Did you catch our recent video exposing anti-abortion leader Kristan Hawkins? As part of our Stop Prosecuting Abortion campaign, we recently published a video taken of the Students for Life of America president admitting that she would consider prosecuting women who have had abortions once “laws and culture change.” This declaration proves that Hawkins and other anti-abortion leaders will go to dangerous lengths to attack abortion care, along with the people accessing it. In the new year, anti-abortion leaders and groups are escalating their tactics to push for the criminalization of abortion seekers, and we won’t let them win. Together, we can protect abortion seekers through networks of support.
As we reset in the new year, it’s time to reenergize and plug in. With the increase in militaristic violence and surveillance across our cities, our autonomy and privacy are at risk. Trump’s deployment of the National Guard in D.C. and elsewhere has done nothing but increase entry points to criminalization and leave residents feeling less safe than before. Now more than ever, it’s critical to recognize that reproductive justice cannot exist under the threat of militarization. Last month, we published a blog post discussing organizing strategies under a para-military state, and how to move forward through community networks. Wherever you are, support your local community aid organizations this year to support lasting access to abortion care. Community care can, and will, protect your neighbors, abortion seekers, providers, and everyone from escalating methods of criminalization.
Read more about organizing for reproductive justice under a surveillance state here.
Self-Care
Self-care is an intentional practice that roots us in the present despite the oppression we may face. Regular self-care is essential for sustainable and effective activism.
Here are our self-care tips for January:
Talk to people! I'm trying to cultivate more human interaction these days as part of my resistance against AI- and algorithm-fueled isolation. Every day I challenge myself to have a conversation—either by phone, text, or ideally in person—that isn't about work, and isn't with someone who already lives in my house. I recently got a great tattoo artist recommendation from my barista, and it really made my day. – Andrea, Senior Vice President of Research
Fuzzy slippers, anyone? I've been a bare-feet-all-year (in the home) person as long as I can remember. But this year? I've pulled out the thick socks and chunky slippers on the especially cold days we've had lately in D.C. I'm big enough to admit they make a difference and are worth investing in if you want to feel a bit more cozy, and warm feet helps overall circulation, too! - Shireen, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Step outside. Try exploring a state park or a local trail and go have a mini adventure. Being outdoors has been a great way to ground yourself when everything feels overwhelming. Allow yourself to release all expectations and just be. – Jacqueline, Senior Outreach Coordinator
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