Reproductive Justice

Read the Latest Blog Post about Reproductive Justice Here

Founding/History:

In May of 2022, the Dobbs decision of the Supreme Court was leaked.  Around the country, states, communities, women, and medical practitioners braced for an immediate removal of reproductive rights from about half the country.

At First Unitarian, we were contacted by a national nonprofit organization called Just the Pill, which has created innovative service models like telehealth, mobile, and pop-up clinics while also maintaining connections with colleagues in brick-and-mortar abortion clinics.  They aim not only to mitigate the harm of state abortion bans and restrictions but also address barriers to access, including geographic distance (travel and logistical issues), language and financial barriers, limited clinic options, state restrictions, and clinic policies not fully centered on patients and their well-being.

Just the Pill asked First Unitarian to become a site for them.  Anticipating people heading to Colorado to access safe abortions, we wanted to help them.  However, there was no Faith in Action – a social justice committee to house the project.  A small group of church members, led by Minister Mike Morran, put together the application, which was approved at the June 2022 congregational meeting.

Accomplishments:

For four years, from 2022 to 2026, the Reproductive Justice Committee engaged the congregation to advocate for the rights of women and their self-determination when it comes to reproductive health and access to safe abortions. We worked with a dozen local reproductive justice organizations to raise money, raise awareness, and create success within their work. The most compelling and long-standing success of the committee was our work on the state abortion ballot initiative in 2024. Dozens of First Unitarian members helped put the initiative on the ballot by collecting thousands of signatures. We got it passed by hosting events, attending events, making phone calls, and door-knocking around the state. We also hosted dozens of film nights, book events, storytelling sessions, and four amazing Reproductive Justice Services.

2026 and Beyond:

In 2026, the initiative ended due to the project's success. Many of the nonprofit partners didn't have projects for us to work on and instead just needed funds to continue their important work. We hope they will continue to apply to our Giving in Action to receive donations from the congregation. (link to GIA). We also would like to provide a list of orgs you can make a donation to - even a small one - to continue making known your commitment to reproductive justice: