Reproductive Justice by Sana Vasi

Reproductive Justice Reproductive justice differs from reproductive choice in that it takes into account the intersectionality of gender and race and their impact on women of color in the US. For many, access to reproductive services isn’t simply a matter of choice, but one of practicality. Even when women want an abortion, it can be difficult to obtain one when lobbyists are working so hard to shut down Planned Parenthood clinics across the country. However, reproductive justice also involves more than just the right to abortion; rather, it has a lot to do with bodily autonomy, “honoring the experiences” of women, and giving them the freedom to “uphold [their] dignity, [their] bodies, and families” (California Latinas for Reproductive Justice). Organizations, such as California Latinas for Reproductive Justice work hard to ensure that these women are given a voice and have the opportunity to obtain healthcare. Advocates believe in “community education and mobilization” of California’s most underrepresented Latinas—such as “low-income, undocumented immigrants, LGBTQ, and young women” (California Latinas for Reproductive Justice). Reproductive justice means providing “educational and social support” to ensure a healthy, economically secure future for the women who need it the most (California Latinas for Reproductive Justice). Reproductive justice can also be politically motivated. For example, the organization, Black Women for Wellness, aims to expand reproductive justice through female empowerment. They work to [sponsor] and/or [support] bills that affect the reproductive health choices of women and girls” (Black Women for Wellness). Their shared mission involves “lifting up the voice for Black women” to increase the reproductive services that positively benefit their health and happiness as well as using leadership to “validate Black women’s and girls’ experience” (Black Women for Wellness). Thus, reproductive justice is more than the right to choose. Rather, it is the opportunity to access the services that empower women and allow them to lead happy, fulfilling lives.