Not just in the wake of Texas’ controversial laws, but in general
Cleveland State University’s Society of Intersectional Feminists is a student organization committed to advancing feminist causes, including reproductive rights. This has recently become a hot topic, with a recent Texas law banning most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy.
This flouts the landmark supreme court ruling in Roe v. Wade, which struck down many abortion restriction laws in 1973 after it was determined by this case that the Constitution protects the ability to choose to have an abortion without excessive government restriction.
The Supreme Court did not block the Texas law, adding fuel to the fire between feminist groups and citizens who oppose abortion throughout the United States. CSU Intersectional Feminists’ Vice President Noa Cook stated that the campus club has been- and still is- raising awareness of all women and their rights.
“As a group, we have raised awareness regarding the state of Reproductive Rights through meetings, events and social media,” Cook said. “In addition, we’ve had held events on campus such as Feminism 101 and Condoms, Candy and Consent. The latter is a sex positive event that welcomes all students. In years past we’ve offered information regarding contraception, have given out Plan B, and consistently offer condoms to the student body.”
As discussion about reproductive rights has heightened since the recent decision by Texas to ban abortion, Cook mentioned throughout all eras of history, abortion has been restricted in some nature.
“There is the potential that due to the restriction on abortion access, there will end up being an increase in mothers of college graduate age,” Cook continued. “Thus, more women who become pregnant may opt to put a pause on their careers, as they have less choices available due to this decision. This may ultimately cause the unemployment rate for this age group to decrease.”
“Honestly, we could and should be doing more,” Cook said, noting the significance of raising awareness. “Potential ideas include holding events, highlighting the necessity of accessible reproductive healthcare and providing information linking to student resource options.”
Reproductive rights can be described as polarizing, with passionate advocates on both sides. Cook made sure to clarify the Texas incident will only increase tensions.
“Now, you are seeing an uproar from pro-choice individuals because we are terrified of having our rights stripped away,” Cook stated.
As an overall outlook on issues in America involving the rights of women and feminism movements, Cook addressed the stigma surrounding the term itself.
“The stigma regarding the term ‘”feminism”‘ is disturbing,” Cook added. “So often, people don’t even really know what the term means or what it stands for. They interpret it in a very extreme and often inaccurate way that doesn’t represent a majority of feminists. However, our organization and modern-day Intersectional Feminism is dedicated to uplifting the voices of all.”
From the CSU International Feminists’ committee, all are welcome in defending the rights of women, regardless of the cause.