On October 2, 2021, hundreds of pro-choice activists took to the streets of St. Louis in an attempt to protect the right to abortion access. The event took place at Luther Ely Smith Square, where the exquisite view of the historical Arch and the Old Courthouse fueled protestors’ urges to battle for reproductive freedom.
The Stop the Bans Coalition, which consists of several local activist organizations, aims to defend the reproductive rights of all individuals by planning pro-choice events throughout the nation. The purpose of this rally was to oppose one of the most extreme abortion bills our country has seen since Alabama’s near-total ban on abortion. Missourians are fighting a decision that bans abortions after eight weeks, a grave injustice to women everywhere. This restrictive policy could potentially render Roe v. Wade obsolete.
Pro-choice signs waved in the sky, detailing the statements, “I stand with planned parenthood,” and “I am a woman, not a womb.” Chants in support of the movement and its followers filled the air.
This rally was a beautiful and unified celebration of feminism and reproductive freedom around the nation. Missouri was one of the many states participating in the movement to condemn Texas’ restrictive law. A community of like-minded individuals came together to provide a united front against the nation’s growing abortion bands. During my time at the rally, I felt connected with other people in our shared goals of defending bodily autonomy.
Individuals gathered this weekend for a common purpose: to support a woman’s right to choose. An overwhelming sense of comradery filled the air with excitement and an inspiration to engage in more pro-choice events. The support I felt amongst all of the protesters in this area was unmatched by any feeling.
Marches are a platform for a plethora of voices to be heard. While rallies like these don’t necessarily make or break laws, they can alter public opinion regarding important issues. People coming together to show support can transform history as we know it. They are a tool to gain momentum for significant movements. Rallies help to reveal the population that certain policies affect and showcase the many people who are serious about making a change.
As a woman, I am passionate about defending the right to a safe and legal abortion. I believe the restrictions currently being placed on this access are an outrageous denial of human rights. The implementation of laws restricting abortion access is not only sexist, but dangerous to women experiencing life-threatening pregnancies. Regardless of your stance on this polarizing topic, I encourage you to research the implements of this decision on your mothers, sisters and friends. It is essential to support a woman’s constitutional right to terminate a pregnancy. I encourage you to empathize with others first to gain a more intensive understanding of the perspectives of others, and most importantly, keep an open mind when learning about this sensitive issue.