mishandled their cases, were not presented with the appropriate resources or support for their cases, and reported that most communications and procedures regarding their cases were held within the context of the school’s deep-rooted purity culture. Becca’s article follows multiple students who bravely shared their stories of assault, abuse, harassment, discrimination, and lack of systemic support from Moody Bible Institute—all of which stems from the rampant purity culture that undergirds the programming and culture at Christian schools. Links They Went to Bible College to Deepen Their Faith. Then They Were Assaulted—and Blamed for It. Becca Andrews on Twitter <a href='https://www.mother
Tue, October 05, 2021
A Patchwork of Access: Young People Deserve Better
Young people deserve access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare—but those needs aren’t always easy to acquire in the United States. Diana Thu-Thao Rhodes , Vice President of Policy, Partnerships, and Organizing at Advocates for Youth, sits down to talk with us about the barriers young people face when in need of sex education and sexual and reproductive health services. Young people’s access to sex education in the United States isn’t a pretty picture; a patchwork of legislation at the federal and state level impact sex education, meaning there isn’t an overarching federal bill that mandates safe sex education. State policies include a wide-range of practices—for example, 39 states and D.C. mandate some form of sex education or HIV education, but what is included in those lesson plans vary across the country. State-by-state and school-district-by-school-district lessons could be abstinence-based, abstinence-stressed, or must include teachings on certain topics, leading to entirely different education experiences based on where young people live and go to school. On top of facing a patchwork of sex education legislation, young people feel disproportionate barriers to accessible sexual and reproductive healthcare. Many young people may not feel that they can make their parents aware of their healthcare needs, may not have access to transportation or money, or may not feel supported by the current health infrastructure where they live if they are transgender or gender expansive. Similar barriers make young people jump through a variety of hoops to access abortion care, as well. In addition, if a young person does not want to inform a parent or guardian in a state that requires parental notification, young people must seek a judicial bypass, a legal process that necessitates permission from a judge to receive the procedure. Six-week abortion bans, like the one recently passed in Texas, will undoubtedly and unduly impact young people who need access to abortion care. To better support young people in their access to sexual and reproductive healthcare and sex education, we must advocate for policies that ensure young people’s confidentiality when accessing sexual health services, pass legislation that expands sexual health service access across the country such as the Real Education and Access for Healthy Youth Act (REAHYA) and the Women’s Health Protection Act (WHPA), address state-by-state patchwork comprehensive sex education legislation, remove forced parental-involvement laws, allowance of over-the-counter oral contraception without age restriction, and strengthen protections for LGBTQ youth and gender-affirming healthcare. A culture shift is required to support the health and rights of young people—young people’s sexuality is a natural part of adolescent development and cannot be shamed, ignored, or met with silence. Links Advocates for
Tue, September 21, 2021
Clinics Forced to Turn Patients Away Under Texas's Unconstitutional Abortion Ban
On September 1st, 2021, Texas effectively banned abortion in the state. Amy Hagstrom Miller , founder and CEO of Whole Woman’s Health and Whole Woman’s Health Alliance, sits down to talk to us about the tremendous stress that Texas’s new legislation has already had on patients, abortion providers, clinic staff, and abortion funds. Texas’s SB8 outlaws abortion care after six weeks of pregnancy—far before many people even know they are pregnant and before many people can even receive an abortion appointment due to the pre-existing restrictive laws in Texas. Because they are so blatantly unconstitutional, six-week abortion bans have been knocked down in twelve states before Texas. The statute also empowers Texas residents to become pseudo-vigilantes, reporting anyone who “aids and abets” someone in accessing an abortion. The Supreme Court allowed the law to be enforced on September 2nd. For more detailed information on the Texas law, check out our past podcast episode here . This new ruling will force patients to drive out-of-state to receive basic abortion care, putting a burden on the healthcare infrastructure of neighboring states like New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas. The law also puts an enormous emotional weight on the staff of clinics like Whole Woman’s Health, who are being forced to tell patients that they cannot receive the abortion care that they need. Links Whole Woman’s Health on Twitter Whole Woman’s Health on Facebook Whole Woman’s Health Alliance on Twitter Whole Woman’s Health Alliance on Facebook Amy Hagstom Miller on Twitter Why Texas’s New Abortion Law and the Upcoming SCOTUS Case are Stressing Us Out Podcast Take Action Items Firstly, follow Whole Woman’s Health on Twitter and Facebook and Whole Woman’s Health Alliance on Twitter and Facebook here. Continue having open, honest, and, positive conversations about safe and legal abortion access. If you can, donate to people doing work on the front lines in Texas, including Whole Woman’s Health and Whole Woman’s Health alliance. You can find a list of Texas abortion funds here and Keep Our Clinics <a href='https://keepourc
Tue, September 07, 2021
Did You Know UNFPA Plays a Critical Role in Humanitarian Settings?
Afghanistan’s fall to the Taliban and the destruction caused to Haiti by a 7.92 magnitude earthquake have created two simultaneously unfolding humanitarian situations. Rachel Moynihan , Advocacy and Communications Specialist at the United Nations, sits down with us to discuss the work that UNFPA does to support and expand access to sexual and reproductive health and rights for populations in humanitarian settings, and how UNFPA is assisting in Afghanistan and Haiti specifically. UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the UN’s sexual and reproductive health agency founded 50 years ago. UNFPA has three goals: 1) to end the unmet need of voluntary family planning; 2) to end preventable maternal deaths, and 3) to end gender-based violence. UNFPA is active in over 150 countries and territories, working in multiple humanitarian settings. UNFPA is able to gather the political will to address the reproductive health and rights needs of people in humanitarian settings while also providing critical on-the-ground services, supplies, and care. The COVID-19 pandemic and climate disasters have further stressed the ability for UNFPA to reach populations that may be in need of sexual and reproductive health care, menstrual products, and protection from gender-based violence. Lockdowns, layoffs, and inability to attend school have increased rates of abuse, child marriage, female genital cutting. In 2018, 1600 women per 100,000 were dying in childbirth Afghanistan, leading UNFPA to train 35 young women in the Gorom Harat region to become maternal midwives. Now, that rate hovers around 600. While that rate is still high, it’s lowering is due to safe maternal care and delivery services largely supported by UNFPA programming. UNFPA has also established 171 “family health houses” that provide 24/7 maternal health care in Afghanistan. If you’d like to hear more about the impact the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan may have on women and girls, you can find our recent podcast episode here . On August 14th, a 7.92 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti on the same fault line that caused a similarly devastating earthquake ten years prior. This earthquake, in the shadow of the pandemic, a recent presidential assassination, and consistent food insecurity and gang violence, has compounded the country’s humanitarian crisis. Over 200,000 people lost their lives in the earthquake, with 10,000 injured. Because hospitals have experienced severe damage, UNFPA has rushed supplies into Haiti, set-up mobile teams and distributed reproductive health kits. Links UNFPA on Facebook UNFPA on Twitter Take Action Follow UNFPA on
Tue, August 24, 2021
What Afghanistan's Unfolding Humanitarian Crisis Means for Women and Girls
As Afghanistan falls to the Taliban, a humanitarian crisis is quickly unfolding in the country. Hundreds of thousands of individuals have been displaced, with women and girls making up 80 percent of those displaced individuals. Gayatri Patel, Vice President for External Relations at the Women’s Refugee Commission, sits down to talk with us about the situation unfolding in Afghanistan, what it means for women and girls, and what we can do to help. Currently, there’s an urgent need to get people out of Afghanistan due to the ongoing conflict coupled with a major drought and ongoing impacts of Covid. Additionally, there is a growing humanitarian crisis of over 500,000 people that are internally displaced—they have left their homes in an effort to flee the Taliban, or their homes have been destroyed. All border crossing stations are controlled by the Taliban, making escape routes out of the country only possible by air. This makes shelter, food, and primary health services resources that are urgently needed by those in Afghanistan. These impacts of humanitarian crises are also disproportionately felt by women and girls, who also experience lack of access to sexual and reproductive health services, lack of access to education, and increased rates of gender-based violence. Over the last twenty years, women and girls in Afghanistan have gone to school, worked, accessed critical health care, and become leaders. As the Taliban has taken over the country and Afghanistan’s government has fallen, those rights have been pulled back—in fact, there are reports of increased rates of sexual violence and forced marriage, women and girls being barred from schools and workplaces, and women and girls being forced to receive permission from male relatives to leave the home. The international community must step up to support refugees from Afghanistan, without caps or quotas. The U.S. government can also ensure the safe evacuation of many women leaders by surging support for visa processing, securing routes to airports, and more. Survivors of gender-based violence, which is on the rise, need increased support. This includes medical care, psychosocial care, and assistance in finding work. Links Women’s Refugee Commission statement on the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan Women’s Refugee Commission Afghanistan Resource Page Advocacy and Support toolkit CARE Action – Support Afghanistan campaign Coalition to End Violence Against Women and Girls Sign-On letter Take Action <
Tue, August 10, 2021
Why Texas's New Abortion Law and the Upcoming SCOTUS Case are Stressing Us Out
It’s no secret that 2021 has seen endless attacks on abortion access. Most notably, Texas is attempting to not only ban abortion at six weeks but allow anyone in the U.S. to sue any person involved in providing abortion care or helping someone in Texas access abortion care. Jessica Mason Pieklo , Senior Vice President and Executive Editor at Rewire News Group and co-host of Boom! Lawyered podcast, talks to us about the abortion ban out of Texas and the critical Mississippi case making its way in front of the Supreme Court in the fall. Texas’ new (but not in effect yet) abortion ban that would ban the procedure at six weeks, before most people are aware they are pregnant. Normally, abortion bans like this require the enforcement of a state-actor, such as an attorney general or prosecutor. Instead, this statute empowers anyone as able to enforce this law. In short, Texas’ new law allows citizens to become pseudo-vigilantes, allowing the reporting of anyone who “aids and abets” someone in accessing an abortion. “Aiding and abetting” could include helping someone pay for care, driving someone to an appointment, or watching someone’s children while they attend an appointment. If this law goes into effect, patients in Texas would be forced to leave the state in order to access care. The law will also force abortion funds and other organizations to re-assess whether they feel able to operate. This fall, the Supreme Court will hear a case that proves a direct challenge to Roe v. Wade. Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey has previously established the unconstitutionality of Mississippi’s recent 15-week abortion ban, yet the Supreme Court has decided to hear it, signaling a troubling outcome. While it takes four justices to decide to take a case, it takes five justices to decide to change the law. Because no federal courts have disagreed with precedent before, there’s little reason why the conservative justices would want to take this case without the desire to change the law. With a 6-3 conservative majority on the Supreme Court, this case proves to be particularly frightening. If the Supreme Court upholds Mississippi’s 15-week ban, Louisiana’s 15-week ban will also go into effect. It is likely that the language used to uphold these bans would be applied to 12-week bans, 8-week bans, and 6-week bans across the U.S. Links Rewire News Group on Twitter Rewire News Group on Facebook Jessica Mason Pieklo on Twitter In Texas, Abortion Snitches Don’t Get Stitches—They Get $10,000 Take Action Follow Rewire News Group on Facebook and <a href='https://twitter.com/RewireNe
Tue, July 27, 2021
Passing the Women’s Health Protection Act Would be Magical
It’s no secret that state legislatures across the country are working tirelessly to restrict access to abortion care. From forcing patients to travel to neighboring states to stigma-based counseling sessions, accessing an abortion comes with countless hurdles. Jackie Blank , Federal Legislative Strategist and Campaign Manager for the Women’s Health Protection Act Campaign at the Center for Reproductive Rights, talks to us about how the Women’s Health Protection Act will ensure reproductive choice, bodily autonomy, and access to care in a time where abortion faces an unprecedented attack. Abortion is legal in all 50 states, but in 2021 alone, 90 abortion restrictions have been passed in legislatures across the country. Coverage of abortion care also faces extreme restrictions; the Hyde amendment prevents Medicaid, Medicare, and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) recipients from covering abortion at the federal level ( Some states, 16, have a policy that directs Medicaid to cover all medically necessary abortions ). These restrictions have created a state-based patchwork of care, forcing many to travel between states, traveling long distances within their own states, or being blocked from accessing abortion care altogether. This has disproportionate impact on communities that have historically been denied access to care, including Black communities, indigenous communities, communities of color, women, low-income people, those with disabilities, those living rurally, and LGBTQ+ folks. The Women’s Health Protection Act (WHPA) would create a federal safeguard against laws (like Texas’ S.B. 8) that are meant to restrict access. By preventing the singling out of abortion care as opposed to other types of healthcare, WHPA would prevent impeding of access. WHPA specifically enumerates the types of bans that would violate the right to abortion care, including court rulings. In fact, WHPA would protect access to care even if Roe v. Wade were to be overturned. If WHPA were to be passed, patients wouldn’t have to be subject to limitations like stigma-based counseling, multiple trips to a provider, or expensive childcare costs. Links Center for Reproductive Rights on Twitter Center for Reproductive Rights on Facebook More Information on the Women’s Health Protection Act S.1645 - Women’s Health Protection Act of 2019 Take Action Follow Center for Reproductive Rights on Facebook and Twitter to stay up-to-date on their critical work. It’s time to g
Tue, July 13, 2021
From Communion to the Courts: Reproductive Health and the Catholic Church
Reproductive health and the Catholic church have been heavily featured in the current news—from the Fulton v. Philadelphia Supreme Court case to the U.S Conference of Catholic Bishops moving to deny President Joe Biden, who is Catholic, the sacrament of communion. Jamie Manson , President of Catholics for Choice, talks to us about these recent instances of the Catholic Church’s reach over sexual and reproductive health and rights. The Fulton v. Philadelphia Supreme Court case involved Catholic Social Services, a foster care center, which was contracted with the city of Philadelphia. The city upheld non-discrimination laws which prohibiting it from contracting with discriminatory social services agencies. Catholic Social Services expressly stated that they would not engage in any services with same-sex couples or unmarried couples, leading the city of Philadelphia to sever its contract and Catholic Social Services to sue the city under the first amendment. Ultimately, the Supreme Court unanimously ruled in favor of Catholic Social Services in an extremely narrow ruling. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has been in animus with current President Joe Biden’s support of abortion rights and policy, even though President Biden is a devout and practicing Catholic. Since the day his Presidency was called, the bishops have been outspoken against his administration. In November, the bishops established a special committee to explore the confusion that Biden’s status as a pro-choice Catholic president could create within the church. The committee voted to create a document that bans Catholic and pro-choice elected officials from receiving the holy sacrament of communion. The U.S. Conference of Bishops will vote on the passage of this document in November and will need a two-thirds majority vote for success. Links Catholics for Choice on Twitter Catholics for Choice on Facebook More Information on Fulton v. Philadelphia How Your Catholic Hospital is Restricting Your Care Podcast Episode Take Action Follow Catholics for Choice on Facebook and Twitter here. You can write to Bishops who have spoken out against the move to restrict communion from pro-choice elected officials. You can also write to President Biden and Catholic Congresspeople and thank them for their support of abortion rights. You can also learn more about Catholic hospitals <a href='https://www.reprosfightback.com/episodes-blog/how-your-catholic-hospital-is-restrict
Tue, June 29, 2021
Demystifying Self-Managed Abortion
When many people hear the term ‘self-managed abortion,’ they may think unsafe abortion or pre-Roe v. Wade methods of terminating a pregnancy. Nowadays, self-managed medication abortion is extremely safe, effective, and can be done in the comfort and privacy of one’s own home. Erin Matson , Executive Director of Reproaction, sits down to talk with us about the myths, barriers to care, and the actions folks can take around self-managed abortion. Self-managed abortion refers to when somebody ends their pregnancy outside of a medical setting. “The World Health Organization (WHO) has put misoprostol on the list of essential medicines and created a protocol for how women may manage their abortion with misoprostol without direct provider supervision.” Many choose to end their pregnancies outside of clinic settings due to immigration status, fear of being misgendered or patronized by clinic staff, or fear of protestors. Despite the fact that medication abortion has been approved by the FDA for over 20 years, providers who wish to dispense medication abortion have to jump through extra logistical hoops to do so. Patients themselves face an in-person dispensing requirement, meaning they have to be physically handed the medications by their doctor rather than picking them up at a pharmacy (during the pandemic, the Biden administration has repealed that rule so that folks can access medication abortion through telemedicine and not expose themselves unnecessarily to COVID-19). The FDA has also announced that it will be conducting a formal review of the restrictions set in place for medication abortion. Abortion pill “reversal” is an unsubstantiated claim that a medication abortion can be reversed with progesterone. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says there’s no evidence that this procedure is effective. It’s misinformation like this, though, that permeates the public understanding of abortion and erects more barriers to care. Links Reproaction on Twitter Reproaction on Facebook Reproaction information on self-managed abortion What do Bridges, Roads, and Abortions Have in Common? – article by Erin Matson How to Spot a Fake Clinic Take Action You can follow Reproaction on Twitter and Facebook and stay up-to-date on their work. Educate yourself on ho
Bonus · Mon, June 21, 2021
End the Global Gag Rule: Pass Global HER Now
The Global Gag Rule has been intermittently preventing global communities from accessing comprehensive healthcare for the last 37 years. This Global Gag Rule Repeal Week of Action, it’s important to recognize that ending this harmful policy is extremely urgent. Rebecca Dennis , Senior Legislative Policy Analyst at PAI, sits down to update us on the Global Gag Rule, the impacts it has had around the world, and what we can do to make sure it is repealed once and for all. The Global Gag Rule is an executive-level policy that has existed under every Republican presidential administration since Ronald Reagan, but was vastly expanded under Donald Trump. The policy under Trump withheld global health assistance funding from foreign NGOs unless they agree to not use any of their own, non-U.S. funding to provide abortions or any information, education, counseling, or referrals for abortion care. This was a huge expansion compared to under previous administrations where it only applied to family planning funding. To learn more about the history of the Global Gag Rule, find our podcast episode here ! The Global Gag Rule has prevented people around the world from accessing sexual and reproductive health care, maternal and child health care, HIV testing and treatment, tuberculosis and malaria testing and treatment, and nutrition programs. It has limited which commodities—including methods of contraception—can reach communities, and caused organizations to have to end entire programs. The rule has also restricted outreach to hard-to-reach communities, including young people, LGBTQI+ people, and those living in very rural areas or refugee camps. For many years, the policy only applied to U.S. family planning and reproductive health programs. But after the Trump administration’s entry into the Oval Office in January of 2017, one of their first executive actions included re-instating and massively expanding the Global Gag Rule to impact all U.S. global health assistance funding. This expansion went above and beyond USAID, ultimately impacting programs in the State Department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The administration expanded it a second time, changing the interpretation of the policy and forcing organizations that were complying with the policy to ensure that any of their partnerships were complying, as well even if they did not get any impacted U.S. health funding. In January of 2021, the Biden-Harris administration repealed the Global Gag Rule. Despite this momentous step, the policy is not a light switch that can be turned on and off. Many organizations who did not comply with the rule now have to wait until there are additional funding opportunities with the U.S. government, while some are concerned that the policy might return and interrupt their work, again. Eve
Tue, June 15, 2021
DC Statehood is a Reproductive Justice Issue
Did you know that in a 2016 referendum, 86% of D.C. residents voted in favor of statehood? Dr. Serina Floyd, OB/GYN and Medical Director/Vice President of Medical Services at Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, D.C. and Kory Stuer , Public Affairs Manager at Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, D.C, sit down to talk with us about the importance of statehood for Washington, D.C., and what it would mean for the reproductive health, rights, and justice of D.C. residents. Washington, D.C., is a district of more than 700,000 tax-paying residents, all of whom do not have basic democratic rights-- including voting representation in Congress. D.C. residents also do not have control over how tax dollars are spent at the local-level, meaning members of Congress can block or overturn any D.C.-based bills. D.C’s lack of statehood has a direct impact on the public health of its residents. The district has high levels of inequity in health outcomes, with those who are most marginalized also experiencing the highest rates of health inequalities. For example, D.C.’s maternal mortality rate for Black residents is so high that it the district has the 5th worst overall rate in the country, 50% higher than the national average. The D.C. Council has introduced the Maternal Health Resources and Access Act, which, if passed, will respond to this crisis, and improve access through multiple mechanisms. The recent release of the President’s budget repealed the Hyde amendment and the D.C. abortion ban (this ban refers to a separate appropriations rider that prevents the District from using their own tax dollars for funding abortion care). In 2017, young people between the ages of 13 and 24 accounted for 41% of HIV diagnoses in D.C.; double the national average. Yet, members of Congress have routinely voted for bills that prevent young people from accessing sexual and reproductive health care without their parent’s consent and stymied needle exchange programs. Lack of D.C. statehood has no doubt impact the district when it comes to COVID-19. Black residents have made up 50% of COVID cases and 70% of deaths yet have only received 37% of vaccinations. There is current legislation that has a historic level of support led by Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton in the House and Senator Tom Carper in the Senate. The bill, the Washington, D.C. Admission Act, creates a new state out of the specifically residential areas. You can learn more about it here . Links Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, D.C. on Facebook Planne
Bonus · Wed, June 09, 2021
How U.S. Policy Impacts LGBTQI+ People Around the World
Under the Trump administration, global LGBTQI+ health and rights faced an unprecedented assault. Andrea Gillespie, Sexual Health and Rights Policy Advisor with the American Jewish World Service (AJWS), sits down to talk with us about progress made by the Biden-Harris administration and what pieces of legislation we can advance to prevent backsliding. Under the Trump administration, global LGBTQI+ rights were facing unprecedented attack. In fact, those serving in the Trump administration had long records of opposing LGBTQI+ rights and reproductive rights—including officials at the U.S. State Department and USAID. The State Department attempted to erase the reality of global sexual and reproductive health and rights, removing the term “sexual and reproductive health and rights” altogether from their Annual Human Rights Reports. The removal of this topic from the reports limited our comprehensive understanding and tracking of reproductive health and rights progress for LGBTQI+ people around the world. Then-Secretary Mike Pompeo’s Commission on Unalienable Rights sought to re-define and cherry-pick human rights, with the health and rights of LGBTQI+ individuals at the bottom of the ladder. Trump’s drastically expanded Global Gag Rule also worsened the barriers that LGBTQI+ individuals faced when accessing healthcare, including HIV treatment and prevention. The Biden administration has begun putting in place policies that work to repair and support LGBTQI+ health and rights. President Biden rescinded the expanded Global Gag Rule during his first week in office. In early February, when President Biden visited the State Department for the first time, his comments centered the health and rights of LGBTQI + individuals and, shortly after, the White Memorandum on Advancing the Human Rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex Persons Around the World was released. The Biden-Harris administration has also recognized and released statements on Trans-Visibility Day and International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia. In order to prevent backsliding on global LGBTQI+ health and rights, we must repeal the Global Gag Rule for good. The Global HER Act would permanently repeal this harmful policy, allowing LGBTQI+ people to have expanded access to abortion services and other reproductive health care. Similarly, the Helms amendment must be repealed in order to make sure all people have the ability to access the care that they need. During appropriations season, it’s also important to direct funding to LGBTQI+ rights programs, including those run from the State Department and USAID that fight to shift norms, end discrimination, and provide safety and security. Lastly, the Greater Leadership Overseas for the Benefit of Equality (GLOBE) Act, sponsored by Representative Dina Titus [D-NV-1] would recognize the impact of foreign policy tools on LGBTQ+ rights. Links
Tue, June 01, 2021
Ending Hyde is a Step Towards Abortion Justice
What does a world that has achieved abortion justice look like? It has access to a full spectrum of reproductive health care, where abortion is affordable, accessible, safe, de-stigmatized, without barriers, and never based on income or zip code. Daniela Ochoa Diaz , Federal Strategies Manager with All* Above All, sits down to talk with us about what we need to accomplish to reach abortion justice for all. Abortion justice applies a justice lens to abortion care and access, applying how economic and systemic insecurity and immigration status multiply the barriers to care. All* Above All’s Abortion Justice Campaign features four pillars: 1) strategy accelerators; 2) narrative shapers; 3) policy movers; and 4) network builders. Strategy accelerators build momentum and power by sharing tools and resources with partners at all levels. Narrative shapers shift the cultural narrative and public perception on abortion. Policy movers push proactive abortion policy at all levels of government. Network builders bring partners together in a way that builds across movements. Living in a world that has achieved abortion justice requires reaching out to and engaging with local, state, and federal elected officials, organization and activation, and having empowered conversations with friends and family. It also calls for removing abortion restrictions in individual states and repealing the Hyde amendment—a 1976 appropriations amendment that blocks federal funding for abortion care, meaning those who receive health insurance coverage via the Medicare program have to pay out-of-pocket for an abortion. The Hyde amendment expands to Indian Health Services, the District of Columbia, those who work in the federal government, and those serving in the U.S. military and the Peace Corps. The Equal Access To Abortion Coverage in Health Insurance (EACH) Act would repeal the Hyde amendment. The re-introduction of the EACH Act this Congressional session showed a record number of original co-sponsors. A clean Presidential budget would provide a blueprint for appropriations committees in the House and Senate to construct bills without the Hyde amendment. Passing the EACH Act and having a clean presidential budget would push the U.S. towards achieving abortion justice once and for all. Links All* Above All on Twitter All* Above All on Facebook Past podcast episode on the Hyde Amendment. EACH Act Fact Sheet Take Action Follow All* Above All on <a href='https://
Bonus · Thu, May 20, 2021
The Supreme Court Case that Threatens Roe
On Monday, May 17th, the Supreme Court announced that they would hear a court case, Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (JWHO) , out of Mississippi that seeks to ban almost all abortion at 15 weeks or later. Dr. Daniel Grossman , obstetrician/gynecologist, Professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at the University of California San Francisco, and Director of a policy-based research program within the OB/GYN Department entitled Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), sits down with us in this emergency podcast episode to discuss the gestational bans at the center of the case that strikes at the heart of Roe. The Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v JWHO could open the option for individual states to impose abortion bans before fetal viability, —a core tenant that is explicitly protected in the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. 15 weeks is a significant amount of time before viability (which can range 24 to 28 weeks after a person’s last menstrual period). Gestational bans have become increasingly common across the U.S., acting as yet another time-limit on people’s access to get abortion care. The majority of patients that are most impacted by these restrictions are Black, indigenous, people of color, living at or below the federal poverty level, young, and/or LGBTQ. This blatantly unconstitutional ban was passed with the goal of getting in front of the Supreme Court, which now has a 6-3 conservative majority. The Justices will have the case presented to them next session, which begins in October. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 18, 2021
Let's Get Proactive About Expanding Abortion Access!
While Roe v. Wade may be the law of the land, abortion has always been inaccessible and a right on paper only for so many in the United States. Since the passage of Roe, there have been 1,200 abortion restrictions enacted, with 2021 on track to be one of the worst years for abortion restrictions. Jamille Fields-Allsbrook , Director of Women’s Health and Rights at the Center for American Progress and Nora Ellmann , Research Associate for Women’s Health and Rights at the Center for American Progress, sit down to talk with us about what actions need to be taken to ensure a proactive abortion agenda for the U.S. from their report, A Proactive Abortion Agenda: Federal and State Policies To Protect and Expand Access . First and foremost, the comprehensive right to abortion, without restriction and without political interference, must be codified at the legislative level. Championing laws like the Women’s Health Protection Act would help block many of these restrictions, such as 20-week bans and targeted regulation of abortion provider (TRAP) laws. Financial support for abortion access is also critical; passage of the Equal Access to Abortion Coverage in Health Insurance (EACH) Act would permanently repeal the Hyde Amendment and prohibits political interference with decisions by private insurance companies to cover abortion. Individual states can repeal harmful legislation and pass proactively progressive legislation to expand access to medication abortion, decriminalize self-managed abortion, and remove restrictions on physicians. At the executive level, it’s important that they select judicial nominees that are diverse and have backgrounds in civil rights, reproductive rights, and abortion rights. The President must also have a budget that doesn’t allow for federal funding restrictions, like the Hyde Amendment, on abortion access. Finally, undue regulations on abortion-related insurance billing practices must be repealed. Already, the current administration has increased access to medication abortion during the COVID-19 pandemic. To learn more about this step taken by the Biden administration, listen to our podcast episode here . When it comes to the judiciary: we need to pay attention to the courts! Again, it’s critical that judges appointed to all levels of the U.S. court system come from diverse backgrounds and have supportive records for reproductive health, rights, and justice. The courts must continue to uphold precedent and respect abortion as a right that has been established under the Constitution. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 <a
Tue, May 04, 2021
The Biden Administration's First 100 Days: Accomplishments, Shortcomings, and Next Steps
We have just passed 100 days of the Biden-Harris Administration! Christina Krysinski , Counsel and Senior Manager of Policy at NARAL Pro-Choice America sits down to talk with us about the reproductive health and rights victories achieved during this period, as well as what the administration can do more of to ensure health and rights for all. In his second week in office, President Biden ended the Trump administration’s expanded global gag rule (also known as the Mexico City policy), and also began the process of restoring funding to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in order to restore access to sexual and reproductive health care around the world. The President also withdrew U.S. support for the Trump administration’s anti-choice, anti-LGBTQ Geneva Consensus Declaration, sending the message that the United States will no longer be a barrier to progress for reproductive freedom. Lastly, during the release of the State Department’s 2020 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the U.S. will resume reporting on reproductive rights. Domestically, the Biden administration has also made significant strides in expanding and protecting sexual and reproductive health and rights. This month, the FDA announced that it will stop enforcing a restriction that would force people accessing medication abortion pills to do so in-person at a hospital, clinic, or doctor’s office for the duration of the pandemic. The administration proposed the ending of the Trump administration’s “domestic gag rule,” which prevented reproductive health providers that are funded by the nation’s Title X program from providing transparent and equitable care. The White House also officially established the Gender Policy Council, which will work to advance gender equity and sexual and reproductive health and rights. The administration has also appointed officials that are committed to protecting reproductive health and rights both globally and domestically, including the Vice President Kamala Harris, The Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, Assistant Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine (the first openly transgender, Senate-confirmed federal official), United States Assistant Attorney General Venita Gupta, nominee for Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Kristen Clarke, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, UN Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, and USAID Administrator Samantha Power. While the Biden administration has accomplished much for reproductive health and rights, there is still so much more that needs to be done. Many organizations and groups continue to call for an increased sense of urgency from the administration. President Biden and other federal officials have yet to say the word “abortion” in a public address; doing so recognizes the reality of the abortion access crisis and contributes to de-stigmatizatio
Tue, April 20, 2021
Biden-Harris Administration Takes First Steps to Strengthen Both Title X and Medication Abortion Access
Last week the Biden took two actions to expand access to reproductive health care: the FDA lightening restrictions to medication abortion access during the pandemic and the Biden administration beginning its rollback of Trump’s harmful Title X program rules. Dee Srivastava , Policy Analyst at Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Nina Serriane , Legislative Affairs Manager at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, celebrate the recent changes in access to medication abortion and the lifting of restrictions on the national Title X program with us. On April 12th, 2021, the Food and Drug Administration suspended a medically unnecessary barrier to medication abortion—requiring patients to access medication abortion pills in person at a hospital, doctor’s office, or clinic—for the remainder of the COVID-19 pandemic. This means that people will not need to expose themselves to COVID to get the basic care that they need in states that permit it. It also allows patients in some states to access abortion care in a way that is safe, effective, and ensures privacy. It is important to remember that restrictions to medication abortion care existed before the pandemic, and after the pandemic is over we need to fight to ensure these unnecessary barriers to abortion access are eliminated permanently. In 2019, the Trump-Pence administration instituted a “domestic gag rule” on the Title X family planning program, which prohibited grants from going to providers where clinicians divulged to their patients how to safely access abortion care. This prevented providers from being able to disclose a full range of information to their patients and severely limited the comprehensive care that patients were able to receive. On April 14th, 2021, the Department of Health and Human Services proposed the rescinding of this rule. This Trump rule resulted in the Title X network’s capacity being slashed in half, and the health needs of people around the U.S. have only increased during the pandemic. Since this is a proposed rule, there will now be a public comment process, which you can find more information about in the Take Action section. The comment deadline is May 17th, 2021. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast <
Bonus · Mon, April 12, 2021
BMHW21: Black Maternal Health, Abortion Access, and Reproductive Justice
April 11 – 17, 2021, marks the fourth annual Black Maternal Health Week . In this bonus episode, Dr. Jamila Perritt , board certified OB/GYN and President and CEO of Physicians for Reproductive Health and Dr. Mishka S. Peart , OB/GYN and fellow with Physicians for Reproductive Health, talk to us about the importance of highlighting and discussing the disparities in abortion, contraception, and maternal health access and outcomes for Black people in the United States. There are undeniable race- and ethnicity- based disparities in maternal health outcomes in the United States. For example, maternal deaths occur more frequently among Black people than any other race or ethnicity, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that Black people are three to four times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than any other racial or ethnic group. Lack of access to quality contraception and abortion care also disproportionately impact Black communities; in fact, a recent study found that barriers to abortion contributed to up to a 38 percent increase in maternal deaths, which has a disparate impact on Black people. Medical care, access to comprehensive reproductive health services, and maternal health outcomes are certainly impacted by social inequities and racism. “Weathering”, or the phenomenon of the biological impact of stress related to being Black in America, is an effect of the systemic racism faced by the Black community in the medical system and beyond. It is vital that the U.S. medical system recognize this cyclical structure and make long-term changes that address the inherent biases in the healthcare infrastructure. The reproductive justice framework has four tenets at its core: 1) every person has a human right to determine if they have a child, and to determine the circumstances under which they give birth; 2) every person has a human right to decide if they will not have a child and to have the resources to decide if and how to prevent and end a pregnancy; 3) every person has a human right to parent the children they already have in sustainable and safe communities free from violence; and 4) every person has a human right to bodily autonomy and sexual pleasure. It is far past time that the United States begins to view and provide comprehensive reproductive health care holistically and through the lens of a reproductive justice framework. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: <a href='https://bsky.app/profile/reprosfight
Tue, April 06, 2021
Trans Rights are Under Attack in Several States
LGBTQ+ people, overall, lack equal rights and access in the United States. In fact, in most of the U.S., LGBTQ+ people face discrimination in housing, credit, public accommodations, jury service, and other public arenas that don’t directly involve marriage or employment. It’s also no secret that Republicans around the country have been passing legislation for years that attacks the health and rights of transgender people . Charlotte Clymer , writer, LGBTQ+ advocate, and Director of Communications and Strategy at Catholics for Choice, talks to us about how state attacks on transgender rights are contributing to the lack of protections for LGBTQ+ people in the U.S. This year state-level anti-trans policies have fallen into three buckets: those that prevent transgender youth from receiving lifesaving, gender-affirming medical care, those that prevent transgender youth from competing in sports, and religious liberty exemptions. Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee are states that have formally passed these types of legislation so far this year. In direct opposition to these egregious attacks on LGBT health and rights, the Equality Act is a comprehensive bill that, at the national level, would ban discrimination against LGBTQ+ people in every aspect of the public square. Since the Biden administration has taken office, there have been a number of protections that have been passed to support LGBTQ+ people. Immediately, the Biden administration signed a flurry of executive orders that made it illegal to discriminate against LGBTQ+ people within the federal government, overturn the ban on trans people in the military, and appoint a number of LGBTQ+ people to government posts. To expand upon its progress, the Biden administration should release every LGBTQ+ (and specifically, trans and non-binary) undocumented immigrant from ICE and CPB custody, ensure that incarcerated trans people maintain their rights and wellbeing, and create an LGBTQ+-specific equality commission or council, and strengthening reporting in the State Department’s international Human Rights Reports on LGBTQ+ safety around the world. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 23, 2021
1 in 3 Women Experience Gender Based Violence
Gender-based violence, or GBV, is harm perpetrated against a person’s will on the basis of their gender or gender characteristics. It is such a widespread global issue that 1 in 3 women have reported experiencing some form of gender-based violence. Gayatri Patel , Director of Gender Advocacy at CARE USA, talks to us about this universal issue. GBV can include rape or sexual violence, domestic or intimate partner violence, human trafficking, child marriage, harassment, controlling behavior, and economic abuse, among other forms of violence. While gender-based violence is often committed against women and girls, it is important to remember that boys, men, and people of other gender identities experience gender-based violence, as well. GBV takes place in all countries, to people in all social and economic classes, and to people of all races, ethnicities, and religions. In practice, global gender-based violence looks like: · Somewhere in the world, 1 girl every 2 seconds is married before the age of 18 · An average of 137 women are killed by a family member each day · 1 in 10 women in the European Union saying they have experienced cyber harassment since the age of 15 Conflict, natural disaster, and humanitarian situations often lead to a lack of traditional social support, disintegration of familial structures, and increased rates of stress. Combined, this phenomenon can lead to rising rates of all forms of GBV in these situations. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a dramatic increase in GBV, particularly domestic violence, intimate partner violence, child marriage, and female genital cutting. Because people’s movements are restricted due to stay-at-home measures, jobs have been lost, and schools have closed, many are trapped in a home with an abuser, have become financially dependent on their abusers, or have become an easier target of abuse. Each survivor is different and therefore, each survivor needs different things. Examples of needs for gender-based violence survivors could include economic and job support, immediate crisis counseling, long-term psychosocial services, legal services, sexual and reproductive health services, and more. The Biden administration is already taking action to address GBV. The administration established the White House Gender Policy Council and they are developing a national action plan on GBV, and updating the U.S. strategy to responded to global GBV. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: <a href='https://www.facebook.com/rePROsFightBa
Tue, March 09, 2021
Reproductive Rights, LGBTQ+ Rights, and the Catholic Church
Catholics have abortions at the same rate as others in the U.S. 58% of Catholics believe abortion should be legal in all or most cases, while 68% of Catholics in the U.S. do not want to see Roe v. Wade overturned. Jamie Manson , President of Catholics for Choice, talks to us about all of the ways that Catholicism deeply impacts the human rights of many in the United States. “Theology of the body,” a theological idea developed by Pope John Paul II, teaches that God made men and women in a specific way with specific anatomy to signal what God’s purpose for humanity, nature, and gender roles are for us. This deeply entrenched theological idea is taught widely at Catholic schools and universities around the U.S. It is this fundamental idea that underlines why the church opposes abortion, contraception, same-sex relationships and marriage, and women serving as faith leaders. While it often largely seems as if the Catholic church is mostly focused on curtailing access to abortion, that isn’t the only sexual and reproductive health issue that is impacted by the political power of the church; the Catholic church has been a leading actor in opposing birth control access, LGB issues, trans issues, refusing basic healthcare in clinical settings, and more. It is often the Catholic church that is behind cases in the Supreme Court. Still, the teachings and beliefs of the Catholic church hierarchy do not necessarily inherently reflect that living reality of Catholic practitioners. There has been a large broadening of how religious liberty is interpreted—Our Lady of Guadalupe School v. Morrisey-Berru and Fulton v. Philadelphia are examples of court cases in which the Catholic church have expanded definitions of religious liberty in order to discriminate and refuse protections. These religious liberty extensions will be troubling not only for reproductive health and rights, but for a range of human rights issues. President Joe Biden is America’s very first pro-choice, practicing Catholic president. This is an opportunity for a person of faith to promote and protect reproductive health and rights. President Biden’s Catholic faith informs much of the administration’s policy, and Catholics for Choice calls on President Biden to state that abortion access is also a value grounded in Catholic social justice. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@r
Tue, February 23, 2021
You’d Be Surprised How Many Sexual and Reproductive Health Issues Are Included in Bridgerton
“Bridgerton” is a 2020 Netflix show that follows the fictional Bridgerton siblings as they seek love in Regency-era London. The first season features plots relating to maternal mortality, consent, sex education, and much, much more. Laura D. Lindberg , Principal Research Scientist for the Guttmacher Institute, talks to us about the sexual and reproductive health issues that Bridgerton explores, and the ways in which sex education today may be just as hard to access as it was in 1813 London. Issues of maternal mortality arise a few times in Bridgerton; The Duke’s mother dies after giving birth to him, while Eloise expresses anxiety to Daphne when remembering their mother’s close brush with death after giving birth to their youngest sibling. Girls and women are seen carrying the emotional weight of pregnancy and childbirth, as both were a necessary social role at the time and yet carried a very large health risk. Gender roles are also starkly explored, as gender constrained and shaped the paths that both men and women took in the show. Throughout the season, Eloise rejects her “coming out” as a debutante while proclaiming value in education and writing. Early marriage in Bridgerton underscores the ways in which women and girls could protect their virginity, while men and boys were encouraged to engage in sexual promiscuity. And, after the death of the family’s father, Anthony, the eldest son, takes over as head of the household and must make increasingly intense decisions for the Bridgerton family’s future-- which often puts him in conflict with his mother. Daphne has grown up protected in her class-defined bubble and it has kept her far from any kind of comprehensive sex education. When it becomes clear she is uninformed, she seeks knowledge about sex and marriage from her lady’s maid. Daphne becomes increasingly angry with her mother as she realizes her mother sent her out into the world without important information about sex and marriage. The Duke takes advantage of the fact that Daphne does not understand the way sex works, depending on the withdrawal method to not get her pregnant. Ultimately, Daphne discovers the Duke’s insistence that he cannot have children is a philosophical one instead of a physiological one, leading Daphne to sexually assault the Duke and engage in reproductive coercion. Bridgerton reminds us that self-managed abortion has been around for a very long time. Out of desperation, Marina unsuccessfully attempts to induce a self-managed abortion by mixing herbs into a tea. Thankfully, in the U.S. and around the world today, self-managed medication abortion is much safer and more effective. Still, it is a reminder that pregnant people want and deserve to have complete autonomy over decision-making about their bodies. Today, while some things differ from Regency-era London, access to sex education is still shockingly lacking for young people around the U.S. There has been no expansion
Tue, February 09, 2021
100th Episode Celebration: Jennie Answers Your Questions
This week we are doing things a little differently! To celebrate rePROs Fight Back’s 100th episode, host Jennie Wetter will be answering questions sent in by listeners. This week, sit back, relax, and get to know the rePROs Fight Back host just a bit better! You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 26, 2021
Medication Abortion Shouldn't Require an In-Person Visit (Especially During a Pandemic!)
Medication abortion provides safe, effective, and time-sensitive medical care to patients around the U.S. that require an abortion. Unfortunately, medication abortion faces multiple restrictions, with the Supreme Court recently ruling that patients must access the medication in-person. Especially in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, these restrictions are not only unnecessary, but blatantly dangerous. Dr. Jamila Perritt , a board-certified OBGYN and family planning specialist, and President and CEO of Physicians for Reproductive Health, talks to us about these restrictions and how they are impacting people’s access to basic abortion care, in and outside of the context of the pandemic. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Tue, January 19, 2021
The Biden Administration Can Fix Title X
Clinics that are funded by Title X provide critical family planning care to many around the U.S. This care includes pelvic exams, STD testing and treatment, cancer screenings, birth control prescription services, and more. The Trump administration’s 2019 administrative rule, sometimes referred to as the domestic gag rule, has completely gutted the Title X program Robin Summers, Vice President of Healthcare Strategy and Analysis and Senior Council at the National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association (NFPRHA), talks to us about how the Title X program has been impacted by the Trump administration’s harmful rule, and how the incoming Biden-Harris administration can repair it. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Fri, January 15, 2021
Prioritizing Reproductive and Racial Justice
Reproductive Justice is the human right to maintain personal bodily autonomy, have children, not have children, and parent the children we have in safe and sustainable communities. Monica Raye Simpson, Executive Director of SisterSong, Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective, sits down with us to talk about how the framework of reproductive justice is deeply interwoven into events that are currently happening in the United States. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 12, 2021
The U.S Needs to Make it Easier for Immigrants to Access Healthcare
Health care is a human right and yet immigrants in the US cannot receive appropriate health insurance coverage or healthcare because of their immigration status. Abbey Zhu, member of the Chicago chapter of the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF), Luisa Cuautle, activist with the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice (NLIRJ) and Candace Gibson, Associate Director of Government Relations at the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice sit down with us to talk about the HEAL for Immigrant Women and Families Act and how the legislation will ensure access to quality, affordable, and dependable healthcare coverage for all immigrants. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 29, 2020
2021: A New Year, A New Administration, A Blueprint for Reproductive Freedom
The the Blueprint for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice (the Blueprint) lays out a comprehensive, proactive domestic and foreign policy agenda to achieve reproductive health, rights, and justice, envisioning a future that sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice advocates would like to live in. Michelle Batchelor, Vice President of Government Affairs at In Our Own Voice-- National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda and Caitlin Horrigan, Director of Global Advocacy at Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Planned Parenthood Action Fund, sit down with us to discuss. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 15, 2020
Will the U.S. Adopt a Feminist Foreign Policy?
The International Center for Research on Women defines feminist foreign policy as “the policy of a state that defines its interactions with other states and movements in a manner that prioritizes gender equality and enshrines the human rights of women and other marginalized groups, allocates significant resources to achieve that vision and seeks, through its implementation, to disrupt racist, patriarchal and male-dominated power structures across all levers of influence, such as aid, trade, defense, diplomacy, and that this is informed by the voices of feminist groups, activists, and movements at home and abroad.” Lyric Thompson, Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy at the International Center for Research on Women, and leader of the Coalition for a Feminist Foreign Policy in the United States, sits down to talk to us about the significance of feminist foreign policy, and how it can be achieved. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 01, 2020
It’s Time to Talk About Infertility
Infertility is estimated to impact 10 to 15 percent of couples in the United States, making it the most common diseases of people between the ages of 20 and 45. Frankie Robertson, with the National Birth Equity Collaborative and the Amandla Group, takes time to talk to us about the intricacies of infertility and why we need to look at it as a reproductive justice issue. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 17, 2020
SCOTUS with Amy Coney Barrett and the ACA and LGBTQ Rights, Oh My!
Newly-appointed Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett has a proven track record of being a very conservative judge on issues like sexual violence, the Affordable Care Act, LGBTQ+ rights, and reproductive health and rights. In her confirmation hearing, Justice Barrett refused to answer many questions surrounding abortion, in vitro fertilization, and birth control. Caroline Reilly , legal fellow with Rewire News Group, talks to us about Justice Amy Coney Barrett’s past experience and personal views could certainly influence the future of health and rights in the United States. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 03, 2020
Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Hero Origin Stories: Round 3
This week we are doing things a little differently! Long time listeners have probably heard our SRHR Hero Origin Stories podcast AND our SRHR Hero Origin Stories podcast: Round 2 , where we talked to a number of amazing heroes in the field of reproductive health, rights, and justice and heard about how they began working in this space. We have reprised our most popular podcast episodes and talked to more leaders about their work, their passions, and their journeys into reproductive health for a third time! Guests include: Lienna Feleke-Eshete, Senior Associate of Public Policy and Movement Building at the Center for Health and Gender Equity (CHANGE) Zara Ahmed, Associate Director of Federal Issues at Guttmacher Institute Erin Matson, Co-Founder and Co-Director of Reproaction Monica Edwards, Federal Policy Manager at Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity (URGE) Jennie Wetter with the Population Institute and rePROs Fight Back You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, October 20, 2020
Wait…Trump is Expanding the Global Gag Rule Again?
The Global Gag Rule has interfered with HIV prevention and contraceptive access and has increased unintended pregnancy and abortion rates. The Trump administration has engaged in unprecedented expansion of this rule, endangering the health and lives of millions around the world and is looking to further expand who the gag rule applies to. Beirne Roose-Snyder, Director of Public Policy at the Center for Health and Gender Equity (CHANGE) talks to us about the continuation of these harmful expansions even though 70 percent of Americans oppose the Global Gag Rule. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, October 06, 2020
Sorry State Dept, You Can't Choose Human Rights A La Carte
The Commission on Unalienable Rights was convened by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. The commission has championed religious freedom and property as human rights, but not reproductive health, LGBTQ+ wellbeing, immigrant rights, and more. Amanda Klasing, Interim Co-Director at the Women’s Rights Division at the Human Rights Watch and Tarah Demant, Director of Gender, Sexuality, and Identity Program at Amnesty International USA sit down to talk to us about this commission’s most recent report and how it is harmful for global human rights. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Mon, September 28, 2020
Remembering the Notorious RBG and Looking Ahead to What’s At Stake
On September 18, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away from complications related to pancreatic cancer. Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a fierce defender of justice for all. Leila Abolfazli, Director of Federal Reproductive Rights at the National Women’s Law Center sits down to talk to us about Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s legacy and what’s at stake when it comes to our sexual and reproductive health and rights. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, September 22, 2020
How the Federal Judiciary is Becoming More Anti-Abortion Each Day
A quick note that this episode was recorded before the heartbreaking death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. In legislative sessions across the U.S. in the year of 2019, more than 300 anti-abortion bills were introduced and 58 restrictions were enacted. Some of these sexual and reproductive health-related laws will end up in front of the courts, meaning an individual’s right to abortion access in some states ends up in the hands of whatever judges preside in the court. Anisha Singh, Director of Judiciary and Democracy Affairs with Planned Parenthood Action Fund (PPACT), sits down to talk with us about how our courts play a critical role in our sexual and reproductive health and rights. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, September 08, 2020
Let's Talk About How Women Must Be Included in COVID19 Research
The COVID-19 pandemic is both exacerbating and laying bare the ways in which marginalized communities continue to be further marginalized when it comes to healthcare access. Specifically, women, people of color, and transgender folks are often underrepresented or completely excluded from clinical trial and vaccine development. Jamille Fields Allsbrook, Director of Women’s Health and Rights at the Center for American Progress sits down with us to discuss the ways in which disparities in representation lead to disparities in the development of clinical trials and vaccines. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, August 25, 2020
Sex Education and HPV: How Alabama is Failing Its Young People
Currently in Alabama, the state does not have a mandate on teaching sexual education. Most of the information taught in schools is abstinence-only-based, medically inaccurate, and stigmatizing to LGBTQ+ students. There are also much higher rates of cervical cancer (a highly treatable and preventable disease) in Alabama, with Black women twice as likely to die of the disease as white women. Annerieke Smaak Daniel, a fellow in the Women’s Rights Division of Human Rights Watch, joins us to talk with us about the status of comprehensive sex education is a state that is failing its young people. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, August 11, 2020
Reproductive Rights and Transgender Rights: We're In This Together
Reproductive health and rights and the health and rights of transgender individuals are issues that are both rooted in bodily autonomy and are both under attack. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, conservative lawmakers have been going out of their way to continue attacks on transgender and reproductive health and rights. Jessica Mason Pieklo, Senior Vice President and Executive Editor at Rewire.News and Katelyn Burns, political writer at Vox.com, talk about how these intersectional attacks and are ultimately rooted in anti-science and bad-faith arguments. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Thu, July 30, 2020
The Helms Amendment Hurts And It Needs To Go
The Helms amendment is an amendment to the U.S. Foreign Assistance Act which states that U.S. government foreign assistance funds cannot be used for “the performance of abortion as a method of family planning.” The Helms amendment undermines U.S. efforts to improve maternal health and mortality by denying access to abortion services. Anu Kumar, President and CEO of IPAS, talks to us about how dangerous this 47-year-old amendment really is and why it has to go. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 28, 2020
A Personal Conversation About Covid
This week’s podcast episode is a different format. Preston Mitchum, Director of Policy with Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity (URGE), sits down to share his experience of having recently been diagnosed with and recovering from COVID-19. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 14, 2020
Abortion Access is a Health Equity Issue
Abortion access does not look the same for everyone in the United States. That’s because whether or not someone can access an abortion is often tied to factors like income, transportation, insurance coverage, ability to find childcare, and more. COVID-19 has highlighted the inequities in the U.S. system. Dr. Bhavik Kumar, Medical Director for Primary and Trans Care at Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast and National Medical Spokesperson for Planned Parenthood Federation of America sits down to talk with us about those inequities and how they span across the full spectrum of healthcare. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Fri, July 10, 2020
The Supreme Court Apparently Thinks Your Birth Control is Your Boss's Business
On Wednesday, June 8th, 2020, the Supreme Court ruled that institutions and employers are exempt from the Affordable Care Act’s birth control mandate, which requires employers to provide contraception coverage with no co-pay through insurance plans, as long as they have a religious or moral opposition. Mara Gandal-Powers, Director of Birth Control Access and Senior Counsel at the National Women’s Law Center, sits down to talk with us about the most recent birth control-related Supreme Court ruling and how this tramples the health and rights of many across the United States. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Fri, July 03, 2020
Abortion Went to the Supreme Court ... and We WON!
This week, in a victory for abortion access, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in June Medical Services v. Russo that Louisiana could not require abortion providers to have admitting privileges at a local hospital. The ruling upholds an earlier Supreme Court decision, Whole Women’s Health v. Hellerstedt, which struck down a similar Texas law because it placed on undue burden upon those seeking abortion care. In this episode we talk with TJ Tu, co-lead counsel on June Medical with the Center for Reproductive Rights, all about what this decision means for abortion access. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Wed, July 01, 2020
Wait ... The "Anti-Prostitution Loyalty Oath" Was at the Supreme Court?
The Anti-Prostitution Loyalty Oath (APLO) is a provision that prevents foreign NGOs and international affiliates of U.S. organizations from using the President’s Emergency Fund for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) funds in a way that “promotes prostitution or sex trafficking” and they must have an explicit policy opposing prostitution and sex trafficking. Keifer Buckingham, Senior Policy Advisor with the Open Society Foundations and Open Society Policy Center sits down to talk with us about how the recent Supreme Court ruling that protects APLO is ultimately stigmatizing, discriminatory, and harmful to the goal of fighting HIV/AIDS. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, June 30, 2020
Sex Education Must be LGBTQ+ Inclusive or It Isn't Sex Education
Sex Education shouldn’t solely be about anatomy, condom use, and STIs. It should also include education on consent, healthy relationships, and different sexual orientations and gender identities. Jennifer Driver, Vice President of Policy and Strategic Partnerships at SIECUS: Sex Ed For Social Change, sits down to talk with us about why positive LGBTQ+ representation and inclusive, medically-accurate information makes a huge difference in sex education courses. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Thu, June 18, 2020
LGBTQ Victory at the Supreme Court, but Trouble at HHS
The Supreme Court this week ruled on a case in which they decided it was illegal to discriminate against LGBT people in employment situations under Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The decision was ruled 6-3, and the majority opinion was penned by Justice Neil Gorsuch and Justice John Roberts also joined the majority side. Katelyn Burns, political reporter covering general politics and LGBTQ issues at Vox, talks to us (and celebrates with us!) in this bonus podcast episode. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, June 16, 2020
The Many Ways the US is Attacking Reproductive Rights at the United Nations
The United Nations makes important decisions around a wide variety of issues including the sexual and reproductive health and rights of people around the world. Since the beginning of the Trump administration, the U.S. has been actively fighting against providing global sexual and reproductive health and rights. Shannon Kowalski, Director of Advocacy and Policy at the International Women’s Health Coalition (IWHC), sits down to talk with us about how the U.S. has attempted to weaken reproductive health and rights around the world through their role at the UN. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Wed, June 03, 2020
Sexual Assault on Campus: Will Title IX Rule Changes Make Schools Less Safe?
Title IX is an anti-discrimination law that protects students and employees in education environments. The rule is critical-- it ensures that schools respond appropriately to sexual harassment and assault against employees and students in educational institutions around the U.S. Unfortunately, the Trump administration has introduced a new rule that would essentially dismantle Title IX and have schools take steps to discourage students from reporting sexual harassment and assault on campus. Shiwali Patel with the National Women’s Law Center talks to us about this extremely harmful rule change and what it could mean for students across the country. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 19, 2020
Covid-19 Could be Devastating to Reproductive Health in Low and Middle Income Countries
While we’ve heard a lot about how COVID-19 is impacting our access to sexual and reproductive health here in the United States, the devastation to SRHR will be felt the world over. In fact, the progress that has been made in supplying women and girls in low- and middle-income countries with reproductive health services could be significantly rolled back as the pandemic continues. Zara Ahmed with the Guttmacher Institute sits down with us to talk about this world-wide change in access. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 05, 2020
Wait...It's 2020 and We're Still Fighting Over Birth Control?
On May 6th, the Supreme Court will hear a case regarding Trump administration rules that would allow virtually any employer or university with objections to contraception to exclude birth control from any employer-based or student health plans. Mara Gandal-Powers with the National Women’s Law Center sits down with us to talk about this landmark case and how we got here. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 21, 2020
It's Unacceptable That States are Using a Pandemic to Attack Abortion
In case you haven’t heard, states around the U.S. are taking advantage of the global pandemic in an effort to ban and severely limit access to abortion care. Governors and lawmakers in these states argue that abortion is a “non-essential” health service, and that hospital and clinic resources that are used to perform both procedural and medication abortion should be redirected toward COVID-19 relief. Jessica Mason Pieklo and Imani Gandy with Rewire.News and the Boom! Lawyered podcast helps us break down this bogus argument. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 07, 2020
Even a Pandemic Can't Stop Clinic Harassment
In case you missed it, states around the country are attempting to attack access to abortion by taking advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic and manipulating the definition of “essential health services.” While abortion providers are under pressure due to maintaining the safety of staff and patients, handling state-by-state legislative attacks, and continuing to provide essential and time-sensitive health care, they face an additional, unnecessary stressor; anti-abortion protestors ignoring public health protocol and crowding the entrance of clinics. While abortion clinics are simply trying to provide reproductive health care during a turbulent time, anti-abortion protestors are blatantly disregarding the safety and health of others. We talk to Calla Hales, executive director of A Preferred Women’s Health Center, about clinic harassment before and during this unprecedented pandemic. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 24, 2020
How Trump Administration Policies Are Impacting SRHR in Malawi
18% of maternal deaths in Malawi are due to complications from unsafe abortion. Malawi also consistently fights against child marriage, gender-based violence, and maternal mortality. Emma Kaliya , director of the Malawi Human Rights Resource Center and Chair of the Coalition for Prevention of Unsafe Abortion in Malawi and Brian Ligomeka , head of the Center for Solutions Journalism, talk to us about the sexual and reproductive health and rights landscape in Malawi. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 10, 2020
Under Attack or Fighting Back? Repro Legislation in States Across the U.S.
Attacks on abortion access don’t just occur at the federal level— in fact, by the end of 2019, 25 abortion restrictions had been passed on state legislatures around the country. While some states are working overtime to limit reproductive health and rights, some are working just as hard to protect them. To address this divide on reproductive health and rights around the country, we sit down to talk with Sophia Kerby with the State Innovation Exchange. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Wed, March 04, 2020
Storytellers Tell Us Why Today’s SCOTUS Case Matters
The Supreme Court case June Medical Services vs. Russo is being argued today, March 4th, 2020. Dr. Nisha Verma, an OB-GYN and abortion provider, and Stephanie Goodell, a patient treated by Dr. Verma, share their story. Another storyteller, Hannah, tells us what it’s like to access abortion care in the state of Louisiana. As the Supreme Court rules on the future of abortion access in the United States, we hope that Dr. Verma, Stephanie Goodell, and Hannah’s stories will highlight the importance of abortion access without frivolous limitations on this week’s bonus episode. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 25, 2020
The SCOTUS Case That Could Change How We Access Abortion
On March 4th, 2020, the Supreme Court of the United States will hear a case June Medical Services LLC vs. Russo . This case will examine a Louisiana “admitting privileges” law that would leave only one abortion provider to operate in the entire state. It could also set a dangerous precedent for the future of abortion access across the United States. Julie Rikelman , one of the lead counsels with the Center for Reproductive Rights who will be arguing the case in front of the Supreme Court, talks to us about the impact of this all-important Supreme Court case. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 11, 2020
What is Medicaid And How Does It Relate to Reproductive Health?
Medicaid is both a federal and state health coverage program that serves certain low-income people. It is not the same program as Medicare, which is a health coverage program for older Americans over 65 and some with certain disabilities. Jamille Fields Allsbrook , Director of Women’s Health and Rights at the Center for American Progress, sits down with us to talk all things Medicaid and how protecting this program can benefit the reproductive health and rights of folks around the U.S. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 28, 2020
The Abortion and Maternal Health Landscape is Different for Black Women. That Needs to Change.
The United States is an extremely unstable landscape when it comes to being pregnant and giving birth. Black women, in accessing abortion care, tend to face more geographic, transportation, infrastructure, and economic barriers. And Black women are three to four times more likely to die from causes related to childbirth and pregnancy. Jessica Pinckney with In Our Own Voice talks to us about the abortion access and maternal health crisis that Black women face on a daily basis in the United States. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 14, 2020
Oh no! You're at a Crisis Pregnancy Center! Here's what you should know...
If you’ve been driving down the highway or taking public transportation and seen a “Pregnant? Need help?” sign, you’ve likely seen an advertisement for a crisis pregnancy center (CPC). Crisis pregnancy centers are anti-abortion, fake clinics. The purpose is to mislead, shame, and dissuade people seeking abortion care from getting the care that they want and need. We sit down with Erin Matson , co-founder and co-director of Reproaction to talk about how dangerous these centers can be. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 31, 2019
State of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights: 2019 Year in Review
This year, states around the country passed 6-week abortion bans, critical cases on reproductive health and rights and LGBTQ rights reached the Supreme Court, targeted regulation of abortion provider (TRAP) laws have passed through statehouses around the country, and violence and harassment outside clinics have risen. Lauren Rankin , freelance writer and clinic escort, sits down to talk with us about the ups and downs of reproductive health in 2019. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 17, 2019
The U.S.' Grades on Global Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Policy Are In...
Every day in the U.S., there seems to be a new attack on reproductive health and rights. Still, it is important to remember that the U.S.’ policies also impact sexual and reproductive health and rights for populations abroad. Bergen Cooper with Center for Health and Gender Equity (CHANGE) sits down with us to talk about their organization’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Index, which grades the U.S. on its international reproductive health policies. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 03, 2019
Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Hero Origin Stories: Round 2
This week we are doing something a little different. We talked to a number of amazing sexual and reproductive health and rights heroes to hear their story of how they got into working in the reproductive justice or sexual and reproductive health and rights space. We talked with: Jennie Wetter, rePROs Fight Back and Population Institute Katherine Olivera, International Women's Health Coalition Sarah Craven, UNFPA Jessica Mason Pieklo, Rewire.News Nina Besser Doorley, International Women's Health Coalition You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 19, 2019
Sex Education as a Vehicle for Social Change
Across the United States, the overall state of sex education is inconsistent, inaccurate, and non-inclusive. Less than 40% of high schools and only 14% of middle schools meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines for sex education. Chris Harley , President and CEO at SIECUS: Sex Ed for Social Change talks to us about why we need sex education that is medically-accurate, inclusive of all genders and sexual orientations, and stresses topics like consent, healthy relationships, and more. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 05, 2019
Are You Living in a Contraceptive Desert?
The term ‘contraceptive desert’ refers to an area that lacks reasonable access to a clinic that does not have a full range of birth control methods. There are 19.5 million women (but remember, it isn’t just women who require access to contraception), who have low-incomes and lack reasonable access to a clinic in their county that offers a full range of birth control methods. Within those 19.5 million women live 1.6 million women that live in a county that does not have a single clinic that offers a range of contraceptive methods. Rachel Fey with Power to Decide talks to us about contraceptive deserts in the U.S. and why it is extremely important to expand access to birth control. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, October 22, 2019
The Supreme Court Takes on LGBTQ Rights and Abortion Rights
The Supreme Court is officially back in session, which means that cases on LGBTQ+ rights and reproductive rights will come before the bench. Katelyn Burns, a freelance journalist covering LGBTQ and reproductive health and rights issues and the first openly transgender reporter on Capitol Hill joins us to talk about the LGBTQ+ cases that the Supreme Court has already heard this term, and the reproductive rights case that will be presented before them in the spring. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, October 08, 2019
Fighting for Reproductive Rights on Catholic College Campuses
Students are headed back to school on university campuses across the country, and that means they are seeking healthcare services, including reproductive healthcare. Unfortunately, many students will find it difficult to access the reproductive healthcare that they need. Lauren Morrissey and Christina Frasik, co-founders of the Student Coalition for Reproductive Justice (SCRJ), sit down to talk with us about expanding student’s access to critical sexual and reproductive healthcare on campuses across the United States! You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, September 24, 2019
Stop the Department of Health and Human Service's Attacks on LGBTQ Rights
Under the Trump administration, there have been countless assaults on the health and rights of the LGBTQ community. From religious refusals to blatant discrimination, Julie Gonen with the National Center for Lesbian Rights talks to us about how the Trump administration is attacking LGBTQ rights through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, September 10, 2019
The Trump Pence Administration has Forced Planned Parenthood Out of Title X
The Trump-Pence administration has been attacking reproductive health and rights since taking office, but the most recent assault has been on the nation’s Title X program. In fact, Planned Parenthood (which provides care to about 40 percent of the country’s 4 million Title X patients) has been forced to withdraw from the program. Jack Rayburn with the Planned Parenthood Federation of America talks to us about Planned Parenthood, Title X, and what we can do to fight back against these attacks on funding for reproductive health care. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, August 27, 2019
How Your Catholic Hospital is Restricting Your Care
It’s important to know if your hospital has a religious affiliation because it can possibly impact the care you receive. Catholic hospitals make up a huge swath of the U.S. healthcare system; in fact, 1 in 6 acute-care hospital beds are located in a Catholic health facility. Amy Littlefield , an investigative reporter with Rewire.News, sits down with us to talk about the ways Catholic hospitals work to restrict reproductive healthcare. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Tue, August 20, 2019
Fighting Gender-Based Violence and Challenging Gender Norms in Mozambique
You can’t talk about providing reproductive and sexual health care without talking about gender inequality, and you can’t talk about gender inequality without talking about sexual and reproductive health. In Mozambique, 20,000 + women and girls have received gender-based violence services from facilities supported by Pathfinder International, and the organization is on the ground providing access to reproductive health care and building a strong local response to gender-based violence. Estrella Alcalde with Pathfinder International Mozambique talks to us about the ways gender norms impact access to SRH care, and vice versa. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, August 13, 2019
All Human Rights are Equal, Someone Tell the State Department
The State Department has recently set up a “Commission on Inalienable Rights” that worries reproductive rights advocates, LGBTQ+ advocates, and human rights advocates. Amanda Klasing , acting Co-Director of the Women’s Rights Division with the Human Rights Watch, and Tarah Demant , Director of the Gender, Sexuality, and Identity program with Amnesty International USA sit down to talk with us about why we should be worried about the State Department’s new commission. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Tue, August 06, 2019
We Can't Forget about the Reproductive Health Needs of Adolescent Girls in Humanitarian Settings
Humanitarian settings refer to a place where there has been a man-made or natural disaster. When these disasters strike, populations are often forced to leave their communities or country, and are forced to resettle. While people indeed need food, shelter, and water in humanitarian settings, there are also special reproductive health needs that women and adolescent girls face. Julianne Deitch with the Women’s Refugee Commission (WRC) sits down with us to talk about these specific reproductive health needs for adolescent girls in humanitarian settings. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 30, 2019
Overcoming Barriers: Teens Accessing Reproductive Health Care in Zambia
Being a teenager can be scary and confusing, especially when it comes to your sexual and reproductive health. Teenagers in Zambia feel like they can’t approach their families or health clinics for information and services, especially when it comes to pregnancy and HIV prevention. Inonge Wina-Chinyama , an advocate with Marie Stopes International (MSI) Zambia, talks to us about how MSI is integrating HIV, contraception/ pregnancy prevention, and other general services in order to reach teenagers seeking sexual and reproductive health services in Zambia. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Tue, July 23, 2019
Global Gag Rule Two Years In: What Are We Seeing?
The global gag rule, also known as the ‘Mexico City Policy,’ is a U.S. foreign policy that prohibits non-U.S., non-governmental organizations from using their own private funds to provide comprehensive abortion care, counseling for abortion, referral for abortion, or organizing/lobbying/conducting public campaigns in support of abortion on the condition of receiving global health funding. The rule has appeared under previous Republican administrations, but under the current administration it has been vastly expanded. Two years in to the expanded global gag rule, there are a plethora of negative effects. Vanessa Rios from the International Women’s Health Coalition (IWHC) and Jade Maina from TICAH talk to us about IWHC’s new report and why the global gag rule must go. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 16, 2019
Trans Rights Are Human Rights! #ProtectTransHealth
Since the day President Trump took office, there have been countless attacks on the health, rights, and well-being of transgender people. Katelyn Burns , a freelance journalist covering LGBTQ and reproductive health issues and the first openly transgender reporter on Capitol Hill joins us to talk about all the ways in which the current administration has undermined the health and rights of transgender individuals. Comment on the attacks on transgender health and rights https://protecttranshealth.org You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Bonus · Tue, July 09, 2019
Contraceptive Choice: Having Some Options is Good, but Having More Options is Better
It’s no secret that there are a wealth of contraceptive methods that exist today, including methods like the birth control pill, the hormonal or non-hormonal IUD, the implant, the patch, and many more! Still, there are people around the world whose contraception needs are simply not being met. Julia Bunting with the Population Council sits down with us to discuss the need to continue the development of innovative contraceptive methods, and how her organization is leading the charge. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 02, 2019
Abortion Rights are Under Attack: Support Abortion Funds
Abortion funds are grassroots organizations that are locally rooted and predominately volunteer-powered. They aid in removing financial and logistical barriers that people face when trying to access abortion care, while simultaneously advocating against the political and cultural barriers that make their work necessary. Abortion funds pay for abortions, pay for and organize transportation to appointments, arrange childcare and housing, and some even provide emotional support through doula access. Yamani Hernandez, Executive Director of the National Network of Abortion Funds (NNAF), talks to us about the importance of abortion funds during a time where abortion access across the U.S. is facing a blatant attack. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, June 18, 2019
Let’s Talk Faith and Reproductive Health and Rights (Yes, It Can Be Done!)
Often when we have conversations that feature both reproductive health and rights and faith, it seems the two subjects are diametrically opposed. But thanks to the large amount of diversity in the faith community, many individuals, communities, and organizations are supportive of bridging the gap between faith and reproductive health and rights! Reverend Katey Zeh , Executive Director for the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, host of the Kindreds Podcast, and author of the book Women Rise Up: Sacred Stories of Resistance for Today’s Revolution , sits down with us to discuss why it’s important for people of faith to show public support for reproductive health and rights. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, June 04, 2019
Advocating for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Across Africa
In Malawi, 2 in 5 sexually active unmarried women have an unmet need for contraception. In Zimbabwe, fewer than half of adolescents have comprehensive knowledge about HIV/AIDS. And each year, one million Tanzanian women have an unintended pregnancy. Thandie Msukuma from Malawi, Dr. Lilian Benjamin Mwakyosi from Tanzania, and Hilda Zenda from Zimbabwe, advocates from the Center for Health and Gender Equity (CHANGE), sit down with us to talk about what we can do to expand access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care for young people in these African countries. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Wed, May 22, 2019
Emergency Podcast: What's Going On With All These Abortion Bans?
Over the past couple of weeks, state legislatures around the U.S. have been passing six week bans, otherwise known as “heartbeat bans”. These extreme and unconstitutional abortion laws seek to ban the legal procedure once a fetal heart tone in an embryo is detected, which can be as early as six weeks in pregnancy. Jessica Pieklo , Vice President of Law and Courts at Rewire.news and co-host of the Boom! Lawyered podcast, and Imani Gandy , Senior Legal Analyst with Rewire.news, co-host of the Boom! Lawyered podcast, and founder of Angry Black Lady Chronicles, talk to us about this emergency situation and why these “heartbeat bans” are so severe and dangerous. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 21, 2019
Reproductive Justice and Intersectionality
The language and the words we use to describe essential sexual and reproductive health services and issues is extremely important. For women of color, the ability to realize and control their reproductive health and autonomy is often impacted by other factors like race, poverty, sexism, and more. Jessica Pinckney , Vice President of Government Affairs at In Our Own Voice: the National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda talks to us about reproductive justice as an all-encompassing human rights framework that seeks to ensure choice for all. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 07, 2019
Reproductive Health and Rights Challenges in Nigeria
The law in Nigeria only allows abortion in the case of a woman’s life being in danger. Studies in Nigeria have shown that this restrictive law actually increases rates of abortion rather than lowering them. Hauwa Shekarau , the country director with Ipas Nigeria, talks to us about the current and major task of working to reduce maternal deaths due to unsafe abortions, reduce complications from unsafe abortions, and enable women to have access to quality reproductive healthcare in Nigeria. Find us on social media: Twitter: https://twitter.com/rePROsFightBack Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rePROsFightBack Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reprosfb You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 23, 2019
Voting Rights as a Reproductive Justice Issue
Everybody who is of voting age has the right to register to vote, vote in an election, and have their votes accurately tallied. It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about it, but voting rights are an important part of reproductive health, rights, and justice. Marcela Howell , President and CEO of In Our Own Voice: the National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, sits down with us to discuss why exercising your right to vote is critical in achieving reproductive justice for all. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 09, 2019
Decriminalization as a Public Health Issue
Criminalization drives stigma, harms public health, and violates human rights. The imposition of criminal penalties exist across the U.S. and around the world, and it creates barriers to adequate and comprehensive health care for many populations . Beirne Roose-Snyder from the Center for Health and Gender Equity (CHANGE) and Preston Mitchum from Advocates for Youth sit down with us to discuss how criminalization negatively impacts access to multiple types of care for the most vulnerable in our society. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 26, 2019
The Future of Roe: Upcoming Cases Challenging Abortion Rights
We have previously talked about how the Trump administration is working to reshape the federal judiciary by implementing anti-choice and anti-science judges throughout the judiciary system in the U.S. Today, Brigitte Amiri with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) talks to us about important abortion-related cases that are currently working their way through the court system, and how these cases may have the ability to impact abortion access around the country. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 12, 2019
Someone Tell the State Department that Reproductive Rights are Human Rights
Last year, the Trump-Pence administration removed information on reproductive health and rights from the State Department’s annual Human Rights Reports, effectively communicating that reproductive rights are not human rights. Stephanie Schmid with the Center for Reproductive Rights talks to us about the removal of reproductive health and rights information from the annual Human Rights Reports and what that means for SRHR around the world. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 26, 2019
Legalize it! Ban it! Abortion Legislation Across the US
It’s no secret that abortion access and reproductive healthcare have been under attack in the U.S. recently. Some states, like New York, are currently counteracting these attacks on healthcare, while some states are leaning in and using anti-abortion legislation to their advantage. Elizabeth Nash and Megan Donovan from the Guttmacher Institute sit down with us to discuss what abortion access currently looks like in the United States, and how some states are standing up and fighting back. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 12, 2019
Here are the facts of New York’s Reproductive Health Act
Sexual and reproductive health and rights discussions, especially in today’s world, can often be depressing, bleak, or just a bit of a downer. But on January 22nd, the 46th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, New York recently passed proactive legislation called the Reproductive Health Act (RHA), which modernizes a state law that previously limited when people could access legal abortion care. Laura McQuade, President and Chief Executive Officer of Planned Parenthood of New York City (PPNYC), sits down with us to talk about the new and exciting Reproductive Health Act. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 29, 2019
What is Self-Managed Abortion?
Any conversation we have about reproductive health, reproductive freedom, bodily autonomy, or abortion should include detailed discussions of all of the available options on how abortion care can be accessed-- and that includes self-managed abortion. Self-managed abortion is not a new concept, but it has been historically accessed in unsafe and secretive ways. With the current administration’s constant attacks on reproductive health and rights, as well as the shifting of the Supreme Court with the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh, abortion rights are being undermined and many fear the return of unsafe, self-managed abortion methods. Megan Donovan with the Guttmacher Institute talks to us about the evolving ways in which self-managed abortion is becoming a more easily accessible, safe, and effective option. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 15, 2019
Youth and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights: Focus on Uganda
It is critical that young people around the world are engaged and informed on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Uganda has one of the youngest populations in the world, with over 75 percent of the population under the age of 35. Maureen Andinda with Reach a Hand Uganda chats with us about the importance of young people’s knowledge of sexual and reproductive health and young people’s role in combating SRHR challenges. Financial, social, and cultural issues are often deeply rooted in sexual and reproductive health and rights. Young people must have the knowledge and information on SRHR that would allow them to make informed decisions regarding family planning, because deciding if, when, how, and with whom one might have a family with is a basic human right. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 01, 2019
State of Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights: 2018 Year in Review
Over the past year, sexual and reproductive health and rights have endured unending attacks from the administration, Congress, and state legislatures. This year, women and girls around the country have watched as access to vital reproductive health services, and funding have hung in the balance. Jacqueline Ayers with Planned Parenthood reviews 2018 with us, and talks through the ups and downs of SRHR this past year. The good news is that, so far, we haven’t lost a lot of the progress that we have made. The Affordable Care Act is still in place, the birth control benefit still exists, Planned Parenthood is still funded and Medicaid hasn’t been dismantled. Still, there will be many more attacks on sexual and reproductive health and rights, and it is important to be prepared! You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 18, 2018
How Trump is Reshaping the Federal Judiciary
The Trump administration is reshaping our judicial landscape. During his time in office, Trump has sent 157 judicial nominees to the Senate, which is bad news for reproductive and sexual health and rights. To help explain the sometimes daunting task of understanding the federal judiciary system under Trump, we're excited to have Kate Ryan from NARAL Pro-Choice America sit down with us! You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 04, 2018
#HandsOffIX: Proposed Changes to Title IX Fail Sexual Assault Survivors
Betsy DeVos, the United States Secretary of Education, has proposed changes to Title IX, a federal civil rights law which is meant to protect students from sex discrimination within education programs. These changes would severely undermine the rights of sexual assault survivors. Shiwali Patel with National Women’s Law Center helps us understand the dangers these changes to Title IX may bring. The changes being proposed to Title IX would make schools more dangerous for students, tilting the scales in favor of named harassers if the school would decide to investigate. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 20, 2018
It Shouldn't Be This Hard For Immigrants to Access Health Care
For clarity, these show notes and this podcast episode will be inclusive of undocumented immigrants and immigrants with legal status. In the United States today, there are more than 8 million citizens who live with at least one family member who may be undocumented. Yesenia Chavez with the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health (NLIRH) and Jaclyn Dean with the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF) talk to us about the fight for access to healthcare for immigrants. Children make up the majority of the millions of citizens who live with at least one family member. In fact, 6 million of these citizens are children. This means that many types of immigration enforcement actions come with severe emotional, mental, developmental, physical and financial repercussions for both the children and the undocumented individuals. Immigrants are not able to legally access public benefit programs until they have proven their permanent resident status, and only after five years of having that status. These programs can help provide housing, food, and health security to these communities. It is important to note that this same five-year bar also prevents access to the Affordable Care Act insurance marketplace. This means that opportunities for immigrant individuals and families are already limited, and immigrants often rely on a patchwork of insurance sources to cover healthcare. If their employer does not cover insurance or if they do not qualify for Medicaid, then immigrants often have to turn to paying for emergency care out of pocket, or seeking help through a community health center. 46% of immigrant, non-citizen women of reproductive age in the U.S. are privately insured, 19% rely on Medicaid for their insurance, and 34% are completely uninsured. The uninsured rate for immigrant women of reproductive age who are living in poverty is 48%. Nearly half of all immigrants in the U.S. are women and children. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, November 06, 2018
Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Hero Origin Stories
This week we are doing something a little different. We talked to a number of amazing SRHR heroes to hear their story of how they got into working in the reproductive justice or sexual and reproductive health and rights space. We talked with: Bergen Cooper, Center for Health and Gender Equity (CHANGE) Jennie Wetter, rePROs Fight Back and Population Institute Jonathan Rucks, PAI Yesenia Chavez, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health Mimi Spalding, Planned Parenthood Federation of America Jaclyn Dean, National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum Rebecca Dennis, PAI Jamila Taylor, Center for American Progress Jenny Vanyur, Planned Parenthood Federation of America Preston Mitchum, Advocates for Youth Kirsten Sherk, ICRW (International Center for Research on Women) Rachel Fey, Power to Decide You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, October 23, 2018
Vindication of Pleasure in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights
SRHR isn’t just about domestic and international policies on gender-based violence, unintended pregnancy and STI’s. While that’s very important, pleasure is also a critical part of sexual and reproductive health and rights! Bergen Cooper from the Center for Health and Gender Equity sits down to talk to us about why pleasure matters when discussing reproductive health. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, October 09, 2018
#BeBoldEndHyde
September 30, 2018, marked the 42nd anniversary of the Hyde Amendment. It’s no secret that abortion care can be a costly expense for women around the country. As a result of the Hyde Amendment, about 7.4 million women ages 15-49 who have health insurance through Medicaid cannot use their insurance to cover abortion in most circumstances. Kelsey Ryland with All* Above All sits down with us to discuss the details of the Hyde Amendment related to abortion funding restrictions, how it affects women, and why it must go. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Fri, September 28, 2018
A Podcast About All Things Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights
So we say this a podcast about all things repro, but it's actually about all things sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). SRHR is the sum of rights and health issues that are related to human reproduction. Sexual health, sexual rights, reproductive health and reproductive rights are a complex and intersecting set of issues that address full control over individual’s sexual and reproductive lives and maintenance of a state of physical, mental and social wellbeing. Nina Besser-Doorley from the International Women’s Health Coalition (IWHC) explains the components of SRHR and how it is currently faring in the domestic and global arena. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, September 11, 2018
Let's Talk About Sex...Education
Comprehensive sexuality education refers to sequential learning between grades K-12, where young people are building education and skills related to medically-accurate and scientific topics that are age, developmentally, and culturally appropriate and related to a host of sexual health issues. These issues include human development, healthy relationships, communication, pregnancy and reproduction, HIV and STD prevention, and sexual health and behaviors, including abstinence. The goal of sex education is to equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to live sexually healthy lives. So why is it such a contentious battleground in the U.S.? Jesse Boyer with the Guttmacher Institute talks to us about sex education across the country. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, September 04, 2018
Bonus Pod: Crisis Pregnancy Centers, SCOTUS and Why We Need to #StopKavanaugh
Crisis Pregnancy Centers are centers that exist to deter pregnant women from receiving abortions. They provide pregnancy tests, anti-abortion counseling and material resources for pregnant women. There are an estimated 2,750 Crisis Pregnancy Centers serving 2.3 million people in the United States today. This number might seem high, but it is actually a low and out of date estimate from 2010. In this episode we talk to Amy Myrick with the Center for Reproductive Rights about Supreme Court case National Institute of Family and Life Advocates v. Becerra and what it would mean for Brett Kavanaugh to replace Justice Kennedy. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, August 28, 2018
Title X Under Attack
Title X is the national family planning and reproductive health program for low income women and men enacted by Congress and signed into law by President Richard Nixon in 1970. The bipartisan program was intended to combat the war on poverty; low income women were having more children than higher income women, due to poor access to contraception and its high costs. Title X was created to equalize access to modern contraceptive care, and the program still fulfills that promise today. Clare Coleman, President of the National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association (NFPRHA), talks to us about NFPRHA, Title X, and what we can do to save Title X from the current administration’s unprecedented attacks. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, August 14, 2018
Meghla Akter on Avoiding Child Marriage
In Bangladesh, 52% of girls are married by their 18th birthday. In more rural communities, the numbers are even worse, where 71% of girls are married before the age of 18. Meghla Akter was almost forced into marrying a 30 year old man at 13, when her mother threatened to kill herself if she didn’t go through with the marriage. She managed to escape to a friend’s house, where she took refuge. Her mother refused to talk to her for three months and restricted her education. With time, Meghla was able to return to school and about to start at university. At 18, she wants to help other girls and boys who are facing similar situations. Meghla currently serves as the vice-chairperson of the World Vision’s Child Forum, where she works to prevent child marriage in Bangladesh. She was recently named in Ashoka Bangladesh Change Maker. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 31, 2018
Fighting Child Marriage in India
In Rajasthan, India, child marriage is a tradition. But, the practice isn’t limited only to the one northwestern state; while child marriage is a global issue, India has the highest number of child brides in the world. While over the last decade, India has witnessed one of the largest declines in child marriage rates, it is estimated that 27% (down from 50%) of girls in India are married before their 18th birthday. Arvind Ojha with Urmul Trust and one of the founding members of Girls Not Brides talks to us about how child marriage specifically impacts young girls in India. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Wed, July 18, 2018
Child Marriage in Latin America
Nearly 1 in 4 girls across Latin America and the Caribbean are married before the age of 18. Girls who are at the highest risk of getting married as a child are usually from poorer homes in rural areas, or from indigenous groups. Latin America and the Caribbean is the only region in the world where there has been no significant decline or change in rates of child marriage in the last 30 years. Perla Vasquez with the Central American Mexican Youth Fund talks to us about child marriage in Latin America and how this discourse differs from other regions of the world. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, July 03, 2018
Ending Child Marriage
Every year 12 million girls are married before the age of 18, according to data from the UN. That breaks down to 23 girls getting married every minute. Child marriage is a violation of girls human rights and can have severe, lifelong physical, mental, emotional and financial consequences. It leaves young girls particularly vulnerable to rape, maternal and child mortality, and gender based violence. It also often forces girls to put aside their education, potential, and empowerment for a limited future. We sit down with Gayatri Patel and Nidal Karim from Care USA to talk about child marriage. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, June 19, 2018
How the Administration is Attacking Repro Rights in the US and Overseas
Every person, no matter who they are and where they live, should be able to make basic health decisions about their lives. Reproductive health and rights are both a domestic and international issue; we cannot talk about one without the other. But, attempting to keep up-to-date on the global fight on reproductive health can often be overwhelming. Helping us bridge that gap is Chloe Cooney with Planned Parenthood Federation of America. Because both in the United States and abroad, the intention behind every policy that limits reproductive health is an attack on women’s rights. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, June 05, 2018
PEPFAR: Achieving an AIDS - Free Generation
The President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) is a program that was born from bipartisan legislation in 2003 under George W. Bush’s administration. It was the biggest global health investment for a single disease by any country in the world, and still is today. We sit down with Caitlin Horrigan from Planned Parenthood Federation of America to discuss the evolution of PEPFAR, the ways in which it has provided care for HIV/AIDS patients around the world, and the attacks it is now facing from the Trump administration. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 22, 2018
Queering Repro
Reproductive health and the LGBTQ+ community are often talked about separately, but both groups intersect, and oftentimes fight the same battles for the same populations. Bodily autonomy, the ability to plan if and when you have children, the ability to plan your pregnancy and family without government intrusion, and avoiding societal oppression and discrimination are issues that intertwine the LGBTQ+ community with reproductive health. We talk to Candace Bond-Theriault at the National LGBTQ Task Force to talk queering repro. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, May 08, 2018
Meeting the Health Needs of Sex Workers
The sex work population is one of the most marginalized and stigmatized; sex workers face consistent human rights abuses, like lack of access to primary and reproductive health care and violence, on a daily basis. Preston Mitchum with Advocates for Youth sits down with us to explain this lack of access to health care and how it impacts an already extremely vulnerable population of people both in the United States and abroad. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 24, 2018
Religious Refusals: A License to Discriminate
A religious refusal is when a healthcare provider (such as a doctor, nurse, CEO, receptionist, or member of a hospital board) refuses to provide or facilitate healthcare because it goes against their personal religious beliefs. This most often impacts services like abortion, miscarriage management, contraception prescriptions/procedures, HIV/AIDS treatment, and hormone therapy that women and LGBTQ+ people disproportionately require. Healthcare providers can ever refuse to provide information about healthcare conditions or referrals for appropriate care. Refusal to provide information and services translates to discrimination based on identity and orientation, and can put a patient’s life in danger. Rachel Easter from National Women’s Law Center discusses religious refusals and how they are shaping the world of healthcare. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, April 10, 2018
The Maternal Health Crisis Facing Black Women
Women in the U.S. are more likely to die from pregnancy or childbirth related causes than women in other developed countries. Unfortunately this is disproportionately felt by black women. Black women are more likely to die from childbirth or pregnancy related causes than white women by an outrageous 243 percent. Jamila Taylor, Senior Fellow with Center for American Progress sits down with us and explains that, without addressing the root causes and disparities between black women and non-Hispanic white women, black women will continue to die premature, preventable deaths. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 27, 2018
#EndFGM: Researching to End FGM/C in a Generation
200 million girls in 30 countries have undergone female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) and 13 million girls under the age of 15 are at risk of undergoing FGM/C. Dr. Jacinta Muteshi-Strachan, FGM researcher with Population Council, sits down with us to discuss FGM/C, (which occurs in 30 countries across Africa, Asia and possibly South America), and the impacts surrounding this severe violation of the human rights of girls and women around the world. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, March 13, 2018
Gender Based Violence and SRHR
Worldwide, 1 in 3 women will experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. Tarah Demant with Amnesty International talks to us about gender-based violence, its ties to sexual and reproductive health and rights, and what it looks like throughout the world. Gender-based violence (GBV) is committed against someone based on their actual or perceived gender or actual or perceived sex. Traditionally, GBV is committed against women and girls, but it is important to recognize that this violence can also occur in the LGBTQ+ community and against men and boys. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Wed, February 28, 2018
Justice for Jane
When a person crosses a border, they still carry fundamental human rights- including the right to choose if, when, and how they have a family. Bethany Van Kampen from the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health discusses the reproductive health needs of migrants fleeing their home countries and how these needs are failing to be met in the United States. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, February 13, 2018
#FundUNFPA to Support Women and Girls Around the World
In 1994, the United Nation’s Population Fund (UNFPA) held the International Conference on Population and Development in Cairo, Egypt. The idea of population shifted from demographic trends and numbers to individuals that have a right to determine and plan their family size. Ensuring the empowerment of women and girls around the world became the resulting plan of action. Sarah Craven, the Washington representative for UNFPA, talks to us about the ideal family planning scenario around the world; every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person can live their life with full potential. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 30, 2018
20 Week Abortion Bans: Unnecessary and Arbitrary
January 22, 2018 marked the 45th anniversary of the passage of the Supreme Court ruling Roe w. Wade. There’s no question that the landmark ruling is under attack; 401 abortion restrictions have passed since January of 2011. We sit down with Dr. Jamila Perritt, an OB-GYN and fellow with Physicians for Reproductive Health, to discuss the restrictive legislation that is gaining popularity with anti-choice legislators and has already passed the House: the 20-week abortion ban.A 20 –week abortion ban is an unnecessary, arbitrary ban on one of the safest medical procedures for women. The ban is based on gestational age and limits women’s abilities to access comprehensive abortion care.20-week abortion bans, Heartbeat bans, and other TRAP (Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers) laws are presented to sound innocuous. Anti-choice politicians and advocates often support 20-week abortion bans by stating that such limitations improve the health and safety of women receiving the procedure, even though abortion is one of the safest procedures a woman can have. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 16, 2018
Global Gag Rule
January 23, 2017 marks the one year anniversary of the reinstatement of one of the most pressing reproductive health issues today, the inhumane policy known as the Global Gag Rule, which undermines family planning efforts and threatens the health and lives of individuals and families abroad. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, January 02, 2018
Birth Control Benefit
In this episode, Mara Gandal-Powers with the National Women’s Law Center talks to us about the Affordable Care Act’s momentous birth control benefit, which allows women to access contraception without a co-pay. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 19, 2017
rePROs Fight Back: Setting the Scene Domestic Update
In this episode, we bring you up to speed on the current status of reproductive health and rights in the United States. Planned Parenthood Federation of America’s Jacqueline Ayers talks to us about the good and the bad of reproductive and sexual health in the United States. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 19, 2017
rePROs Fight Back: Setting the Scene International Update
Now that we know how the U.S. is advancing, we have to ask: what is the status of accessible reproductive and sexual healthcare throughout the rest of the world? In this episode, we set the scene. Jonathan Rucks from PAI discusses how women and girls in developing countries may achieve access to family planning initiatives while he also helps us tackle the international side of reproductive health. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
Tue, December 19, 2017
rePROs Fight Back: Reproductive Justice
There’s a radical idea that you are in charge of your own reproductive future, and that you have the right to choose if, when and how you have children, don’t have children, and choose to parent your children. In this episode, Heidi Williamson from In Our Own Voice, The National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, sits down with us to discuss the importance of reproductive justice and how it works in tandem with reproductive health. You might be interested in the Public Health is Dead podcast: https://www.publichealthisdead.com/ 9o03 Support the show Follow Us on Social : Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfb Facebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Email us : jennie@reprosfightback.com Rate and Review on Apple Podcast Thanks for listening & keep fighting back!
loading...