Yesterday, in a surprising bit of good news, the Supreme Court declined to hear a pair of cases that would have jeopardized abortion access and public funding of reproductive services. In a 6-3 vote, the justices opted not to review the appeals of two cases in Kansas and Louisiana where the lower court ruled that the state could not unilaterally deprive Planned Parenthood of Medicaid funding.
This decision is a welcome relief, but reproductive rights and are still under attack by Republican state governments as well as the Trump administration. The success of Republican challengers against pro-choice senators last month only shows the continued strength of the anti-abortion lobby. This week’s Take Action Now gives you ways to help protect the right to a safe and affordable abortion.
Can you help us grow Take Action Now? Forward this week’s actions to your friends and they can sign up here.
NO TIME TO SPARE?
Even in states where abortion is legally permitted, access can be difficult if not impossible: licensed clinics are fewer and farther between each year, and those that do survive attacks from Republican lawmakers are often desperately underfunded. Volunteer for and donate to organizations like the New Orleans Abortion Fund or Oklahoma’s Roe Fund to ensure your time and money goes directly toward services for those who need them.
GOT SOME TIME?
Though a large majority of Americans believe abortion should be legal, reproductive rights are still seen by many as a subject deserving of shame and secrecy. Shout Your Abortion aims to change that by encouraging people who’ve had abortions to say so publicly and without fear; those who stand in solidarity with them can raise their voices as well and help break the silence around this issue.
READY TO DIG IN?
Going to an abortion clinic can be a daunting experience, especially if someone has to travel there in secret. You can change that by signing up to be a clinic escort: You can drive patients to the clinic or just accompany them on public transportation and offer moral support. Look for organizations near you that offer clinic escort programs, such as NOW-NYC in New York, or get in touch with the Planned Parenthood Volunteer Center for more information.
