#United States #New York #CUNY SPH #reproductive justice #Abigail Disney

Reproductive Justice Advocates Gather to Address Current Challenges

On December 10, reproductive justice advocates convened at the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy to engage in a crucial dialogue under the banner "Reproductive Justice: Where Do We Go From Here?" This event was sponsored by the Sexual and Reproductive Justice Hub (SRJ Hub) at CUNY, with philanthropist and filmmaker Abigail Disney serving as the moderator. The discussion took place in the context of the significant shifts in the landscape of women's rights following recent electoral events.

Setting the Stage with State Leadership

The evening began with an impactful video message from Governor Kathy Hochul, emphasizing the need to safeguard reproductive rights in an era of heightened challenges. Her remarks underscored New York's role as a safe haven for reproductive services, a theme echoed throughout the panel.

The panel featured prominent figures in reproductive justice, including:

• - Terry McGovern: Senior Associate Dean at CUNY SPH and founding faculty member of the SRJ Hub
• - Regina Davis Moss: President and CEO of In Our Own Voice
• - Dázon Dixon Diallo: Founder of SisterLove, Inc.
• - Isabelle Villa Real Seabra: CUNY SPH student advocate
• - Lynn Roberts: Associate Dean at CUNY SPH
• - Danielle Greene: Executive Director for state and local public health initiatives at CUNY SPH

Key Themes and Strategies Discussed

Intersectionality in Reproductive Justice

Dixon Diallo stressed that achieving true reproductive justice demands a holistic approach that encompasses racial, gender, and economic equity. She called on communities to expand the concept of sexual and reproductive health, ensuring that it resonates beyond the traditional narrative surrounding pregnancy and abortion.

Economic and Public Health Concerns

The panelists discussed the economic and health ramifications of dismantling reproductive healthcare systems, which compel individuals to travel greater distances for necessary services or, worse, do without care altogether. McGovern emphasized that the implications of this shift are extensive: "The public health implications are profound. The overturning of Roe did not just mark the end; it opened the floodgates for future rollbacks on progress we've made."

Harnessing Youth Leadership

Another focal point was the vital importance of engaging young advocates. Villa Real Seabra highlighted the need to foster spaces where youth can lead initiatives, drawing lessons from Latin America’s feminist movements that prioritize intersectionality and combat gender-based violence. She asserted, "This movement has always adapted, and it will continue to do so."

State-Level Advocacy

Moss called attention to the critical need for state advocacy, including efforts aimed at informing voters and leveraging ballot measures to solidify reproductive rights. By showcasing effective progressive policies, advocates can normalize comprehensive reproductive health policies that promise tangible benefits.

A Call for Continued Solidarity

The discussions culminated in a unified message from the panelists: continued mobilization and community engagement are essential. McGovern underscored that this moment in the reproductive justice movement is not solely about resilience; it’s about active resistance and resolve. He encouraged participants to work collectively and prioritize the needs of marginalized communities in their advocacy efforts.

Conclusion

As the event coincided with Human Rights Day and the conclusion of the Global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, the significance of ongoing activism was clear. The SRJ Hub, now in its inaugural year, aims to place the experiences of marginalized voices at the forefront of its initiatives. For more information on the SRJ Hub and its efforts, including the Byllye Avery Sexual and Reproductive Justice Professorship, interested individuals are encouraged to visit their online platforms and social media.

In conclusion, the event at CUNY served not just as a meeting of minds but as a rallying cry for justice and equity in an ever-evolving landscape of reproductive rights. As advocates prepare to face future challenges, their commitment to community, solidarity, and actionable change remains unwavering.