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How To Support Reproductive Rights This Election Season

With reproductive rights facing unprecedented challenges, it’s crucial to understand the facts and take action now to support women’s health.


 

Reproductive rights are not just a political issue—they are deeply personal. They are hard-won victories in the long journey for safety, dignity, and equality for all. In the 2024 election in the United States, reproductive rights were a top issue on voters’ minds and the ballots.

As Alexa Telano, Manager of Development at the nonprofit 3 Generations, poignantly noted, “Women’s rights are under attack. More than ever, we need the voices of those affected by abortion bans and diminishing reproductive rights.”

If you care about women’s reproductive rights, you don’t have to wait for an election day to make a difference.

This article explores how to combat misinformation about reproductive health, harness the power of charitable donations to support reproductive rights, and find vetted nonprofits that are working every day to stand up for women’s rights and health.

Here are three ways you can support reproductive rights now and beyond the 2024 election season:

    1. Debunk harmful myths about reproductive rights.

    Understanding the facts is crucial in combating harmful myths about reproductive rights that can mislead and misinform the public.

    Below are three common myths about reproductive rights, followed by the facts:

    Myth #1: Reproductive rights equate to abortion only.

    Fact: Some people equate reproductive rights solely with the right to have an abortion, overlooking the broader scope of reproductive healthcare, including access to lifesaving interventions, contraception, prenatal care, and comprehensive sex education. For example, in the upcoming election, one of the policies being discussed would decrease federal spending for Medicaid in the United States, which in turn could threaten postpartum coverage and create barriers for people who have limited incomes to receive preventive health services before, during, and after pregnancy.

    Myth #2: All abortions are late-term.

    Fact: Most abortions occur very early in pregnancy; in fact, less than 1% of abortions take place in the third trimester, while 90% happen in the first trimester.

    Myth #3: People won’t use birth control if abortion is easily available.

    Fact: Did you know that about half of individuals who get abortions report using some form of birth control during the month they became pregnant? This highlights that unplanned pregnancies can occur even with contraceptive use, whether due to failure (like a condom breaking or being on the pill but still becoming pregnant) or other factors.

    There are also varied reasons someone may seek an abortion that deeply personal. Factors can include a lack of access to accurate reproductive health information, challenges in obtaining affordable birth control, or situations like sexual assault. Assumptions about why someone may face an unplanned pregnancy often overlook the complexities involved.

    2. Get involved with advocacy and education.

    Your voice matters, and it has the power to make a real difference in safeguarding reproductive rights.

    Here are some creative ways to get involved in safeguarding women’s reproductive rights:

  • Attend workshops and seminars: Take this time as an opportunity to dive deeper into reproductive health issues by attending local workshops, webinars, or community discussions. Knowledge is power, and being informed enables you to share accurate information and learn more about an important topic that may directly affect you or someone in your life.
  • Write to your representatives: Contact your elected officials to express your support for reproductive rights. Your voice can influence policy decisions and demonstrate that members of your community value access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare.
  • Volunteer your time: Many organizations welcome volunteers for various roles, from administrative support to outreach programs. Your time and skills can be invaluable in the fight for reproductive rights.
  • 3. Harness the power of charitable donations.

    Supporting reproductive rights financially can have a profound impact. Charitable donations to nonprofits that advocate for women’s reproductive health can help ensure access to essential services and support those in need.

    Here are four key considerations when supporting reproductive rights through donation:

  • Support local Initiatives: Look for local clinics and advocacy groups that provide direct services and education within your community. Local organizations often have a profound understanding of the specific challenges women face and can address them more effectively.
  • Consider monthly giving: A recurring donation can provide organizations with a reliable source of funding, allowing them to plan and implement long-term initiatives that support reproductive rights. Even a small monthly contribution can make a significant difference over time.
  • Participate in fundraising events: Engage with or donate to events that raise awareness and funds for reproductive rights. These events not only provide financial support but also create opportunities to connect with others who share your passion for advocacy.
  • Find reputable, vetted organizations through the GlobalGiving platform: Our platform of more than 6,000 nonprofit partners is a great place to find organizations safeguarding reproductive rights and doing other related work for women’s rights in their communities.
  • Here are a few trusted organizations working on reproductive rights in the US that you can support this election season and beyond:

  • Women’s Health Specialist gives women the reproductive health knowledge and life skills they need to build self-confidence and hone their leadership abilities through this peer-based leadership program.
  • 3 Generations is telling the stories of reproductive justice through an intergenerational lens.
  • Women’s Global Network for Reproductive Rights mobilizes global campaigns challenging stigmas and myths about abortion, discrimination, institutional violence, and the increasing restrictions on women’s reproduction rights happening worldwide.
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    Donating to organizations that align with your values not only supports their essential work but also sends a powerful message about the importance of protecting reproductive rights.

    Make a donation today to support reproductive rights this election season.

    DONATE NOW

    Featured Photo: Reproductive health is an issue in the 2024 election that you can impact beyond the ballot box. Photo by Getty Images

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