Reproductive Justice Work Should Be Healing Work

We need to start thinking about Reproductive Justice work as healing work. When Roe v. Wade was overturned, most people didn’t believe it would happen. Some organizations went into a defensive mode, while individuals lost faith in the system. There was an unknown feeling because no one knew what would happen to those who needed support.  Instead of going into quick defensive mode, organizations should have taken the time to collaborate with others to find a solution without hurting each other. Reproductive-focused organizations were put in a tough spot by the uncertainty and didn't want to make the wrong decisions. 

With all of the unknown, how can we work together?

Reproductive organizations had to think about what policies we need to put in place and how we advocate for communities. Years later, we are still having a defensive mindset while continuing to fight this fight alone and disconnected. Fighting alone gets us nowhere, but collaborating can make the difference. Working together makes us stronger. I’ve been in this work for 3 years in Montana, working from the policy level down to the community level. There’s so much work to be done. 

The only way we can move forward is by taking accountability. We need to take accountability for how we have treated each other. In terms of Reproductive Justice, Rights, Health, and Freedom work is all interconnected; it's not separate. Until then, the Reproductive Space in Montana will continue to feel divided. 

Justice at the Roots is a new group I’m starting; I want people to come back to a space where they felt pushed out. This space will be a healing space where everyone’s voices, stories, and experiences will be valued and heard. We can heal through relationships.

Reproductive Justice is healing work.