As we all know, with the overturning of Roe v Wade there is a threat to the reproductive rights of women in America. Americans are divided by the issue of abortion. This issue is not new for American women, but I want to emphasize the opportunity we have to elect representatives at any level that advocate for feminists.
Virginia has the potential to set a precedent for the south. Several southern states already have a ban on 15-week abortions. Women in these states have been faced with greater stigmas about women’s healthcare. Abortion access is indicative of other issues of inclusion and autonomy of all genders. Typically where abortions are legal, there is less stigma about healthcare for women and more funding for sexual education.
This is an issue because women who do not have access to an abortion are taught less about safe sex practices. When education systems do not properly educate women and men on sexual health and safe sexual practice there is less transparency and people are less likely to be aware of the consequences of their practices.
This is why it is important to advocate for politicians that also want to speak on these issues and support women by educating them and allowing them the resources to understand their bodies. The more these issues are talked about openly, the more everyone benefits from the conversation.
It is important to contextualize abortion beyond the choice to terminate a pregnancy. Disability is not usually considered in the issue of reproductive rights. There are women who are limited in contraceptive measures, and most importantly women who without an abortion would not be able to carry a baby to term because it would be putting their life in danger.
With election day coming up consider you experiences, but do not forget about the experiences of others and check your privilege. Ask yourself if the issues that are important to you effect people like you disproportionally? If not, then look into what their perspective is and advocate for it. Do not forget that they are called representatives because they are meant to represent you, but it is important to understand the breadth of the tough issues! Get out to the polls and vote for the people you believe in the most!
ShoutOut! James Madison University 
This is such a pivotal moment in American history, you did a great job encompassing it and encouraging readers to vote! It is so important to look beyond our own privileges to consider the circumstances of others while deciding what we should vote for.
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Your perspective on the importance of advocating for representatives who support women’s reproductive rights and broader issues of inclusion and autonomy is powerful. It’s crucial to recognize that discussions around abortion extend beyond a singular choice; they encompass issues of healthcare, education, and the overall well-being of women. Your call to consider the experiences of others, to check our privilege, and to vote for representatives who truly understand and champion diverse perspectives is an inspiring reminder of the collective responsibility we bear in shaping a more inclusive and supportive society.
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