(The following is part of our weeklong Roe v. Wade Blog-a-thon)

This week's celebration of Roe vs. Wade (1973) is much more than about the right to choose...

This contentiously debated decision continues to unite and divide advocates around the nation. The existence of Roe vs. Wade and the Hyde Amendment forces human rights and feminist activists to define their agenda, strategies and targets in ways that reflect how women from all walks of life benefit or do not benefit from these historic policies.

Last Thursday, on a particularly frigid and sunny day, advocates from all over Chicago joined at the Federal Plaza to rally and proclaim, "My body, My choice". This gathering consisted of direct service providers, staffers and volunteers for the Chicago Abortion Fund, feminists, children, and passerbys in solidarity with our cause. This multi-faceted gathering of support proves that collectively we can make a difference but, separately we almost deliberately fracture our efforts.

Our cause, defined in terms of my own politics and view of what our cause should be, critically analyzes the intersectionality of systemic issues that impact a women's right to choose or to parent and therefore, works to create resources that all women and youth can access regardless of ableness, race, gender orientation, socioeconomic status, or creed. 

As a young woman of color, I believe that it is imperative for activists to act in a deliberate manner to address how and if  the  Roe vs. Wade (1973) decision is serving marginal peoples efficiently. If not, at what point will we redefine our strategy, as a movement, to ensure that ALL women and youth can access resources for an abortion, for general preventative healthcare, or for support to parent, to get an education, or to LIVE?

There are countless organizations and individuals working to ensure that all people are treated equally and can access services equally. And, as we reach this momentous occasion, let us be mindful of what the next person is encountering to frame our efforts and continue the good fight for and toward reproductive justice for ALL!

In peace from the windy city!
rcw