(Image source: ACLU)
Reproductive healthcare accessibility and legality have been a long-standing issue in the United States, with questions raised about contraception and abortion for over a century. Campaigns advocating for reproductive freedoms have highlighted the harms caused by abortion and contraception bans. However, these efforts have faced pervasive hostility towards women and gender equality.
Recent surveys have shown a significant portion of the population expressing negative views towards gender equality efforts. The misogyny present in society influenced the outcome of the election, where candidates had starkly different views on reproductive rights.
The historical fight for reproductive rights has involved religious and feminist leaders advocating for the elimination of restrictive abortion laws. These efforts have aimed to bring to light the suffering caused by such laws and push for social change.
(Rev. Howard Moody. Image source: Village Preservation)
Advocates have worked to humanize the struggles of abortion seekers and challenge the stigma surrounding reproductive rights. The fight for gender equality and reproductive freedom remains ongoing, with recent political developments highlighting the continued need for advocacy.
Gillian Frank is an Assistant Professor in the History of the Modern United States at Trinity College Dublin. His book, A Sacred Choice: Liberal Religion and the Struggle for Abortion Before Roe v Wade, is forthcoming with University of North Carolina Press.
