Seeking Allies: How to Find Reproductive Justice Organizations in Your Community
The Reproductive Freedom movement is built on the foundation of Reproductive Justice. The reproductive justice movement is a broad, holistic approach to reproductive health and rights created in 1994 by the Women of African Descent for Reproductive Justice.
We pay homage to the amazing women who founded the Reproductive Justice Movement: Toni M. Bond Leonard, Reverend Alma Crawford, Evelyn S. Field, Terri James, Bisola Marignay, Cassandra McConnell, Cynthia Newbille, Loretta Ross, Elizabeth Terry, 'Able' Mable Thomas, Winnette P. Willis, and Kim Youngblood.
This shift was a pivotal response to the mainstream reproductive rights discourse, which primarily focused on the legal right to abortion. The founders of the reproductive justice movement argued that this approach was too narrow and failed to consider the specific experiences of women of color, particularly Black women, who faced systemic inequalities in access to healthcare, economic resources, and freedom from violence. Given the attacks on bodily autonomy today - racial and socioeconomic inequities persist and are at risk of being entrenched if we rely solely on a reproductive rights framework.
Framework
Reproductive justice combines reproductive rights with social justice. The framework is based on three main principles:
The right to have children - ensuring that individuals are not hindered by barriers like involuntary sterilization, lack of access to healthcare, or racial discrimination.
The right not to have children - which includes access to abortion, contraception, and comprehensive sex education.
The right to parent children in safe and sustainable communities - addressing issues such as environmental justice, violence against women, and economic justice.
Building your local network
As you seek to include those with a long-standing history of advancing Reproductive Justice, one of the first principles is to take on the labor of educating yourself directly. Read, listen, and follow those who have been practicing this work, before jumping in to offer your solutions. As we seek to create a better system and support, this practice becomes important to avoid mistakes of the past and build a resilient coalition for the future.
1. Internet Search
Start with a simple Google search using terms like “reproductive justice organizations near me” or “reproductive rights groups in [Your City/State].”
Explore online directories or databases that list social justice or women’s rights organizations.
2. Social Media Platforms
Use social media to find groups that focus on reproductive justice. Search for hashtags like #ReproductiveJustice, #ReproductiveRights, or #WomensHealth on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Follow these accounts to get updates on their activities and learn how to get involved.
3. Nonprofit and Activist Network Websites
Visit websites like Sistersong, Planned Parenthood, Reproductive Freedom for All, Nurses for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Bloom Collective, Forward Together, and Collective Power as a starting point.
4. Community Bulletin Boards and Local Newspapers
Look for notices about meetings or events related to reproductive justice in community centers, libraries, college campuses, and local RJ organizations
Attend public events or lectures on women’s rights and reproductive health to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations.
5. Networking and Word of Mouth
Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they know of any active reproductive justice organizations in the area.
Attend local community or social justice events to meet activists and ask about organizations they might be involved with or recommend.
6. Educational Institutions
Contact local colleges and universities, to identify student groups or academic programs focused on gender studies, public health, or social justice that may be connected to or aware of local organizations.
Attend campus events or guest lectures that focus on reproductive rights and health.
7. Legal Aid and Advocacy Centers
Look for legal aid organizations focused on women’s rights and reproductive freedom. They often work closely with advocacy groups and can provide referrals.
8. Health Clinics and Hospitals
Some health clinics and hospitals partner with or have information about local reproductive justice organizations. Speaking with healthcare providers or social workers there can provide leads.
Remember to evaluate the mission, values, and activities of the organizations you find to ensure they align with your goals and beliefs in reproductive justice. Getting involved with an organization that shares your commitment can be a powerful way to contribute to the cause. This is just a starting point and some high-level ideas - the intention is that city leads are the ones who are committing to enhancing their existing knowledge of their local constellation of organizations supporting this movement.
