Recently we had a gathering of pro-choice voters and supporters come together and celebrate the 37th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. I had the opportunity to speak at the rally. In preparation for  my speech I  began to recall the personal experiences that have led me to become an advocate for sexual reproductive health rights. I thought of my neighbors, schoolmates, and community who felt the negative repercussions of having children at a young age.

I don't know if many of you know this but New Mexico has the 2nd highest rate of teenage pregnancy in the country and Southern New Mexico (where Las Cruces is located) experiences even higher rates of teenage pregnancy than the state average. Las Cruces is fairly conservative and the pro-life rally saw more attendance than the pro-choice rally, so it is my mission to promote pro-choice values and show how family planning not only saves lives it enhances the quality of life for families and healthy families means healthy communities.

Wish me luck and I'll keep everyone posted on the challenges and victories of the year!