Life
With Planned Parenthood's very existence at risk and our reproductive rights threatened in a whole new (and terrifying) way, many of us of wondering how we can help our cause — and it doesn't end with PP. There are a number of organizations like Planned Parenthood to donate to, that are knee-deep in the fight for reproductive rights and equality. While PP still needs our help, and while it still largely dominates the list of women's and reproductive rights organizations, the others are not to be ignored. There are many of them, some of which you probably haven't even heard of yet.
I know a lot of us are feeling helpless, overpowered by a government that insists on controlling our bodies despite being overwhelmingly run by men. (There's a reason that photo of Trump and a roomful of white men signing an anti-choice order — the Global Gag Rule — struck a chord for so many of us.) Every measure you take to protest this primitive control — every donation, Facebook post, rally attended — is one more instance when you make your voice heard and gain just a little bit more power. And when we combine the power of all of us, amazing things can happen.
Remember that hate never wins, and there are ways to get involved that won't further ignite the hatred that has infiltrated our country. If donating to Planned Parenthood hasn't quenched your thirst yet, here are some other organizations to check out.
1
NARAL — Pro-Choice America
NARAL pushes forward in giving everyone the right to choose abortion if they so wish, access to birth control, offering sex education to all teens, and making sure all people planning on having children have what they need for healthy pregnancies (as well as information about adoption).
2
Center For Reproductive Rights
For over 20 years, the Center for Reproductive Rights has "used the law to advance reproductive freedom as a fundamental human right that all governments are legally obligated to protect, respect, and fulfill." In a nutshell, they want every person who is capable of being pregnant to be able to participate with "full dignity as an equal member of society."
3
Women's Reproductive Rights Assistance Project
The WRRAP helps those who can't afford safe, legal abortions or emergency contraceptives. Fans include the one and only Gloria Steinem.
4
National Abortion Federation
The NAF has set out to make sure everyone is guaranteed safe, legal, and accessible abortion care. They provide the standards of care, protocols, and education to health care professionals.
5
National Women's Health Network
The NWHN's goal is to effect policy and improve women's health by securing accessible health and autonomy for all, giving women a voice, and challenging harmful devices and drugs. They consider themselves an "FDA watchdog."
6
National Network Of Abortion Funds
The National Network of Abortion Funds seeks to remove all financial and logistical obstacles to abortion access for all, regardless of race, financial status, and all other factors. They desire a safe and peaceful environment for people to affirm their own bodies and identities.
7
National Latina Institute For Reproductive Health
The National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health works in the Latina community specifically to guarantee rights to reproductive health, dignity, and justice. The want to change the culture surrounding women's health and reproductive health and bring communities together.
8
Medical Students For Choice
Speaking of changing culture, Medical Students for Choice aims to remove the stigma among medical students and residents. They also work with schools and programs to get abortion included as part of the curriculum.
9
National Women's Law Center
The NWLC addresses a variety of concerns, including childcare, education, poverty, and LGBTQ equality. In terms of healthcare and reproductive rights, they fight in the name of birth control, abortion, Medicaid/Medicare, and pregnancy and parenting help.
10
Reproductive Health Access Project
The Reproductive Health Access Project offers tools, information, and resources to assist people through the processes of abortion, birth control, and the experience of miscarriage.
11
If When How, Lawyering For Reproductive Justice
This national network of law students and legal professionals wants to ensure that all people have the right to decide if, when, and how they create families.
