The shame and stigma surrounding abortion can be destructive to people around the world, specifically women, Long Beach City College can use this pivotal time to open dialogue around abortion.
Abortions are a constitutional right that were fought for in 1973 during Roe v. Wade when the Supreme Court decided that a woman’s reproductive rights would be protected by the Fourteenth Amendment.
Women’s reproductive rights in Alabama are at stake while state legislators are working to reverse this decision and limit women’s reproductive rights, resulting up to 99 years in prison.
Where Alabama is moving to restrict women’s rights, California has made it accessible for when and where a woman can choose to have an abortion.
The American Civil Liberties Union, also known as ACLU is prepared to take states who are trying to make abortion a crime to court.
Californians may not be aware of the privilege that they have living in a state that is known to provide a social and legal environment to provide abortions to its citizens.
According to Student Health Services at Long Beach City College, if a woman comes in asking for resources regarding an abortion, they will meet with a nurse practitioner and be referred to an organization dedicated to performing abortions safely and legally.
The health services office offers pamphlets that provide insight on women’s health and abortion resources.
According to the front desk assistant at the Student Health Services Office, LBCC is required to refer students to proper health care facilities but there are extra steps LBCC can take to contribute to breaking down social biases.
Abortions have become so stigmatized it may be shocking when abortion becomes a part of normal conversation, if LBCC can play a role in ending this stigma and creating a safe space for abortions to be talked about freely, without judgement.
After the false shooter alarm on PCC, Long Beach City College held a group circle which was successful despite the gun being a prop, people still felt the need to have a dialogue about their feelings.
LBCC and the Health Services Office can work together and organize things such as panels and community talking circles dedicated to educating individuals about abortion and women’s health, LBCC can help more people understand why abortions are a constitutional right.
Long Beach City College can invite an individual who is open to sharing their abortion experience and make it a learning experience for others.
There are many factors that play into unsafe, self-induced abortions, such as lack of healthcare, financial restrictions, or even fear, fear of speaking out and asking for help.