Today begins the ’14 fight for reproductive justice in RI

“In Rhode Island there is a real need for reproductive justice,” wrote RI National Organization for Women President Carolyn Mark on this site last week.

If you agree, join her, Paula Hodges of Planned Parenthood, doctors, clergy members, lawmakers, activists and progressive former state Senator Rhoda Perry at the State House today to “launch the 2014 legislative agenda for the RI Coalition for Reproductive Justice,” according to a release.

Some of the issues this coalition will be working towards this session, wrote Mark, include: “1) access to comprehensive reproductive health services and insurance, 2)the elimination of gender discrimination in health insurance, 3) access to affordable child care, 4) dedicated funding for domestic violence prevention and 5) commonsense accommodations for pregnant women.”

The agenda also includes:

Social & Economic Implications of Reproductive Justice for Women
      Marcia Coné, Executive Director of the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island

What is reproductive justice & what are our moral obligations as a civil society?
Rev. Amy Frenze, Pastor at Hope Congregational Church UCC

Delivering on Reproductive Justice in the health care system
 Dr. Christine Brousseau, RI American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology

The need is urgent:  Reproductive Justice is critical to saving women’s lives
     Vanessa Volz, Sojourner House Executive Director

No more labels – Making a commitment to solving real problems
    Senator Josh Miller, Health & Human Services Committee Chair

Then afterwards, join coalition members at Rue De L’espoir where the group “will share more about PP’s 2014 electoral and legislative plans.”