On January 22, 1973, the United States Supreme Court case Roe v. Wade, ruled that a woman may legally have an abortion.
In a time where the right to reproductive healthcare and the right of abortion both seem to be hanging in the balance for women in the United States, there are three small ways to celebrate the law that made history and created controversy around the country.
1. Learn about the law. Even if it's through Wikipedia, educate yourself, your friends and your family about the Roe v. Wade case. Research the Hyde Amendment and current discussion with regards to healthcare and reproductive rights. And finally, look into the interactive piece at RH Reality Check- where women write and discuss Roe v. Wade by answering the question "What Does Choice Mean to You?"
For example, Bianca Valdez writes:
"As a young woman of color, I didn’t have a choice but to put myself on birth control because neither I nor my partner have the support systems to allow us to have children and continue our lives, careers, and education. In the same respect, I don’t have a choice but to deal with the stigma of being a young woman of color on birth control..."
2. Educate yourself and others by providing access to accurate sexual health information. Think, "Are there few resources in parts of your community?" If there is a lack of accessibility, join the cause in bridging the gap between low income women and women of color. Volunteer, donate money or join a committee that is dedicated to the expansion of resources for everyone.
3. Think of others. Women in Haiti don't have access to clean water and sanitation to raise their children or give birth. Organizations across the country are struggling to make sure that our new healthcare plans include reproductive healthcare for women. Take the week's worth of money you spend at your local coffee shop and send it over to an organization that is ensuring all women have the right to bear a child, not have a child, and raise a child.