First off: In no way am I trying to promote pro-life or pro- choise. This is just a little something that I found kinda interesting! Hope you all do as well!
I came across a small article today that was centered around the phrase 'Reproductive Justice' and its rising popularity. It gave reason and explanation for this developing trend being used by abortion- rights advocates. It is meant to shine light on the inequality that gets in the way of womens reproductive choices. This term is being used instead (in favor) of, and alongside, the term 'choice' or 'pro-choice'.
The term was coined by feminist activists in the 1990's who thought choice was too much of a constricting word to frame their discussions and support off of.
The article quoted:
"We realized choice was an aspiration and not a reality for many of us, and was too narrow to speak to people without privilege... We decided what we needed was reproductive justice--the removal of the structural inequalities that blocked our access to choice."
I found it very interesting and slightly upsetting that I have never heard of this term before. I feel as though I am always seeing/hearing things about pro-life and pro-choice movements, although this phrase has never been mentioned.
I thought I would bring this little bit of information to the blog and see if anyone is familiar with this term or any history behind it?! Or, what do you guys think about the term being used? (just the term, not about the pro-choice arguement. I don't what to bring any negative tension about this sometimes touchy subject) :)
Reproductive justice is difficult to talk about for a number of reasons, including why it is difficult to talk about justice itself. For instance, are we going to talk about reproductive justice for the mother, father, and child?
ReplyDeleteOr does reproductive justice refer to the obligation of the family to society and vice versa?
For instance, should a woman and a man have a child in a world that is already far "overpopulated" beyond its ability to sustain? Is that "just" to bring in another person?
What I like about bringing in "new" terms for such a difficult topic is that everyone on either side needs to ask themselves some serious questions that require serious thought.