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# In Our Own Voice

National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://blackrj.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [In Our Own Voice](https://blackrj.org/blog/)
- [In Our Own Voice Responds to the Fourth Anniversary of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization](https://blackrj.org/ioov-responds-to-the-fourth-anniversary-of-dobbs-v-jackson-womens-health-organization/) - NATIONWIDE — Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, released the following statement marking the fourth anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which overturned Roe v. Wade and eliminated the federal right to abortion. “As we
- [In Our Own Voice Releases Narrative Demand™, New Research Exploring What Stories  Black Women Say are Missing from Media and Culture](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-releases-narrative-demand-new-research-exploring-what-stories-black-women-say-are-missing-from-media-and-culture/) - Qualitative research reveals emerging insights about the gap between dominant narratives and the stories Black women want and need to see
- [In Our Own Voice Responds to Supreme Court Decision on Mifepristone Access](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-responds-to-supreme-court-decision-on-mifepristone-access/) - In response to today’s Supreme Court decision to preserve telehealth access to mifepristone while Louisiana v. FDA litigation continues, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of IOOV, issued the following statement...
- [In Our Own Voice Responds to Court Decision in Louisiana v. FDA](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-responds-to-court-decision-in-louisiana-v-fda/) - “Today’s decision is yet another dangerous escalation in this administration’s campaign to attack reproductive health care by advancing politically motivated restrictions on mifepristone.”
- [In Our Own Voice Denounces Supreme Court Decision Gutting the Voting Rights Act](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-denounces-supreme-court-decision-gutting-the-voting-rights-act/) - “Today’s decision is a devastating blow to our democracy and Black voters who have fought for generations to have our voices heard..."
- [Creators for Change Council: Building Narrative Power in Real Time](https://blackrj.org/creators-for-change-council-building-narrative-power-in-real-time/) - We are in a moment where culture is being shaped in real time—and too often, the narratives about Black women are defined without us. This must change...
- [In Our Own Voice Launches Narrative Power for Justice Initiative](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-launches-narrative-power-for-justice-initiative/) - IOOV has launched Narrative Power for Justice – designed to strengthen the narrative power necessary to advance Reproductive Justice policy nationwide
- [Honoring a Champion for Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/honoring-a-champion-for-black-maternal-health-reproductive-justice/) - IOOV convened leaders on Capitol Hill to honor Congresswoman Robin Kelly for her leadership advancing Black maternal health and reproductive justice.
- [Honoring the Reproductive Justice Leaders of the 119th Congress](https://blackrj.org/honoring-the-reproductive-justice-leaders-of-119th-congress/) - On February 6, 2025, we had the honor of welcoming some of the most dedicated Reproductive Justice (RJ) leaders to the 119th Congress during our ‘Welcome to the Hill’ event, which was attended by nearly 100 guests. This powerful gathering sparked an important conversation on how we can continue to fight for the human rights
- [In Our Own Voice Statement on the Death of Dr. Janell Green Smith, Certified Nurse-Midwife](https://blackrj.org/ioov-statement-on-the-death-of-dr-janell-green-smith-certified-nurse-midwife/) - Following the devastating death of Dr. Janell Green Smith, a Certified Nurse-Midwife, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Regina Davis Moss released the following statement:
- [In Our Own Voice is 10 years old!](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-is-10-years-old/) - On October 13, 2014, five Black women’s Reproductive Justice organizations came together to uplift the voices of Black women Reproductive Justice leaders on issues impacting the lives of Black women, girls and gender expansive people. Today, we’re proud to have grown to 12 partners including a nation-wide coalition state enhancement partners. Help us celebrate! Give
- [We Came Together. We Took Action. We Are Rising.](https://blackrj.org/we-came-together-we-took-action-we-are-rising/) - Friends, the Reproductive Justice movement is fired up. From September 19–23, In Our Own Voice hosted our largest and most energized Reproductive Justice Summit & Advocacy Day yet. For four days, Black women and gender-expansive leaders from across the country gathered in Washington, D.C., to strategize, organize, learn, and move in collective power under this
- [Building Reproductive Justice Power on Martha’s Vineyard: Centering Our Stories, Advancing Our Justice](https://blackrj.org/building-reproductive-justice-power-on-marthas-vineyard-centering-our-stories-advancing-our-justice/) - On August 5, 2025, we returned to Martha’s Vineyard for the second annual Building Reproductive Justice Power Brunch, a gathering rooted in the belief that storytelling is a form of power — and that representation is essential to justice. Martha’s Vineyard has long been a sanctuary for Black feminists to think, to plan, and to
- [Reflecting on an Inspiring Gathering: Building Reproductive Justice Power at Martha’s Vineyard](https://blackrj.org/reflecting-on-an-inspiring-gathering-building-reproductive-justice-power-at-marthas-vineyard/) - How incredible was brunch? From all of us at In Our Own Voice, thank you for joining us at Martha’s Vineyard for our 2024 Building Reproductive Justice Power Brunch. It was a truly energizing moment for our movement — one built on community, conversation, and our shared commitment to a more just future. We were
- [In Our Own Voice Statement on the Preventable Death of Tierra Walker](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-statement-on-the-preventable-death-of-tierra-walker/) - NATIONWIDE — Following ProPublica’s investigation about the devastating and preventable death of Tierra Walker as a result of Texas’ strict abortion ban, In Our Own Voice President and CEO Regina Davis Moss released the below statement: “Tierra Walker did not die—she was killed as a direct result of Texas’ near-total abortion ban. Over 90 doctors
- [In Our Own Voice Releases New Polling in 10 Key States: The Lives and Voices of Black Adults](https://blackrj.org/ioov-the-lives-and-voices-of-black-adults-2025/) - Poll surveys over 5,000 Black adults in CA, FL, GA, MI, NC, NJ, NV, OH, PA, VA Study explores how Black communities are responding to the new policy environment under a second Trump term NATIONWIDE — Today, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda released new polling on the views, needs and
- [In Our Own Voice Responds to SCOTUS Decision to Block Planned Parenthood from Receiving Medicaid Funding](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-responds-to-scotus-decision-to-block-planned-parenthood-from-receiving-medicaid-funding/) - In response to today’s Supreme Court’s ruling on Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, In Our Own Voice President and CEO Dr. Regina Davis Moss issued the following statement:
- [In Our Own Voice Responds to Trump’s 2026 Budget Proposal](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-responds-to-trumps-2026-budget-proposal/) - The proposed budget will eliminate critical federal safety net programs, slash funding for health agencies.
- [In Our Own Voice Responds to the Trump Administration’s Latest Attacks on Abortion](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-responds-to-the-trump-administrations-latest-attacks-on-abortion/) - NATIONWIDE — In response to the Trump administration dismissing the Idaho emergency abortion lawsuit and backing South Carolina’s case to block Medicaid funding for medical services at Planned Parenthood, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice and In Our Own Voice Action Fund, released the below statement: “The Trump administration
- [In Our Own Voice Responds to President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-responds-to-president-trumps-joint-address-to-congress/) - NATIONWIDE — In response to President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda and In Our Own Voice Action Fund issued the following statement: “Yesterday evening, President Trump addressed the nation to brag about the chaos and cruelty that
- [In Our Own Voice Responds to Confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to Department of Health and Human Services](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-responds-to-confirmation-of-robert-f-kennedy-jr/) - NATIONWIDE — In response to the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to the Department of Health and Human Services, In Our Own Voice President and CEO Regina Davis Moss released the below statement: “The Senate’s confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HSS) is deeply troubling for the
- [Celebrating a Year of Growth and Impact!](https://blackrj.org/ngli-celebrating-a-year-of-growth-and-impact/) - Check Out the 2024 Annual Next Generation Leadership Institute Report As we usher in the new year, the Programs and Training Department at In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda is thrilled to celebrate the transformative work of the Next Generation Leadership Institute. What a year 2024 has been! Through dedication, innovation,
- [In Our Own Voice Statement on the Passing of Former Planned Parenthood Federation of America President Cecile Richards](https://blackrj.org/cecile-richards-statement/) - “We are deeply saddened by the devastating loss of Cecile Richards. As former President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Planned Parenthood Action Fund. Cecile was a monumental force in the fight for reproductive health and rights. Her strength and tenacity throughout her decades-long career was guided by her unwavering commitment to reproductive health
- [Black women celebrate historic Biden-Harris inauguration](https://blackrj.org/black-women-celebrate-historic-biden-harris-inauguration/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — In response to the inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement: “Congratulations to Joe Biden and Kamala
- [In Our Own Voice Honors Rep. Barbara Lee with the Inaugural Reproductive Justice Champion Award](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-honors-rep-barbara-lee-with-the-inaugural-reproductive-justice-champion-award/) - After 26 years of service to Black women, girls, gender-expensive people and the Reproductive Justice movement at large, it was an honor to celebrate U.S. Congresswoman Barbara Lee and give her, HER flowers. From pulling every lever within the halls of Congress to defend the human right to make our own health care decisions, to
- [In Our Own Voice Statement on the 2024 Election Results](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-statement-on-the-2024-election-results/) - NATIONWIDE — In response to last night’s election results, In Our Own Voice President and CEO Regina Davis Moss issued the below statement: “Make no mistake, last night’s election results are nothing short of deeply frightening for everyone who values our democracy, our fundamental human rights, and the future of our country. We know that
- [Court Rulings for Texas, Georgia Issue a Rocky Blow for Abortion Care](https://blackrj.org/court-rulings-for-texas-georgia-issue-a-rocky-blow-for-abortion-care/) - NATIONWIDE — Today, one week after a lower court struck down Georgia’s six-week abortion ban, the state’s Supreme Court has reinstated it. Also today, the Supreme Court upheld an order that allows the state of Texas to continue barring emergency abortion care – blocking federal enforcement of the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA).
- [Judge Strikes Down Georgia Abortion Ban - Statement from In Our Own Voice](https://blackrj.org/judge-strikes-down-georgia-abortion-ban-statement-from-in-our-own-voice/) - NATIONWIDE — Today, a Fulton County, GA Superior Court Judge issued a ruling saying the state can no longer enforce its 6-week abortion ban. In response, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “This ruling is a significant development for Reproductive Justice–and especially for Black people
- [In Our Own Voice Statement on the Preventable Death of Candi Miller](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-statement-on-the-preventable-death-of-candi-miller/) - Following the news of Amber Nicole Thurman, today ProPublica reported on the death of Candi Miller, a second Black woman who was also killed as a result of Georgia’s six-week abortion ban. In response, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement...
- [In Our Own Voice Statement on the Preventable Death of Amber Nicole Thurman](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-statement-on-the-preventable-death-of-amber-nicole-thurman/) - Following ProPublica’s investigation about the devastating and preventable death of Amber Nicole Thurman as a result of Georgia’s six-week abortion ban, In Our Own Voice President and CEO Regina Davis Moss released the below statement...
- [She’s Shaking the Table: Liberation through Pride and the Next Generation Leadership Institute](https://blackrj.org/shes-shaking-the-table/) - As we close out Pride Month and reflect on the second anniversary of the Dobbs Supreme Court decision, it's vital to revisit the intricate connections between Black queer history and Reproductive Justice. The tapestry of Reproductive Justice is richly interwoven with the legacies of Black queer women and gender-expansive people who have long demanded justice
- [Supreme Court’s Non-Decision on Emergency Abortion Care Means More Uncertainty for Pregnant Patients](https://blackrj.org/supreme-courts-non-decision-on-emergency-abortion-care-means-more-uncertainty-for-pregnant-patients/) - Today, the Supreme Court decided to dismiss Idaho and Moyle, et al. v. United States, allowing federal emergency abortion care protections to supersede Idaho’s abortion ban while the case proceeds in lower courts. In response, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “Black women are almost
- [Decisions About Emergency Care Should Not Be in the Hands of Judges](https://blackrj.org/decisions-about-emergency-care-should-not-be-in-the-hands-of-judges/) - Today, a leaked Supreme Court document indicated that the Court is likely to dismiss Idaho and Moyle, et al. v. United States and allow abortions in medical emergencies to proceed in Idaho. In response, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “While this leak is not
- [Two Years After Roe’s Collapse, Black Americans Still Need More Than Making It Law](https://blackrj.org/two-years-after-roes-collapse-black-americans-still-need-more-than-making-it-law/) - Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement marking the second anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which overturned Roe v. Wade and eliminated the federal right to abortion: “Barriers to accessing abortion care for Black women, girls and
- [Carrying on the Legacy: What RJ Advocates Can Do This Juneteenth](https://blackrj.org/carrying-on-the-legacy-what-rj-advocates-can-do-this-juneteenth/) - On June 19th, the United States will formally acknowledge Juneteenth for only the fourth time. Juneteenth celebrates the day enslaved people in Texas were officially given their freedom in 1865 – two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. I think there is a lot we can learn about hope and resistance from the more
- [Protecting IVF is Essential for Black Communities](https://blackrj.org/protecting-ivf-is-essential-for-black-communities/) - Today, the Senate failed to pass the Right to IVF Act. In response, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “Reproductive Justice is about having the freedom to choose if, when, and how to start a family, and when access to IVF is threatened, we’re not
- [Supreme Court Decides to Throw Out Legal Challenge to Mifepristone](https://blackrj.org/supreme-court-decides-to-throw-out-legal-challenge-to-mifepristone/) - Today, the Supreme Court decided to throw out the challenge to the abortion pill mifepristone...
- [Unleashing Tomorrow's Leaders! The Next Generation Leadership Institute Fellowship](https://blackrj.org/unleashing-tomorrows-leaders-apply-now-the-next-generation-leadership-institute-fellowship-application-is-live/) - UPDATED JUNE 2024: The Next Generation Leadership Institute application period for 2024 has now closed. Get ready to mark your calendars because the Next Generation Leadership Institute Fellowship application is now live, and you do not want to miss this once in a lifetime fellowship experience! Picture this: a fellowship designed specifically for students from
- [Springing Forward: Celebrating the Next Generation Leadership Institute's Graduation Retreat](https://blackrj.org/springing-forward-celebrating-the-next-generation-leadership-institutes-graduation-retreat/) - As the flowers bloom and the air fills with the promise of new beginnings, there’s no better time to celebrate the achievements of the 2024 Next Generation Leadership Institute (NGLI; Next Gen) fellows. Serving across seven Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) nationwide, these fellows are a beacon of hope, proving that there is promise
- [Living a Reproductive Justice Life](https://blackrj.org/living-a-reproductive-justice-life/) - SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 Marcela Howell, Founder and President/CEO In Our Own Voice For the past five years I have been convening eight Black women’s Reproductive Justice (RJ) organizations and activists to develop strategize focus on policy shift, leadership development, and movement building. Our overall goal in this work is to lift up the voices of
- [Black women gear up for a year of Reproductive Justice strategies to promote Black women’s health and well-being](https://blackrj.org/black-women-gear-up-for-a-year-of-reproductive-justice-strategies-to-promote-black-womens-health-and-well-being/) - National ‘Living a Reproductive Justice Life’ campaign provides platform for Black women to share their lived experiences WASHINGTON — This International Women’s Day, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda is encouraging Black women to share how they are “Living a RJ Life.” In Our Own Voice President and CEO Marcela Howell
- [Join us in Living A RJ Life](https://blackrj.org/join-us-in-living-a-rj-life/) - In a world where Reproductive Justice is the standard, all women and girls have the complete economic, social, political power and resources to make healthy decisions about our bodies, families, and communities. When we step into the world “living a Reproductive Justice life,” the resources we need are abundant — resources like accessible health care, quality
- [State Abortion Bans Threaten Nearly Seven Million Black Women](https://blackrj.org/state-abortion-bans-threaten-nearly-seven-million-black-women/) - Bans compound threats to Black women including the Black maternal health crisis and barriers to economic stability Read the Report (PDF) WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the National Partnership for Women & Families (NPWF) and In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda released a new analysis on the threats that nearly 7 million
- [Florida Abortion Ban Will Be Devastating for Black Women in the South](https://blackrj.org/florida-abortion-ban-will-be-devastating-for-black-women-in-the-south/) - On Wednesday Florida’s six-week abortion ban takes effect, cutting off a major hub for abortion access in the South. In response, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “Florida has been a major destination for people traveling out of state for abortion care. Forcing people to
- [Pregnancy Workers Fairness Act Marks Step Toward Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/pregnancy-workers-fairness-act-marks-step-toward-reproductive-justice/) - This week the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced new rules allowing workers to seek accommodations under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act for abortion care and other pregnancy-related conditions including stillbirth, miscarriage and infertility treatments. In response, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “The Equal Employment
- [The Impact on Alabama's Supreme Court "Fetal Personhood" Decision on Black Women](https://blackrj.org/the-impact-on-alabamas-supreme-court-fetal-personhood-decision-on-black-women/) - In response to the latest developments out of Alabama following the state’s Supreme Court ruling that an embryo is considered a person, Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “The Alabama Supreme Court’s ruling sets a harrowing precedent that is already threatening access to in-vitro fertilization (IVF)
- [Empowering Change: Advocacy Across States for Black Maternal Health](https://blackrj.org/empowering-change-advocacy-across-states-for-black-maternal-health/) - During Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW) (April 11th - April 17th), we take a moment to reflect on the progress achieved and the continued journey ahead. The Black Mamas Matter Alliance established BMHW to amplify the voices and experiences of Black birthing individuals and their families. This year's theme, "Our Bodies STILL Belong to Us:
- [New Election Poll: The Lives and Voices of Black Families in 2024](https://blackrj.org/new-election-poll-the-lives-and-voices-of-black-families-in-2024/) - Economic issues, reproductive freedom top voter concerns in new In Our Own Voice: Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda poll WASHINGTON, DC (March 19, 2024) – Today, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, released new polling data on the motivations, voting intentions and top issue areas of Black voters, with a specific
- [In Our Own Voice Launches 2024 “I Am A Reproductive Justice Voter” Campaign](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-launches-2024-i-am-a-reproductive-justice-voter-campaign/) - Initiative is designed to bring more Black voters to the polls during pivotal election year Today, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda and state partner organizations launched the 2024 I Am A Reproductive Justice Voter campaign. Throughout the 2024 election cycle, this initiative will engage Black voters in 12 states and
- [State of the Union: Restoring Roe v. Wade is Not Enough](https://blackrj.org/state-of-the-union-restoring-roe-v-wade-is-not-enough/) - In response to President Biden’s State of the Union address, Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “Last night, President Biden reaffirmed his commitment to protecting our democracy and restoring Roe v. Wade protections for abortion access. We’re grateful that he drew attention to barriers to civic
- [Over-the-counter birth control is a welcome step toward contraceptive equity, but barriers remain](https://blackrj.org/over-the-counter-birth-control-is-a-welcome-step-toward-contraceptive-equity-but-barriers-remain/) - In response to the announcement that the oral contraceptive Opill will be available over the counter this month, Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “For the first time, Americans will be able to access birth control without a prescription, expanding access for people who cannot easily
- [Letter to President Biden: Uplift Reproductive Justice to Strengthen the State of Our Union](https://blackrj.org/letter-to-president-biden-uplift-reproductive-justice-to-strengthen-the-state-of-our-union/) - January 31, 2024 President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President, As you prepare to address a Joint Session of Congress on March 7, we write to urge you to emphasize, prioritize, and amplify policy issues related to Reproductive Justice—an issue that is more critical
- [From Legacy to Liberation: Reproductive Justice in Black History Month](https://blackrj.org/from-legacy-to-liberation-reproductive-justice-in-black-history-month/) - During Black History Month, we reflect on the legacy of Reproductive Justice, a testament to the perseverance and resistance of Black women throughout history. The emergence of the Reproductive Justice movement was a critique of the narrow framing of the reproductive rights movement, particularly the absence of Black women's experiences. As evidenced in the Combahee
- [In Our Own Voice Debuts Traveling Black RJ "Herstory" Exhibit at Power Rising 2024](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-debuts-traveling-black-rj-herstory-exhibit-at-power-rising-2024/) - It’s our 10th anniversary and we’ll celebrate all year by continuing to amplify and uplift Black women at the national, regional and state levels. This is an important year and we are all about building a movement and showing the power of our voice. So, what better way to kick it off then with a
- [READ: Why do we need Black candidates running for office?](https://blackrj.org/read-why-do-we-need-black-candidates-running-for-office/) - On this National Run for Office Day, the team at In Our Own Voice shares their perspectives on the profound impact of having individuals who mirror our identities and champion our values step into the realm of political leadership: Donna Morris, Senior Administrative Director: It means this is someone who shares similar family history and
- [Roe was the Floor](https://blackrj.org/roe-was-the-floor/) - “Nobody’s free until everybody’s free.” As we mark the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, Fannie Lou Hamer’s words remain relevant in our fight for Reproductive Justice. As we acknowledge the second Roe anniversary post the Dobbs decision, over a dozen states have effectively banned abortion care and several others have severely limited access. It
- [No Indictment for Brittany Watts: Case Still Shows Clear Danger of Abortion Bans and Harm to Black Women](https://blackrj.org/no-indictment-for-brittany-watts-case-still-shows-clear-danger-of-abortion-bans-and-harm-to-black-women/) - An Ohio grand jury has decided NOT to indict Brittany Watts - a Black woman who miscarried a non-viable fetus at home after care was twice delayed because of the state’s current abortion law. In response, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, In Our Own Voice President and CEO, released the following statement: “We’re relieved to learn
- [In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda on Supreme Court Agreeing to Hear Mifepristone Case](https://blackrj.org/supreme-court-agreeing-to-hear-mifepristone-case/) - Today, the Supreme Court decided that they will hear Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. Food and Drug Administration, which will determine access to the essential abortion pill mifepristone. In response, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, In Our Own Voice President and CEO, released the following statement: “The Supreme Court’s decision to hear this critical case puts
- [In Our Own Voice Celebrates Right To Make Reproductive Decision Victories in 2023 Elections](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-celebrates-right-to-make-reproductive-decision-victories-in-2023-elections/) - In response to yesterday’s election victories for reproductive autonomy in Ohio, Virginia and around the country, Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “It’s clearer than ever: Abortion is a winning issue at the ballot box. Tuesday’s election results mean that protections for not just abortion access,
- [New Book From In Our Own Voice President & CEO Develops Roadmap For Supporting Black Women’s Health and Well-Being](https://blackrj.org/new-book-from-in-our-own-voice-president-ceo-develops-roadmap-for-supporting-black-womens-health-and-well-being/) - Today APHA Press announced the release of Black Women’s Reproductive Health and Sexuality: A Holistic Public Health Approach from In Our Own Voice President and CEO Regina Davis Moss, PhD, MPH. The book brings together the intersectional perspectives of researchers, health providers, community leaders and other advocates engaged with Black women’s reproductive and sexual health
- [Getting in Formation at Our National Policy Summit!](https://blackrj.org/getting-in-formation-at-our-national-policy-summit/) - From September 22-26, the In Our Own Voice team hosted movement partners and friends for our 2023 National Policy Summit, Reimagining Policy in Pursuit of Black Reproductive Justice in Washington, D.C.
- [In Our Own Voice Mourns Dianne Feinstein, Longest Serving Women in U.S. Senate, and Congratulates Laphonza Butler on Historic Appointment](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-mourns-dianne-feinstein-longest-serving-women-in-u-s-senate-and-congratulates-laphonza-butler-on-historic-appointment/) - In response to Dianne Feinstein’s death and Laphonza Butler’s swearing in as her successor, Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “As we mourn the loss of Senator Dianne Feinstein, a force who fought for so many core issues within Reproductive Justice– abortion access, creating communities free
- [In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Applauds the Reintroduction of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act](https://blackrj.org/applauding-the-reintroduction-of-the-john-r-lewis-voting-rights-advancement-act/) - In response to the re-introduction of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act in the U.S. House of Representatives today, Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released the following statement: “Voting is a fundamental right essential for securing Reproductive Justice and protecting all the rights and liberties which make
- [Black Women Make their Voices Heard at the March on Washington](https://blackrj.org/black-women-make-their-voices-heard-at-the-march-on-washington/) - August 28, 2023, marked 60 years since the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda staff and partners marched in solidarity with thousands from across the country and President & CEO Regina Davis Moss was honored to be one of the unprecedented number of
- [In Our Own Voice Joins Activists at the Women’s March in Washington, DC](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-joins-activists-at-the-womens-march-in-washington-dc/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda hit the streets. June 24th marked one year since the Dobbs decision and since then, more people have been forced to carry unintended or unviable pregnancies to term, and denied access to potentially life-saving reproductive healthcare. This is, and will always be, more than a
- [Showing Up and Speaking Out at ESSENCE Fest](https://blackrj.org/showing-up-and-speaking-out-at-essence-fest/) - During ESSENCE Fest in New Orleans, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda hosted an “I am a Reproductive Justice Voter” activation in the community corner and the response was overwhelming. Thousands of visitors came through and we spoke to them about the importance of Reproductive Justice and the power of centering
- [Statement on the Supreme Court Decision on Student Loan Plan and LGBTQIA+ Protections](https://blackrj.org/statement-on-the-supreme-court-decision-on-student-loan-plan-and-lgbtqia-protections/) - Statement from Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President & CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda on the Supreme Court Decision on Student Loan Plan and LGBTQIA+ Protections In response to major rulings from the Supreme Court this week, Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice, released
- [Devastating Supreme Court Ruling Strikes Down College Affirmative Action Programs](https://blackrj.org/devastating-supreme-court-ruling-strikes-down-college-affirmative-action-programs/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Today marks an unsurprising yet grim day for our country’s so-called commitment to equal access to education, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as the Supreme Court of the United States has ruled to severely limit the consideration of race in college admissions decisions. This
- [In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda, 59 Partners Release 2023 Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-national-black-womens-reproductive-justice-agenda-59-partners-release-2023-black-reproductive-justice-policy-agenda/) - In this current moment of health, socio-economic, and political crisis, the Agenda offers a comprehensive guide for policymakers on centering and improving outcomes for Black women, girls, and gender-expansive people. Washington, D.C.—Today, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda released its 2023 Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda. A collaboration between Interfaith Voices
- [A Spotlight on State Leadership: Reproductive Justice State Enhancement Initiative](https://blackrj.org/a-spotlight-on-state-leadership-reproductive-justice-state-enhancement-initiative/) - In 2022, In Our Own Voice launched the Reproductive Justice State Enhancement Initiative, a state-national collaboration with four emerging Reproductive Justice (RJ) organizations. Through funding, training and leadership development, this program prioritizes enhancing the capacity and strategic impact of Black-founded, Black-led state-based RJ groups by focusing on the core areas of organizational development and building
- [In Our Own Voice Announces Regina Davis Moss as New President ](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-announces-regina-davis-moss-as-new-president/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 14, 2023 Press contact: BerlinRosen, inourownvoice@berlinrosen.com In Our Own Voice Announces Regina Davis Moss as New President With an extensive background in public health and advocacy, Moss will helm the organization’s work to advance reproductive justice through a set of policy priorities and collaboration with its eight strategic partners. Washington, D.C.
- [Statement from Regina Davis Moss, In Our Own Voice’s New President and CEO](https://blackrj.org/statement-from-regina-davis-moss-in-our-own-voices-new-president-and-ceo/) - In reflection of Black Maternal Health Week, Regina Davis Moss, In Our Own Voice’s New President and CEO, released the following statement: “This Black Maternal Health Week arrives amid a troubling landscape for Black women, femmes, and gender expansive people. The data is clear: as the CDC reported last month, our country hit a new
- [Black women applaud historic election of Jeffries to lead House Democrats](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-historic-election-of-jeffries-to-lead-house-democrats/) - First Black person to lead a major political party WASHINGTON — Today, Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives elected Rep. Hakeem Jeffries as their leader. Jeffries is the first Black person to hold the top leadership role in a major political party. In Our Own Voice: National Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO
- [Black women call on Biden administration to step up efforts to free Brittney Griner](https://blackrj.org/black-women-call-on-biden-administration-to-step-up-efforts-to-free-brittney-griner/) - Last week, WNBA star Brittney Griner’s attorneys announced that she is being moved to a Russian penal colony. Griner, who was convicted for possession of cannabis oil, reportedly will face inhumane conditions and forced labor. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement in
- [Black women lead the charge to Reproductive Justice victories on Election Day](https://blackrj.org/black-women-lead-the-charge-to-reproductive-justice-victories-on-election-day/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Once again, Black women voters turned out in large numbers on Election Day, voting in support of Reproductive Justice and candidates who support legal abortion. Marcela Howell, founder, and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued
- [New national polling data show Black women voters motivated by Dobbs decision to vote for Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/new-national-polling-data-show-black-women-voters-motivated-by-dobbs-decision-to-vote-for-reproductive-justice/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda releases post-Dobbs poll showing Black women plan to vote to save their rights WASHINGTON — Today, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda released new data from a poll of Black women. The survey was conducted by Perry Undem in September in
- [A Celebration of Black Joy: Marcela Howell Receives Lifetime Achievement Award](https://blackrj.org/a-celebration-of-black-joy/) - “Is faith asleep, is it? Let’s wake it because today, this day is ours, let’s take it.” – poem written by Beah Richards and read by actor Lynn Whitfield Dozens of Black women gathered to do just that, ‘take the day’ on Sat., Oct. 1 at the Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Planned Parenthood
- [Protecting Black Mamas Through Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/protecting-black-mamas-through-reproductive-justice/) - Hundreds of Black mamas and those who care about Black mamas found community at this year’s Black Maternal Health Conference and Training Institute hosted by The Black Mamas Matter Alliance earlier this month in Washington, D.C. Conference organizers say the event meets a national need for a forum dedicated to Black Maternal Health and Black
- [Black women demand justice for Pieper Lewis](https://blackrj.org/black-women-demand-justice-for-pieper-lewis/) - WASHINGTON — Yesterday, Polk County (Iowa) District Judge David Porter sentenced Pieper Lewis, a human trafficking and rape survivor, to closely supervised probation and ordered her to pay $150,000 in restitution to the rapist’s family. Lewis, a 17-year-old Black teen, was 15 when she killed the rapist. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive
- [Black women leaders denounce federal abortion ban, call for Reproductive Justice supporters to register and vote](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-denounce-federal-abortion-ban-call-for-reproductive-justice-supporters-to-register-and-vote/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Sen. Lindsay Graham introduced a 15-week abortion ban. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement in response: “Sen. Graham’s federal abortion ban
- [Black women’s Equal Pay Day underscores the widening wage gap](https://blackrj.org/black-womens-equal-pay-day-underscores-the-widening-wage-gap/) - WASHINGTON — While Equal Pay Day 2022 came more than a week earlier than last year, suggesting that women might be making gains, that suggestion is false. The wage gap for women of color has actually widened. Black women will need to work until September 21 to catch up to white men. Last year, Black
- [The New Dangers Surrounding Period-Tracking Apps](https://blackrj.org/the-new-dangers-surrounding-period-tracking-apps/) - Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade, cycle/period-tracking apps have left nearly one in three menstruators vulnerable to attacks on their privacy. What once was an easy way to map fertility, manage premenstrual symptoms and plan contraception use has now become an opportunity to prosecute birthing people who seek or have abortions. As beneficial, and
- [Building a Bolder and Brighter RJ Future](https://blackrj.org/building-a-bolder-and-brighter-rj-future/) - For the average college student, a weekend in the nation's capital may include exploring the incredible brunch scene or sightseeing the historical landmarks across the city, but for the 12 students entering the Next Generation Leadership Institute, they spent their time in Washington, D.C. enhancing their leadership skills and learning more about building power through
- [Reproductive Justice is on the line in Kansas](https://blackrj.org/reproductive-justice-is-on-the-line-in-kansas/) - Statement from Marcela Howell, president and CEO, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, Kansans are going to the polls to protect their communities and abortion access in their state by voting “no” on an amendment that would explicitly exclude the right to abortion from the state’s constitution. Marcela
- [Black women applaud executive order, pledge to vote for Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-executive-order-pledge-to-vote-for-reproductive-justice/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, President Biden issued an executive order to protect reproductive rights in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in
- [The HEAL for Immigrant Families Act is critical to protecting the health of Black immigrants](https://blackrj.org/the-heal-for-immigrant-families-act-is-critical-to-protecting-the-health-of-black-immigrants/) - Today, with endorsement from over 250 organizations, Representatives Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) and Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-CA) have reintroduced the Health Equity and Access under Law (HEAL) for Immigrant Families Act to support access to health care for immigrant communities. The legislation would restore enrollment to full-benefit Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to
- [Black Women Connect the Dots Between Domestic Violence and Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/black-women-connect-the-dots-between-domestic-violence-and-reproductive-justice/) - During the month of October, we have been talking about domestic violence (DV) and intimate partner violence (IPV) as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Earlier this month In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda partnered with several other Reproductive Justice organizations for our 2019 Domestic and Intimate Partner Violence Week of
- [The Color of Water: Clean Water Access and Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/the-color-of-water-clean-water-access-and-reproductive-justice/) - I had the pleasure of working on Clean Water and Reproductive Justice: Lack of Access to Clean Water Harms Women of Color, a collaborative report, and webinar between In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF), National Partnership for Women and Families, and the Sierra Club.
- [Black women denounce wholesale attack on human and civil rights](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-wholesale-attack-on-human-and-civil-rights/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision in Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued this statement in response: “As
- [Marcela's Voice: May's Letter from the CEO](https://blackrj.org/marcelas-voice-mays-letter-from-the-ceo/) - Like many of you, I too am still grappling with the news of the leaked Supreme Court opinion. Let’s be clear, as of today, Roe v. Wade is still the law of the land. Abortion is legal in the United States. The Supreme Court has not yet made a ruling and until they do, they
- [Juneteenth: The struggle for Black emancipation continues](https://blackrj.org/juneteenth-the-struggle-for-black-emancipation-continues/) - Two-and-a-half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, Union troops finally made their way to Texas to end slavery in the last state still enslaving Black people. That was on June 19, 1865, Freedom Day or Juneteenth. This year, we commemorate Juneteenth, a national holiday, against the backdrop of ongoing attacks on Black voting rights and the
- [Setting the Record Straight: Abortion is Still Legal](https://blackrj.org/setting-the-record-straight-abortion-is-still-legal/) - The Fight against misinformation about the legality of abortion in certain states continues. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda is supporting some of our partner organizations with a billboard campaign that sets the record straight. Billboards reading: “Abortion is Still Legal” are up in Louisiana, Georgia, Texas, Tennessee, California, Pennsylvania, and
- [Black women respond to leaked Alito draft decision, call on Congress to protect reproductive health and rights](https://blackrj.org/black-women-respond-to-leaked-alito-draft-decision-call-on-congress-to-protect-reproductive-health-and-rights/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, Politico is reporting that the U.S. Supreme Court will overturn Roe and Casey, eliminating the constitutional guarantee to legal abortion. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement
- [Marcela's Voice: A Letter from the CEO](https://blackrj.org/marcelas-voice-april/) - Happy April! We celebrated Black Maternal Health week (April 12-17) by lifting up Black mothers and calling on public officials to address Black maternal health disparities. We kicked off the week by partnering with Radio One on a virtual panel discussion titled “Ensuring Black Mental Health and Wellness.”. I was honored to join Black Mamas
- [Reproductive Justice Movement Supports Leaders on College Campuses](https://blackrj.org/reproductive-justice-movement-supports-leaders-on-college-campuses/) - College campuses are fertile ground for the Reproductive Justice movement(RJ), a movement firmly rooted in Black feminist theory, advocating for the complete economic, social and political power and resources to make decisions about our bodies, families and communities. From LGBTQIA+ rights on campus, to Title IX protections, to mental health resources, college students are constantly
- [Welcome Nourbese Flint](https://blackrj.org/welcome-nourbese-flint/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda’s senior director of administration Donna Morris (far right) joins other Black women as they warmly welcome Nourbese Flint to the east coast RJ community. Nourbese, formerly with our partner organization Black Women for Wellness, leaves Los Angeles to serve as the Senior Director of Black
- [Black women celebrate Black mothers, demand Congress take action to support Black maternal health](https://blackrj.org/black-women-celebrate-black-mothers-demand-congress-take-action-to-support-black-maternal-health/) - Black Maternal Health Week: “We lift up Black mothers and call on public officials to address Black maternal health disparities” WASHINGTON — Today, is the kick-off of Black Maternal Health Week (April 11-17, 2022), when advocates raise awareness of Black maternal health disparities in the U.S. Black women and birthing people have unacceptably poor health
- [In Our Own Voice celebrates first Black woman U.S. Supreme Court justice](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-celebrates-first-black-u-s-supreme-court-justice/) - ‘Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson will champion human and civil rights.’ WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Senate confirmed Ketanji Brown Jackson’s nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court. With bipartisan support, she will be the first Black woman to serve on the high court. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO
- [Black women demand immediate confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson](https://blackrj.org/black-women-demand-immediate-confirmation-of-judge-ketanji-brown-jackson/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — The Senate Judiciary Committee is set to vote on the confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson on Monday, April 4, 2022. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement in
- [Black women demand that Russia release WNBA star](https://blackrj.org/black-women-demand-that-russia-release-wnba-star/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, news sources report that a Russian court extended WNBA start Brittney Griner’s detention until May 19, 2022. Griner is being held on charges that she was in possession of hash oil. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice
- [In Our Own Voice congratulates 195 years of Black press in the USA](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-congratulates-195-years-of-black-press-usa/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today marks the 195th anniversary of Black press in the United States. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda released the following statement in response: “We congratulate Black Press USA and all Black news media on 195 years
- [This Equal Pay Day, the wage gap widens for Black women](https://blackrj.org/this-equal-pay-day-the-wage-gap-widens-for-black-women/) - WASHINGTON — Equal Pay Day marks the date that women must work into the next year to be paid what men were paid in the previous year. While Equal Pay Day comes more than a week earlier than last year, suggesting that women might be making gains, the wage gap actually has widened for women
- [Black women condemn FY22 federal spending bill, demand funding for abortion](https://blackrj.org/black-women-condemn-fy22-federal-spending-bill-demand-funding-for-abortion/) - WASHINGTON — Congress finally passed the Fiscal Year 2022 spending bill that includes the Hyde Amendment, preventing federal funding of abortion. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement in response: “Once again, Congress is willing to sacrifice the reproductive health and rights of
- [Black Women applaud Biden-Harris administration’s leadership on civil and human rights, demand Congress defend the Constitution](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-biden-harris-administrations-leadership-on-civil-and-human-rights-demand-congress-defend-the-constitution/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, President Biden delivered the State of the Union address. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement: “We were overjoyed on January 20, 2021,
- [In Our Own Voice leadership applauds historic nomination](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-leadership-applauds-historic-nomination/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Reportedly, President Joe Biden will nominate Ketanji Brown Jackson as his nominee to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. She is the first Black woman nominated to serve on the high court. In Our Own Voice: National Reproductive Justice Agenda President
- [Black women denounce judicial attacks on Black voters](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-judicial-attacks-on-black-voters/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — This month, two court actions have enraged Black voters: 1) the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn a lower court’s ruling that an Alabama congressional map disadvantages Black voters; and 2) the sentencing of a Black woman, Pamela Moses, to six
- [Black women denounce U.S. Supreme Court’s attack on voting rights](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-u-s-supreme-courts-attack-on-voting-rights/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Yesterday, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned a lower court’s ruling that an Alabama congressional map disadvantages Black voters. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in response: “We
- [Black women denounce racist Senate](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-racist-senate/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — This week, the U.S. Senate failed to pass voting rights legislation due to Senate rules that allow the minority to block bills. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following
- [Black women: 'There cannot be celebration without legislation!'](https://blackrj.org/black-women-there-cannot-be-celebration-without-legislation/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, the nation honors the work and legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement: “On a day meant
- [Black women applaud president’s demands in support of voting rights](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-presidents-demands-in-support-of-voting-rights/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Yesterday, President Biden pounded the podium as he demanded that the U.S. Senate take immediate action to protect voting rights. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in
- [Black women speak out about Arbery’s murderers](https://blackrj.org/black-women-speak-out-about-arberys-murderers/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President & CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, the three men who hunted and gunned down Ahmaud Arbery were sentenced to life in prison. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement
- [Black women celebrate bell hooks](https://blackrj.org/black-women-celebrate-bell-hooks/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — On December 15, bell hooks died in her Kentucky home. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement: “We send our deepest condolences to all
- [Black women celebrate Desmond Tutu](https://blackrj.org/black-women-celebrate-desmond-tutu/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Yesterday, Desmond Tutu died, in Cape Town, South Africa. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement: “While we mourn the passing of civil and
- [Black women denounce high court decision on Texas abortion law, call on Congress to take action](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-high-court-decision-on-texas-abortion-law-call-on-congress-to-take-action/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision on the Texas abortion ban. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement: “Today’s decision is another blow to Black women’s
- [Black women leaders demand Reproductive Justice at U.S. Supreme Court Rally](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-demand-reproductive-justice-at-u-s-supreme-court-rally/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Vice President of Communications Racine Tucker-Hamilton WASHINGTON — As the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, a case that may change the constitutional guarantee to legal abortion, Black women rallied outside to demand Reproductive Justice. Vice President
- [Elevating the Voices of Black Women through Storytelling](https://blackrj.org/elevating-the-voices-of-black-women-through-storytelling/) - Black women's stories are often left untold, buried under the systemic misogyny and racism Black women face every day. The silencing of our voices has a detrimental impact on our health and overall wellbeing. The Next Generation Leadership Institute is shifting the narrative by equipping students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) with the necessary tools to amplify their voices and center our
- [Black women on Build Back Better: Now is the time for Congress to act in support of Black women and communities](https://blackrj.org/black-women-on-build-back-better-now-is-the-time-for-congress-to-act-in-support-of-black-women-and-communities/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President & CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Yesterday, President Biden announced his revised Build Back Better plan. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement in response: “Black women, femmes, girls and
- [Black women applaud new White House strategy on gender equity and equality](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-new-white-house-strategy-on-gender-equity-and-equality/) - WASHINGTON — In response to the Biden-Harris administration’s release of the new “National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality,” In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement: “We commend President Biden and Vice President Harris for introducing a comprehensive new strategy for gender equity
- [Meet the HBCU Students Fighting for Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/meet-the-hbcu-students-fighting-for-reproductive-justice/) - During In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda’s Reproductive Justice Week of Action (RJWOA) earlier this month, four Next Generation Leadership Institute fellows participated in an Instagram Live panel to share how they are fighting for Reproductive Justice on their campuses and beyond. Learn more about their experience and watch the Live panel below. Asia Brown, Spelman University I had the immense pleasure of
- [Black women leaders applaud temporary stay of Texas abortion ban, demand Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-applaud-temporary-stay-of-texas-abortion-ban-demand-reproductive-justice/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Last night, a federal judge blocked enforcement of the Texas abortion ban, in response to a lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice. The law makes abortion illegal after six weeks of pregnancy and puts a
- [Black women applaud Biden administration’s move to revoke ‘gag rule’](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-biden-administrations-move-to-revoke-gag-rule/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Yesterday, President Biden’s administration reversed the Trump administration’s “gag rule,” prohibiting health providers who receive funding under Title X to counsel their patients about abortion. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued
- [Trust the voices of Black women and protect our voting rights](https://blackrj.org/trust-the-voices-of-black-women-and-protect-our-voting-rights/) - Black women are sending a message to Congress and making sure our voices are heard loud and clear about protecting our voting rights. I was honored on Sept. 15 to stand in solidarity with some of my sisters and a few “good men” on the steps of the Supreme Court of the United States in
- [Black women praise Department of Justice lawsuit against Texas abortion law, call for more action](https://blackrj.org/black-women-praise-department-of-justice-lawsuit-against-texas-abortion-law-call-for-more-action/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, September 9, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit to block the extreme Texas abortion ban. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement: “We applaud
- [Texas’ sweeping voter suppression law is a targeted attack on Black women](https://blackrj.org/texas-sweeping-voter-suppression-law-is-a-targeted-attack-on-black-women/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed a new state law making it more difficult to vote in a state that already has restrictive voting laws. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda,
- [Black women leaders decry high court action, call for Reproductive Justice in Texas](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-decry-high-court-action-call-for-reproductive-justice-in-texas/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — The extreme Texas abortion ban took effect, following the U.S. Supreme Court’s 5-4 decision, late last night, to leave the law in place while the legal battle continues. The law effectively bans abortion after six weeks
- [Black women applaud House vote to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (HR 4)](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-house-vote-to-pass-the-john-lewis-voting-rights-advancement-act-hr-4/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — On August 24, 2021, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (HR 4). Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in response:
- [When will Black women celebrate voting equality?](https://blackrj.org/when-will-black-women-celebrate-voting-equality/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — As Women’s Equality Day (August 26, 2021) — the anniversary of women’s suffrage — approaches, Black women are still fighting as attacks on our voting rights are mounting. Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s
- [Black women leaders call for Reproductive Justice in Texas](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-call-for-reproductive-justice-in-texas/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Last night, a federal appeals court overturned a lower court’s ruling that an extreme abortion ban is unconstitutional, thereby clearing the way for the ban to take effect. The law will make the most commonly used
- [The Moment is Now: Congress Must Take Steps to Address the Black Maternal Health Crisis](https://blackrj.org/the-moment-is-now-congress-must-take-steps-to-address-the-black-maternal-health-crisis/) - Early this summer, Representative Underwood, Kelly, Adams, and Senator Booker led a letter with over 160 members of Congress, urging leadership to prioritize maternal health in any upcoming package. More than 200 cross-movement organizations, including In Our Own Voice, National Birth Equity Collaborative, Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Center for American Progress, Community Catalyst, and Center
- [Black women applaud introduction of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (HR 4)](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-introduction-of-the-john-lewis-voting-rights-advancement-act-hr-4/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (HR 4) was reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in response: “We
- [Fighting to Improve Black Maternal Health Through Advocacy and Law](https://blackrj.org/fighting-to-improve-black-maternal-health-through-advocacy-and-law/) - Thanks to the tireless work of Black women, you now know the statistics; the United States shamefully remains one of 13 countries where maternal mortality and morbidity rates are worse today than they were 25 years ago. In the United States, Black women are 3-4 times more likely to die of pregnancy-related complications than their
- [Black women praise introduction of the ‘Support Through Loss Act’](https://blackrj.org/black-women-praise-introduction-of-the-support-through-loss-act/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Rep. Ayanna Pressley and Sen. Tammy Duckworth introduced the “Support Through Loss Act” — a first-of-its-kind legislation to provide support to those who experience a pregnancy loss, unsuccessful fertility treatment and failed adoption arrangement. If passed,
- [Black women denounce latest U.S. Supreme Court attack on the Voting Rights Act](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-latest-u-s-supreme-court-attack-on-the-voting-rights-act/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision in the combined cases, Brnovich v. Democratic National Committee and Arizona Republican Party v. Democratic National Committee, further eroding the Voting Rights Act. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice:
- [Positive Periods for All Menstruators](https://blackrj.org/positive-periods-for-all-menstruators/) - Positive periods should be a reality for all menstruators, but many people across the United States battle to access the period products they need. According to the Black Women's Health Imperative, it is estimated that a quarter of all U.S. menstruators struggled to afford period products due to a lack of income in the last
- [Black women applaud Supreme Court decision upholding Affordable Care Act, condemn LGBTQ discrimination ruling](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-supreme-court-decision-upholding-affordable-care-act-condemn-lgbtq-discrimination-ruling/) - The U.S. Supreme Court dismissed the latest case challenging the Affordable Care Act. The Court also announced today its unanimous ruling in favor of an anti-LGBTQ foster care agency’s right to not comply with nondiscrimination requirements on the grounds of religious freedom. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO
- [Black women applaud Juneteenth federal holiday vote, demand action for real change beyond symbolic gesture](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-juneteenth-federal-holiday-vote-demand-action-for-real-change-beyond-symbolic-gesture/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda honors Juneteenth with new Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda WASHINGTON — This week, U.S. Senate voted unanimously to adopt a resolution to recognize Juneteenth as a federal holiday, celebrated annually on June 19th to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States and to
- [In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda releases Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-national-black-womens-reproductive-justice-agenda-releases-black-reproductive-justice-policy-agenda/) - More than 30 Black women’s organizations and advocates present proactive Reproductive Justice policy solutions WASHINGTON — Today, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, Interfaith Voices for Reproductive Justice, and SisterLove, Inc. announced the release of the Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda, an innovative, proactive policy agenda created in collaboration with more
- [The Women's Health Protection Act is a critical first step to ensuring all pregnant people have access to safe and affordable abortion care](https://blackrj.org/the-womens-health-protection-act-is-a-critical-first-step-to-ensuring-all-pregnant-people-have-access-to-safe-and-affordable-abortion-care/) - Nearly 500 laws that restrict or ban abortion have been passed since 2011. Increasingly, access to safe and affordable abortion care is dependent on where you live. Roadblocks like medically unnecessary wait times, forcing providers to deliver inaccurate counseling, and requiring ultrasounds all limit a person's ability to make an independent medical decision. These unnecessary restrictions
- [Black women applaud Biden’s first budget and his support for reproductive justice](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-bidens-first-budget-and-his-support-for-reproductive-justice/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, President Joe Biden submitted his first budget to Congress. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in response to the proposal and the president’s address: “We
- [Black women leaders applaud Clarke to DOJ](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-applaud-clarke-to-doj/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Senate voted 51-48 to confirm Kristen Clarke to serve as assistant attorney general for civil rights. She is the first Black woman to serve in the position. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of
- [Black women leaders applaud ‘American Families Plan’](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-applaud-american-families-plan/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Tonight, President Joe Biden addressed a joint session of Congress, officially announcing his “American Families Plan.” Totaling $1.8 trillion, the package will invest in childcare, paid family leave, education, and other supports for families. Marcela Howell,
- [Kristen Clarke, women of color nominees, and the hurdles they face](https://blackrj.org/kristen-clarke-women-of-color-nominees-and-the-hurdles-they-face/) - President Biden has nominated people with a diversity of professional, educational, and experiential backgrounds to serve in his cabinet and in other key agency positions. Many of these nominees are women of color, an exciting advancement and one that’s long overdue. Yet the experience many of these particular nominees are facing during their confirmation process
- [Vaccine Equity Should Be Everyone’s Priority](https://blackrj.org/vaccine-equity-should-be-everyones-priority/) - After over a year, as COVID-19 disproportionately took the lives of Black and brown people, vaccines offer a light at the end of a long, dark tunnel. But the same systemic racism that has caused health inequities for thousands of people of color now threatens to deprive these same communities of the vaccine we so
- [Consent On Campus](https://blackrj.org/consent-on-campus/) - A Reproductive Justice world is one where women can pursue higher education without the threat of sexual violence on their campus. Unfortunately, that is not a reality for many women at colleges and universities nationwide — 11.2 percent of all undergraduate and graduate students experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation.
- [Black women leaders applaud confirmation of Gupta to DOJ](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-applaud-confirmation-of-gupta-to-doj/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Senate confirmed Vanita Gupta to serve as associate attorney general, with only one Republican, Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) voting “yes.” Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s
- [Black women speak out on Chauvin verdict](https://blackrj.org/black-women-speak-out-on-chauvin-verdict/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President & CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — In response to the guilty verdict in the murder trial of Derek Chauvin, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement: “Today’s guilty verdict in
- [Black women applaud White House proclamation and event on Black maternal health but demand immediate action](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-white-house-proclamation-and-event-on-black-maternal-health-but-demand-immediate-action/) - Statement on Black Maternal Health Week by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, the White House observed Black Maternal Health Week (April 11 –17, 2021), with a proclamation by the president and a roundtable hosted by Vice President Harris and Susan Rice, head
- [Creating a world where Black moms and babies thrive](https://blackrj.org/creating-a-world-where-black-moms-and-babies-thrive/) - The COVID-19 pandemic shed light on the racial health disparities prevalent in the United States, but leaders in the Reproductive Justice space know these inequities are not new. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women are 2-3 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. We know that
- [Black women praise Rep. Alcee Hastings’ work for civil rights](https://blackrj.org/black-women-praise-rep-alcee-hastings-work-for-civil-rights/) - Statement from Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, the death of U.S. Rep. Alcee Hastings was announced. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in response: “Today, we mourn
- [Black women leaders on International Transgender Day of Visibility: ‘We see you; we stand with you; you belong!’](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-on-international-transgender-day-of-visibility-we-see-you-we-stand-with-you-you-belong/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today is International Transgender Visibility Day. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in support of trans and nonbinary people: “In Our Own
- [Black women leaders applaud diverse slate of judicial nominees](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-applaud-diverse-slate-of-judicial-nominees/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Yesterday, President Biden nominated a diverse group of appointees to fill vacancies in federal courts. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in
- [Black women applaud bill to support reproductive justice](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-bill-to-support-reproductive-justice/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, the EACH Act was introduced in both houses of Congress by Representatives Barbara Lee, Jan Schakowsky, Diana DeGette, and Ayanna Pressley and Senators Tammy Duckworth, Mazie Hirono, and Patty Murray. The bill would ensure coverage
- [Feminine Care is Self-Care: Dillard University Event](https://blackrj.org/feminine-care-is-self-care-dillard-university-event/) - On March 9th and 10th, Next Generation Leadership Institute fellows Kalaya Sibley and Amaya Ronczyk, both from Dillard University, hosted 'Feminine Care is Self-Care.' The two-day event sought to promote feminine wellness, vaginal health, and provide students with free menstrual products. Below, Kalaya shares her experience combating vaginal health stigmas and period poverty on her
- [Black women call for justice for Breonna Taylor, demand end to ongoing police violence](https://blackrj.org/black-women-call-for-justice-for-breonna-taylor-demand-end-to-ongoing-police-violence/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President & CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Breonna Taylor was killed by police on March 13, 2020, gunned down in a mistaken raid on her home. In remembrance of Breonna Taylor on the first anniversary of her death, In Our Own Voice: National
- [601 for Period Equity](https://blackrj.org/601-for-period-equity/) - In early January, Next Generation Leadership Institute Fellow (2020-2021) and Spelman College student Asia Brown launched 601 for Period Equity. Since then, the organization has donated nearly 500 care packages to women's shelters, schools, community organizations, and menstruating people in need across her home state of Mississippi. Read about Asia's experience working toward eradicating period
- [Black women leaders applaud confirmation of Shalanda Young as deputy director of OMB](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-applaud-confirmation-of-shalanda-young-as-deputy-director-of-omb/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Yesterday, the U.S. Senate voted to confirm Shalanda Young as deputy director of the Office of Management and Budget. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued
- [Wage gap compounds coronavirus burden on Black women](https://blackrj.org/wage-gap-compounds-coronavirus-burden-on-black-women-2/) - Statement on Equal Pay Day by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Tomorrow, March 24, 2021, is Equal Pay Day, a day that spotlights how far into this year women must work to be paid what men were paid last year. In Our Own
- [Black women demand an end to NCAA sex discrimination](https://blackrj.org/black-women-demand-an-end-to-ncaa-sex-discrimination/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — In response to the reports of grossly unequal facilities, amenities and services provided to the NCAA women’s teams, Marcela Howell, founder, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued
- [Black women denounce violence, stand in solidarity with Asian American communities](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-violence-stand-in-solidarity-with-asian-american-communities/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — In response to the recent shootings in the greater Atlanta area, which targeted Asian women, Marcela Howell, founder, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement:
- [Black women on COVID-19 stimulus package: A good start but much more to do!](https://blackrj.org/black-women-on-covid-19-stimulus-package-a-good-start-but-much-more-to-do/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President & CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — This week, Congress passed a $1.9 trillion stimulus package, President Biden is expected to sign tomorrow. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement in
- [Black women leaders applaud confirmation of Deb Haaland as secretary of the Department of the Interior](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-applaud-confirmation-of-deb-haaland-as-secretary-of-the-department-of-the-interior/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — On March 15, 2021, the U.S. Senate voted to confirm Rep. Deb Haaland as secretary of the Department of the Interior, making her the first Native American to hold a cabinet position. Marcela Howell, president and
- [Black women applaud new executive orders on Office of Gender Policy and Title IX](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-new-executive-orders-on-office-of-gender-policy-and-title-ix/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice President & CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, on International Women’s Day, President Biden issued two executive orders that take important steps toward greater equity and empowerment for women, femmes and girls. The first executive order establishes the White House Office of Gender Policy, the second executive order directs
- [Black women leaders applaud confirmation of Marcia Fudge as HUD secretary](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-applaud-confirmation-of-marcia-fudge-as-hud-secretary/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Senate voted to confirm Rep. Marcia Fudge as secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda,
- [Black women call for police accountability, end to qualified immunity](https://blackrj.org/black-women-call-for-police-accountability-end-to-qualified-immunity/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President & CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — This week, U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA) reintroduced the “Ending Qualified Immunity Act” to eliminate the legal loophole that prevents victims of police violence and civil rights violations from obtaining relief
- [Black women mourn the death of civil rights advocate Vernon Jordan](https://blackrj.org/black-women-mourn-the-death-of-civil-rights-advocate-vernon-jordan/) - Statement from Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, the death of civil rights advocate Vernon Jordan was announced. Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in response: “Today, we
- [Black Herstory Month](https://blackrj.org/black-herstory-month/) - Year round, our Next Generation Institute Fellows are championing Reproductive Justice, following in the footsteps of the many Black women leaders who came before them. To keep them inspired and grounded in their advocacy work, In Our Own Voice sent each of its fellows a library this past holiday season, stocked with RJ reads that
- [Biden orders special enrollment window for  the Affordable Care Act](https://blackrj.org/biden-orders-special-enrollment-window-for-the-affordable-care-act/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — The Biden-Harris administration has reopened enrollment for health coverage under the Affordable Care Act, from February 15 to May 15, 2021. However, the timeline for enrollment varies in some states, which run their own insurance exchanges. In this statement, Marcela Howell,
- [Black women demand that Congress protect maternal health](https://blackrj.org/black-women-demand-that-congress-protect-maternal-health/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON – The Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act of 2021 has been introduced by Representative Underwood, Representative Alma Adams and Senator Booker along with the Black Maternal Health Caucus to address the crisis of high maternal deaths among
- [In Our Own Voice congratulates Pete Buttigieg on historic Cabinet appointment](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-congratulates-pete-buttigieg-on-historic-cabinet-appointment/) - WASHINGTON — Pete Buttigieg was sworn in as transportation secretary, making him the first openly gay Cabinet secretary. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement: “Congratulations to Pete Buttigieg, the first openly gay man to serve as a Cabinet secretary. His appointment is
- [Black women leaders celebrate first Black president of the ACLU](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-celebrate-first-black-president-of-the-aclu/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — New York University Law Professor Deborah Archer was elected president of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). She is the first Black person to hold the office in the organization’s 101-year history. Marcela Howell, president and
- [Black women leaders call on Biden-Harris administration for broad expansion of reproductive rights](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-call-on-biden-harris-administration-for-broad-expansion-of-reproductive-rights/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder joins with more than 100 allies to demand swift action. WASHINGTON — Today, President Biden issued executive orders to expand access to reproductive health services. In a memorandum, the president rescinded the “global gag rule” which prevents groups overseas from providing the full range
- [Black women leaders call for Reproductive Justice to commemorate Roe V. Wade](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-call-for-reproductive-justice-to-commemorate-roe-v-wade-2/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today is the 48th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion. Marcela Howell issued the following statement about reproductive health and rights: “Just a few years after the high
- [Black women applaud new White House Council for Gender Policy](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-new-white-house-council-for-gender-policy/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — In response to the announcement of the new White House Council for Gender Policy, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement: “We commend President-elect
- [Being Well While Wintering](https://blackrj.org/being-well-while-wintering/) - During a season of political chaos and a global pandemic, we know it's easy to absorb the news and the energy around us...
- [Sexual and Reproductive health, rights and justice: A Collaboration](https://blackrj.org/sexual-and-reproductive-health-rights-and-justice-a-collaboration/) - The Blueprint for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice is an extensive policy agenda for the new administration to advance sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice (SRHRJ) in the United States and around the world. The Blueprint was developed by a diverse group of more than 90 SRHRJ organizations co-led by In Our
- [Black women denounce U.S. Supreme Court  medication abortion decision](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-u-s-supreme-court-medication-abortion-decision/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling that reinstates requirements that women seeking medication abortions must do so in-person, reversing a lower court, which ruled that the requirement is dangerous due to the pandemic. In Our Own
- [Black Women Cheer Warnock and Ossoff Georgia Senate Wins as Black Women-Led Victory for Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/black-women-cheer-warnock-and-ossoff-georgia-senate-wins-as-black-women-led-victory-for-reproductive-justice/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff won their run-off races and will represent Georgia in the U.S. Senate. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement:
- [Black women leaders applaud Biden’s appointments of Clarke and Gupta to DOJ](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-applaud-bidens-appointments-of-clarke-and-gupta-to-doj/) - WASHINGTON — President-elect Biden nominated Vanita Gupta to serve as associate attorney general and Kristen Clarke to serve as assistant attorney general for civil rights. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in support of these appointments: “We applaud President-elect Biden’s appointments
- [Black Women Leaders Commend Appointment of Rice to Top Domestic Policy Position](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-commend-appointment-of-rice-to-top-domestic-policy-position/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — President-elect Biden named Susan Rice to head the White House Domestic Policy Council. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in support of
- [Black women leaders praise Rep. Marcia Fudge as HUD secretary](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-praise-rep-marcia-fudge-as-hud-secretary/) - WASHINGTON — President-elect Biden nominated U.S. Rep. Marcia Fudge to serve as secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in support of Fudge’s appointment: “President-elect Biden deserves praise for appointing Rep. Marcia Fudge
- [How We Are Helping Black Women and Families with our Emergency COVID Relief Fund](https://blackrj.org/how-we-are-helping-black-women-and-families-with-our-emergency-covid-relief-fund/) - When you run a grassroots Reproductive Justice organization, it is difficult to watch neighbors in your community suffer because our government has abandoned them during a global pandemic. Our partner organizations, all small non-profits, have done their best to support strangers, seniors, and neighbors, who are in need during these trying times. While the federal
- [Black Women Leaders Congratulate Rashida Jones](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-congratulate-rashida-jones/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — MSNBC announced that Rashida Jones will take the reins as its president, next year. Jones will be the first Black woman to lead a major television news network. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive
- [Black women leaders applaud Xavier Becerra as HHS secretary](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-applaud-xavier-becerra-as-hhs-secretary/) - WASHINGTON — President-elect Biden announced that California Attorney General Xavier Becerra is his appointee to head the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in support of Becerra’s appointment: “We applaud the appointment of Xavier
- [Support Black communities during the COVID-19 pandemic this #GIVINGTUESDAY](https://blackrj.org/support-black-communities-during-the-covid-19-pandemic-this-givingtuesday/) - Be sure to include In Our Own Voice on your #GIVINGTUESDAY list. WASHINGTON — In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, a national/state partnership to lift up the voices of Black women, femmes and girls is encouraging supporters of civil and human rights to support Black women who have been impacted by
- [Black women Welcome National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice's New Executive Director](https://blackrj.org/black-women-welcome-national-latina-institute-for-reproductive-healths-new-executive-director/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Recently, the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice announced that Guadalupe ‘Lupe’ Rodriguez would assume the role of executive director. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda released the following statement in support of Rodriguez’s leadership: “We want
- [Black Women Urge Congress to Move Forward with Renaming Military Bases Currently Named for Confederates](https://blackrj.org/black-women-urge-congress-to-move-forward-with-renaming-military-bases-currently-named-for-confederates/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) awaits reconciliation of the Senate and House versions of the bill. While both chambers require military bases named after confederate officers be renamed, Trump has threatened to veto the bill if it includes that mandate.
- [Keep an Eye on the Courts](https://blackrj.org/keep-an-eye-on-the-courts/) - While many people are focused on the election results, we urge you to keep an eye on the courts. A few weeks after the rushed confirmation of Justice Amy Coney Barrett and amid the election, the Supreme Court began its new term and heard oral arguments in the Fulton v. City of Philadelphia case. A ruling against the city
- [Black Women Urge U.S. Supreme Court to Protect the Affordable Care Act](https://blackrj.org/black-women-urge-u-s-supreme-court-to-protect-the-affordable-care-act/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments in a case that could strike down the Affordable Care Act, leaving millions of people without health care coverage. Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive
- [Amplifying and Mobilizing the HBCU Vote ](https://blackrj.org/amplifying-and-mobilizing-the-hbcu-vote/) - Far too often, the voices of HBCU students are stifled in the campus voting conversation. The Next Generation Leadership Institute fellows are shifting that narrative and are leading the charge on highlighting the importance of voting to their peers and campus networks. Now more than ever, it is critical to amplify the voices of HBCU
- [6 Ways to Protect Yourself While Voting & Organizing](https://blackrj.org/6-ways-to-protect-yourself-while-voting-organizing/) - Getting out the vote can be difficult and sometimes dangerous work, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Activists and voters must maintain their safety while ensuring people can peacefully vote, organize, and protest within their communities. Our partner organization Black Women for Wellness, was joined by Dr. Jill Humphries, a legal observer trainer, and James Simmons,
- [Black women reject confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to U.S. Supreme Court](https://blackrj.org/black-women-reject-confirmation-of-amy-coney-barrett-to-u-s-supreme-court/) - WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Senate confirmed Amy Coney Barrett’s appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement in response: “In the crudest possible disparagement of Justice Ginsberg’s work, the Senate has continued its court packing with the
- [Black Women Lead the Charge on Election Day](https://blackrj.org/black-women-lead-the-charge-on-election-day/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Black women voters turned out in unprecedented numbers on Election Day, delivering wins to Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement: “We won! Black
- [Congratulations to the President-Elect and Vice President-Elect](https://blackrj.org/congratulations-to-the-president-elect-and-vice-president-elect/) - Congratulations to President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris! Finally, after four long years, we can restore decency and respect back to the presidency. We also applaud this historic moment of the first woman and the first Black and Asian American vice president in our country. We are especially grateful to all of the
- [Will Your Mail-In Ballot Be Counted? Here's How to Check the Status of Your Ballot](https://blackrj.org/will-your-mail-in-ballot-be-counted-heres-how-to-check-its-status/) - A record number of Americans requested a mail-in ballot this year, surpassing 2016 in nearly every state by the end of September. If you're one of the many who have already cast their votes by mail, you may be wondering whether your ballot arrived at its destination. Recently, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that mail-in ballots in Pennsylvania
- [Black women provide COVID relief funding for communities because elected officials failed](https://blackrj.org/black-women-provide-covid-relief-funding-for-communities-because-elected-officials-failed/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Emergency COVID Relief Fund to provide aid in seven cities. WASHINGTON — In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda today announced the establishment of a COVID Emergency Relief Fund, to provide needed pandemic recovery funding for the organization’s state partners serving the
- [7 Inspiring Voter Plans](https://blackrj.org/7-inspiring-voter-plans/) - We just wrapped up our Reproductive Justice Week of Action. We asked Black women across the country to share their voter plan for the November election on their social media platforms. What they shared left us in awe of the activism, thoughtfulness and dedication Black women had not only to get out their own vote
- [Next Gen Fellows Join Us As RJWOA 2020 Swag Ambassadors](https://blackrj.org/next-gen-fellows-join-us-as-rjwoa-2020-swag-ambassadors/) - During Reproductive Justice Week of Action 2020, a week dedicated to mobilizing and amplifying our collective voices around policy and culture change issues, we asked our Next Generation Leadership Institute Fellows to join us as Swag Ambassadors. Each of our fellows, suited up in their RJWOA 2020 swag, shared why they're voters and how they
- [Black women reject nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to U.S. Supreme Court](https://blackrj.org/black-women-reject-nomination-of-judge-amy-coney-barrett-to-u-s-supreme-court/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — This week, the U.S. Senate began the confirmation hearing of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to fill the vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and
- [I AM A VOTER](https://blackrj.org/i-am-a-voter-2020/) - In the coming weeks, as we lead up to Reproductive Justice Week of Action and Election Day, we want to honor our foremothers and Black women today, who are transforming our world right before our eyes. Each of these Black women's dedication to advancing civil and voting rights has made it possible for us to
- [What the Loss of Ruth Bader Ginsburg Means to Us](https://blackrj.org/what-the-loss-of-ruth-bader-ginsburg-means-to-us/) - Vice President of Government Affairs Michelle Batchelor joins President and CEO of Black Women’s Health Imperative Linda Goler Blount on Black and Well TV to discuss the continuing fight for Reproductive Justice in the midst of a U.S. Supreme Court Justice appointment to replace Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Other guests include President and CEO of
- [Marcela Howell on Physicians’ Role in Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/marcela-howell-on-physicians-role-in-reproductive-justice/) - Founder and President Marcela Howell joins Montefiore Medical Center’s Chelsea Brown and Payal Patel to discuss Reproductive Justice and how it can and should be applied by family medicine physicians. Watch their discussion below:
- [Sexual Reproductive Health, Rights and Justice Partner Statement on SCOTUS Vacancy](https://blackrj.org/partner-statement-scotus-vacancy/) - Justice Ginsburg was a tireless guardian of the Constitution, an outspoken protector of equality under the law and a lifelong advocate for fairness and justice. As leaders of the movements for reproductive justice, health, and rights, we honor her legacy by remaining steadfast in our commitment to fight for the rights, liberties and access to
- [4 Ways to Get Involved](https://blackrj.org/4-ways-to-get-involved/) - Black women are powerful. We have always been politically engaged. Despite concerted efforts time and time again to silence our voices and votes, Black women have always led movements for change and mobilized to protect our human rights. The tragic loss of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a fearless protector of our constitutional and
- [Black women call for an end to business as usual in the face of ongoing police violence](https://blackrj.org/black-women-call-for-an-end-to-business-as-usual-in-the-face-of-ongoing-police-violence/) - In response to the grand jury indictment in the Breonna Taylor case, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement...
- [Black women mourn death of Justice Ginsburg, vow to continue the struggle for equality](https://blackrj.org/black-women-mourn-death-of-justice-ginsburg-vow-to-continue-the-struggle-for-equality/) - Statement from Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Tonight, the death of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was announced. Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in response:
- [4 Steps to MAKE A PLAN to Vote!](https://blackrj.org/4-steps-to-make-a-plan-to-vote/) - With election day quickly approaching and the COVID-19 pandemic still surging, it is essential that our communities make a plan to vote and share that plan widely. We know there are attempts to suppress our vote so having a voter plan answers all the important questions you may have and ensures that your vote will
- [I Am A Voter: Voter Suppression and Black Women](https://blackrj.org/i-am-a-voter-voter-suppression-and-black-women/) - Do you have a voting plan? If not, voting rights activist Stacey Abrams says it’s a must and you may want to add it to your “To Do List”. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda’s CEO and founder Marcela Howell moderated an informative, live discussion on Friday, Aug. 14 addressing voter
- [Following the Next Generation Leadership Institute](https://blackrj.org/next-gen-welcome/) - We are excited to welcome the 2020-2022 class of our Next Generation Leadership Institute. The 12 fellows in this class of NextGen rock stars are awe-inspiring and devoted to serving their campus communities. They are dedicated to empowering their peers, advancing Reproductive Justice, and ending gender and racial discrimination while promoting better health outcomes for Black Women. Fellows hail from HBCU's from across the nation, including Dillard University, Hampton University, Howard University, Lincoln University, and
- [Black women demand pay equity](https://blackrj.org/black-women-demand-pay-equity/) - On August 13, 2020, Black women finally catch up to what white men were paid last year WASHINGTON — Today, Black Women’s Equal Pay Day, marks the day when Black women catch up to what white men were paid last year. Equal Pay Day, which looks at the gender gap in pay between men and
- [Jacob Blake Statement](https://blackrj.org/jacob-blake-statement/) - WASHINGTON — With protests continuing around the country to demand justice for Jacob Blake, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement: “When she refused to take the court, Naomi Osaka said, ‘before I am an athlete, I am a black woman.’ No matter
- [In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda announces next generation of RJ leaders](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-national-black-womens-reproductive-justice-agenda-announces-next-generation-of-rj-leaders/) - Next Generation Leadership Institute grows by 33%, unveils new curriculum, welcomes 2020-2022 class of HBCU student fellows WASHINGTON — In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda is proud to welcome a new class of Next Generation Leadership Institute Fellows. The two-year paid fellowship serves as a formal pipeline for training young Black
- [2020 Next Generation Leadership Institute Fellows](https://blackrj.org/past-fellows-2020/) - Graduated 2020 Fellows
- [The Blueprint for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice Releases First Priorities for an Incoming Administration](https://blackrj.org/blueprint-first-priorities-for-an-incoming-administration/) - WASHINGTON — Today, the Blueprint for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice released First Priorities, a detailed punch list of executive and agency actions for the opening days of an incoming administration. First Priorities is based on the Blueprint, a bold, intersectional, and proactive policy agenda to advance sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice released last year
- [Black women applaud Biden’s choice for VP](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-bidens-choice-for-vp/) - ‘Sen. Kamala Harris is highly qualified and has a proven record of fighting for human and civil rights.’ WASHINGTON — Today, Joe Biden announced that Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) will be his running mate in the Democratic bid for the White House. In Our Own Voice: National Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela
- [Why the Next COVID Relief Package Must Protect Black Women](https://blackrj.org/why-covid-relief-must-protect-black-women/) - Last week, Republicans in Congress decided that the American people are less critical than billion-dollar corporations. These elected officials who were put in office to do one job—represent their constituents—determined that states with depleted budgets and millions of American people who are unemployed and suffering should 'pull themselves up by the bootstraps.' Senator Mitch McConnell
- [Do You Have What it Takes to be a Reproductive Justice Leader?](https://blackrj.org/do-you-have-what-it-takes-to-be-a-reproductive-justice-leader/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda is thrilled to announce that the 2020-2022 Next Generation Leadership Institute Fellowship Application is now open! The Next Generation Leadership Institute is a paid two-year fellowship conducted during the nine-month academic school year. The Institute serves as a formal pipeline for training students from Historically
- [In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda seeks next generation of leaders for two-year paid fellowship opportunity](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-national-black-womens-reproductive-justice-agenda-seeks-next-generation-of-leaders-for-two-year-paid-fellowship-opportunity/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda is seeking applicants for the Next Generation Leadership Institute, a paid two-year fellowship...
- [Congratulations 2020 Next Generation Leadership Institute Graduates](https://blackrj.org/congratulations-2020-next-generation-leadership-institute-graduates/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Agenda hosted the Next Generation Leadership Institute inaugural cohort graduation ceremony on May 20, 2020. Staff members and fellows gathered virtually to honor the dedication and commitment that our nine bold fellows displayed throughout the program.
- [Reproductive Justice is Our Movement!](https://blackrj.org/reproductive-justice-is-our-movement/) - By Shamya Hutchinson I am so grateful to have been able to experience the amazing spirit, love, and power of the Reproductive Justice movement Sept 19-Sept 24 in Washington DC. I was honored to be a part of such a historic moment! The energy in the room was electrifying and powerful beyond belief. When likeminded
- [Leading the Charge on Supporting HBCU Students Through Covid-19 and Beyond](https://blackrj.org/leading-the-charge-on-supporting-hbcu-students-through-covid-19-and-beyond/) - By Giovanteey Bishop, In Our Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Next Generation Leadership Institute Program Manager With the spread of COVID-19, many campuses across the nation were faced with sudden closures leaving students to bear the brunt of transitioning to distance learning. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are likely to get hit especially hard, while also
- [Shifting the narrative to address the health inequities affecting Trans and Gender-Diverse folx](https://blackrj.org/shifting-the-narrative-to-address-the-health-inequities-affecting-trans-and-gender-diverse-folx/) - by Jenn Mahan, SPARK Reproductive Justice NOW!’s inaugural If/When/How Law and Policy Fellow SPARK’s 2020 policy report, Shifting the Narrative: A Reproductive Justice Analysis of the Health Inequities Affecting Trans and Gender-Diverse Folx in Georgia and the Policies Necessary for Change aims to highlight and uplift the critical research conducted by Trans and Gender-Diverse communities.
- [Black Women Mourn Death of Rep. John Lewis, Vow to Continue His Quest for Justice](https://blackrj.org/black-women-mourn-death-of-rep-john-lewis-vow-to-continue-his-quest-for-justice/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Yesterday, U.S. Rep. John Lewis, a lifelong champion of civil rights and equality died. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President, Marcela Howell, issued the following statement: “With heavy hearts, we mourn
- [Lack of Access to Clean Water Harms Women of Color](https://blackrj.org/lack-of-access-to-clean-water-harms-women-of-color/) - Clean water is unquestionably a priority for Black, Indigenous, and communities of color, and significantly impacts if, when, and how they raise their families, and how they vote. Access to clean, potable water is critical to our daily lives. People need water to drink, to bathe, to wash their hands, to cook, to survive and,
- [Black women condemn Supreme Court birth control decision](https://blackrj.org/black-women-condemn-supreme-court-birth-control-decision/) - “The Supreme Court’s 7-2 decision to restrict access to essential health care mandated by the Affordable Care Act, especially in the midst of a public health crisis, is a disgrace. Black women, who already face enormous barriers to healthcare will be disparately impacted by this grave injustice."
- [Examining RJ Views in the South, Tackling Climate Change and Pregnancy, and Standing in Solidarity with the Movement for Black Lives](https://blackrj.org/examining-rj-views-in-the-south-tackling-climate-change-and-pregnancy-and-standing-in-solidarity-with-the-movement-for-black-lives/) - As a part of In Our Own Voice’s webinar series, this month, we hosted Reproductive Justice Polling in the South: What Black Women Think in Tennessee and Mississippi in partnership with our partner organization SisterReach...
- [Black women to Democrats: Defend our rights or don’t count on our votes](https://blackrj.org/black-women-to-democrats-defend-our-rights-or-dont-count-on-our-votes/) - Once again, House Democrats will attach the Hyde Amendment to ban abortion coverage for poor women in the appropriations bill. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the follow statement in response...
- [Black communities applaud U.S. Supreme Court  abortion decision](https://blackrj.org/black-communities-applaud-u-s-supreme-court-abortion-decision/) - Today the Supreme Court issued a ruling in June Medical Services, LLC v. Gee to overturn Louisiana’s law requiring doctors who provide abortion care to have hospital admitting privileges, which would have left only one doctor to provide abortion care in the entire state.
- [Black women demand D.C. statehood](https://blackrj.org/black-women-demand-d-c-statehood/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President & CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill granting statehood to Washington, D.C. (H.R. 51). In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President and CEO Marcela Howell issued the following statement: “All
- [Black women applaud U.S. Supreme Court decision protecting Dreamers](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-u-s-supreme-court-decision-protecting-dreamers/) - Today, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling that the Trump administration cannot carry out its plan to shut down the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which has allowed nearly 800,000 young people to avoid deportation and remain in the U.S.
- [Black women applaud U.S. Supreme Court decision protecting LGBTQ workers from discrimination](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-u-s-supreme-court-decision-protecting-lgbtq-workers-from-discrimination/) - Today the Supreme Court issued a ruling that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which makes it illegal for employers to discriminate because of a person's sex, also protects LGBTQ workers.
- [Climate Change an Emerging Threat to Pregnancy Health](https://blackrj.org/climate-change-an-emerging-threat-to-pregnancy-health/) - Webinar Highlights Connection Between Reproductive Justice and Heat Health Epidemiology...
- [Why Black Women Can’t Breathe – A Statement From the Black Women’s Health Imperative](https://blackrj.org/why-black-women-cant-breathe-a-statement-from-the-black-womens-health-imperative/) - ‘I can’t breathe’ is a term that is notoriously recognized as the final, helpless declaration made before the tragic deaths of Black men at the hands of law enforcement officials...
- [Black voters matter, too](https://blackrj.org/black-voters-matter-too/) - This week, Ella Jones became the first African-American elected mayor in Ferguson, Missouri. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda founder and President Marcela Howell issued the following statement in response...
- [Black women condemn police violence](https://blackrj.org/black-women-condemn-police-violence/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda President Marcela Howell on anti-police brutality uprisings...
- [Letter to House and Senate Leadership on Federal Policing Priorities](https://blackrj.org/letter-to-house-and-senate-leadership-on-federal-policing-priorities/) - Dear Speaker Pelosi, Leader McCarthy, Majority Leader McConnell, and Minority Leader Schumer: On behalf of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights (The Leadership Conference), a coalition charged by its diverse membership of more than 220 national organizations to promote and protect civil and human rights in the United States and the 386 undersigned organizations, we urge you to take swift and decisive legislative action in response to ongoing fatal police killings and other violence against Black people across our country...
- [Reproductive Justice advocates applaud Senate introduction of HEAL for Immigrant Women and Families Act](https://blackrj.org/reproductive-justice-advocates-applaud-senate-introduction-of-heal-for-immigrant-women-and-families-act/) - Today, Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the Health Equity and Access under the Law (HEAL) for Immigrant Women and Families Act in the Senate. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda founder and President Marcela Howell issued the following statement:
- [Historic Improvements in Women’s Health and Well-Being:  Reflecting on Ten Years of the ACA](https://blackrj.org/historic-improvements-in-womens-health-and-well-being-reflecting-on-ten-years-of-the-aca/) - On the tenth anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), we want to make one thing perfectly clear: the ACA is the greatest advancement for women’s health in a generation. Since its passage, the uninsured rate for women has nearly halved from 18 percent in 2008 to 11 percent in 2018. And while disparities in
- [Black women call on lawmakers to do more to support them during the pandemic](https://blackrj.org/black-women-call-on-lawmakers-to-do-more-to-support-them-during-the-pandemic/) - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation that will provide $2 trillion to address the coronavirus crisis. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President Marcela Howell issued the following statement:
- [Black women celebrate Rev. Lowery’s life](https://blackrj.org/black-women-celebrate-rev-lowerys-life/) - Statement on death of Joseph Lowery by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President Marcela Howell
- [We stand for reproductive health as U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments in Pennsylvania cases](https://blackrj.org/we-stand-for-reproductive-health-as-u-s-supreme-court-hears-arguments-in-pennsylvania-cases/) - Today, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in two cases that will review a Trump administration rule that would allow employers with religious or moral objections to birth control to limit their employees' access to free birth control under the Affordable Care Act. Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement:
- [150+ Groups: We Can Protect Democracy Even as We Safeguard Our Health](https://blackrj.org/150-groups-we-can-protect-democracy-even-as-we-safeguard-our-health/) - The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, our Voting Rights Task Force co-chairs, and more than 150 organizations called on Congress to fully fund and direct states and counties to administer the 2020 elections in a safe, fair, and accessible manner. The groups advocated for the implementation of vote-by-mail, the expansion of early voting, and viable in-person voting options.
- [Wage gap compounds coronavirus burden on Black women](https://blackrj.org/wage-gap-compounds-coronavirus-burden-on-black-women/) - Today is Equal Pay Day, a day that spotlights how far into the year – three months – a woman must work in order to earn the same pay a white man earned the previous year.
- [Reproductive Justice advocates demand courts overturn unconstitutional ban on Medicaid abortion coverage](https://blackrj.org/reproductive-justice-advocates-demand-courts-overturn-unconstitutional-ban-on-medicaid-abortion-coverage/) - New Voices for Reproductive Justice files amicus brief supporting challenge to Pa. statute, citing disparate harm to Black women and girls
- [Protect Title X Funding!](https://blackrj.org/protect-title-x-funding/) - In mid 2019, the Trump Administration instituted a nationwide gag rule on Title X funding. The new rule prioritizes natural family planning and abstinence, especially for adolescents, and imposes new barriers to abortion access.
- [You Deserve Better](https://blackrj.org/you-deserve-better/) - Film, television, digital media, art all have an impact on how we both perceive the world as well as establishing social and political norms. A recent study out of USC’s Annenberg Hollywood Health & Society program, showed that after participants watched a television show inclusive of trans people in a positive fashion, they were more likely to have a positive attitude towards trans people.
- [Changing Policy and Shaping the Narrative to address the Black Maternal Health Crisis](https://blackrj.org/changing-policy-and-shaping-the-narrative-to-address-the-black-maternal-health-crisis/) - By now, you’ve likely heard the statistic, “Black women are 3-4 times more likely to die in childbirth and of pregnancy-related causes than their white counterparts.” But the truth is, we are more than just a statistic, which is why we must continue to advocate for meaningful policy and institutional change. During Black Maternal Health
- [Black women demand action on Black maternal health crisis](https://blackrj.org/black-women-demand-action-on-black-maternal-health-crisis/) - This week is Black Maternal Health Week (April 11 –17, 2020). In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President Marcela Howell issued the following statement:
- [Reproductive Justice Advocates Urge Senate Judiciary Panel to Block Confirmation of U.S. Supreme Court Nominee Neil Gorsuch](https://blackrj.org/reproductive-justice-advocates-urge-senate-judiciary-panel-to-block-confirmation-of-u-s-supreme-court-nominee-neil-gorsuch/) - For Immediate Release: March 15, 2017 For Interviews Contact: michelle@blackrj.org Washington, D.C. — In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda, the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health (NLIRH), and National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF), along with 43 reproductive justice organizations, sent a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee urging them
- [Black women call on Supreme Court to uphold Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/black-women-call-on-supreme-court-to-uphold-reproductive-justice/) - Amicus brief outlines devastating consequences for women of color, lesbian and transgender Louisianans On December 2, 2019, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda joined partner organization Women With a Vision and other reproductive justice advocates from across the nation in filing an amicus brief in June Medical Services, LLC v. Gee,
- [Black women applaud passage of the Voting Rights Advancement Act (HR 4)](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-passage-of-the-voting-rights-advancement-act-hr-4/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2019 (HR 4). Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in response: “We applaud the
- [Black women leaders call for Reproductive Justice to commemorate Roe V. Wade](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-call-for-reproductive-justice-to-commemorate-roe-v-wade/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President Marcela Howell Today is the 47th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion. Marcela Howell issued the following statement about reproductive health and rights: “Almost as soon as the historic Roe decision was
- [Black women leaders denounce HHS attack on Californian’s access to abortion care](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-denounce-hhs-attack-on-californians-access-to-abortion-care/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda and Black Women for Wellness Today, the Department of Health and Human Services threatened to withhold federal funding from California if the state does not remove its requirement that private health insurance plans include abortion coverage. Marcela Howell, founder and president of In
- [Voting Rights Coalition Letter: Protect Voting Rights and Public Safety in Response to COVID-19](https://blackrj.org/voting-rights-coalition-letter-protect-voting-rights-and-public-safety-in-response-to-covid-19/) - Dear Members of Congress, Governors, and State Election Officials: The co-chairs of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights’ Voting Rights Task Force, and undersigned organizations, write to urge Congress and all state elections officials to adopt and fund a number of key policies to ensure both the public’s safety and the orderly conduct
- [Dear SCOTUS… Trust Black Women](https://blackrj.org/dear-scotus-trust-black-women/) - It’s only been 24 hours and I’m still pumped with excitement and ready for action. I’m feeding off of the energy of the thousands of women who I stood in solidarity with on the steps of the Supreme Court of the United States on Mar. 4 at the #MyRightMyDecision rally. I do not take lightly
- [Let your U.S. senators know that you're paying attention to the courts!](https://blackrj.org/let-your-u-s-senators-know-that-youre-paying-attention-to-the-courts/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda along with our Georgia state partners at SPARK Reproductive Justice NOW and SisterLove Inc, and our national partners at National Asian American Women's Forum and National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, today submitted a letter to the U.S. Senate to voice opposition to the confirmation
- [Black women leaders denounce Trump’s latest attack on health care access](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-denounce-trumps-latest-attack-on-health-care-access/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — Today, the Trump administration announced an overhaul of the Medicaid program that could deny or limit benefits and may result in reducing enrollment in the program, particularly in states hostile to the Affordable Care Act (ACA)
- [Listen Up! Black Maternal Health and Abortion Access](https://blackrj.org/listen-up-black-maternal-health-and-abortion-access/) - In Our Own Voice’s Vice President of Government Affairs Jessica Pinckney spoke her truth as a guest on Jennie Wetter’s podcast RePROS Fight Back. She spoke about how the lack of access to quality abortion and maternal health care impacts Black Women. Listen to what she had to say! Here are the links to the
- [Black women leaders denounce SCOTUS decision targeting low-income immigrants](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-denounce-scotus-decision-targeting-low-income-immigrants/) - Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and President Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court voted 5-4 to allow the Trump administration to deny residence or entry to the country for immigrants who need public assistance. This decision follows last week’s Trump administration announcement of a new visa restriction
- [Reproductive Justice is Economic Justice: My Testimony to Congress](https://blackrj.org/reproductive-justice-is-economic-justice-my-testimony-to-congress/) - Five minutes is not a lot of time, but as a Black woman, when you have an opportunity to advocate for your sisters before members of Congress, you make it work. Today I had the privilege of testifying to members of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform. The members convened a hearing to examine
- [Fighting breast cancer and LGBTQ stigma](https://blackrj.org/fighting-breast-cancer-and-lgbtq-stigma/) - Seeking health care services can often be challenging for members of the LGBTQ community. Discrimination and ignorance can be barriers to care for this group, particularly, when it comes to seeking preventive care like screenings for breast cancer. Which is how a partnership was born between the National LBGTQ Task Force’s Creating Change Conference and
- [Community Creates Change](https://blackrj.org/community-creates-change/) - It feels hopeful to be attending Creating Change 2020. Since attending my first Creating Change conference, several years ago, I have been fighting for Reproductive Justice in a political environment and climate that has been harmful in every way to my people and the communities that I am a part of. We have seen threats
- [Black women denounce court’s decision to gut the Affordable Care Act](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-courts-decision-to-gut-the-affordable-care-act/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda WASHINGTON — Yesterday evening, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit struck down the mandatory coverage requirement of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), leaving a lower court to decide if the rest of the landmark legislation can remain without the requirement.
- [How Young Activists are Shifting the Paradigm on Gun Violence](https://blackrj.org/how-young-activists-are-shifting-the-paradigm-on-gun-violence/) - By Giovanteey Bishop, In Our Own Voice Program Manager Generation Progress hosted the sixth annual #Fight4AFuture summit that is centered on eliminating mass incarceration and illuminating viable solutions to ending the gun violence epidemic. Generation Progress functions as an arm of The Center for American Progress and serves explicitly to uplift, empower, and engage young
- [Black women denounce high court’s decision to let Kentucky abortion restriction stand](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-high-courts-decision-to-let-kentucky-abortion-restriction-stand/) - Statement from In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Earlier this week, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected a challenge to a Kentucky law that forces doctors to describe ultrasound images and play fetal heartbeat sounds to patients seeking abortion. Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s
- [Support Black women and Reproductive Justice this #GIVINGTUESDAY](https://blackrj.org/support-black-women-and-reproductive-justice-this-givingtuesday/) - Be sure to include In Our Own Voice on your #GIVINGTUESDAY list In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, a national/state partnership to lift up the voices of Black women leaders, is encouraging supporters of women’s, civil and human rights to remember Black women on #GIVINGTUESDAY. While there are many organizations doing
- [She the People](https://blackrj.org/she-the-people/) - By Racine Tucker-Hamilton, VP of Communications Repealing the Hyde amendment, Medicare for all, voter suppression, and housing were just a few of the hot topics discussed at the first-ever women of color congressional town hall, “Women of Color Lead the Way: Building Power on the Ground and in Congress” on Oct. 24. Dozens of people,
- [We will carry on Rep. Elijah Cummings work — even as we mourn](https://blackrj.org/we-will-carry-on-rep-elijah-cummings-work-even-as-we-mourn/) - Statement from Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda “Today, we all mourn the passing of U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings, a lifelong champion of human and civil rights. The son of sharecroppers, Rep. Cummings embodied the promise of the American Dream while fighting the scourge of
- [During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Black Women-led Organizations Focus on the Intersections](https://blackrj.org/during-domestic-violence-awareness-month-black-women-led-organizations-focus-on-the-intersections/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda was thrilled to participate in a “Coffee and Conversation” on the intersections of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and Maternal Health hosted by Ujima, Inc.: The National Center on Violence Against Women in the Black Community. The conversation centered on violence, bias, and preventable deaths experienced
- [We stand with LGBTQ workers as U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments in discrimination cases](https://blackrj.org/we-stand-with-lgbtq-workers-as-u-s-supreme-court-hears-arguments-in-discrimination-cases/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WASHINGTON — Tomorrow the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in three cases that will decide whether Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects lesbians, gay men and trans people from workplace discrimination. Marcela Howell, founder and president of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice
- [Black Women Demand Supreme Court Protect Abortion Rights in Louisana](https://blackrj.org/black-women-demand-supreme-court-protect-abortion-rights-in-louisana/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Racine Tucker-Hamilton, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda 202.545.7660 or 301.922.8417 In response to the United States Supreme Court’s decision to grant certiorari in the June Medical Services, LLC v. Gee case, which challenges Louisiana’s admitting privileges law and, if allowed to take effect, would leave only
- [When You Live a Reproductive Justice Life](https://blackrj.org/when-you-live-a-reproductive-justice-life/) - “In Our Own Voice is the safest place for a Black leader of a Reproductive Justice organization to be.” Dazon Dixon Diallo, founder and president of SisterLove, Inc. I was thrilled to be among Black women leaders who shared their collective vision for the future during four inspirational days in September. We began with a
- [It's High Time We End Hyde If We Are Serious About Racial Justice](https://blackrj.org/its-high-time-we-end-hyde-if-we-are-serious-about-racial-justice/) - By Jessica González-Rojas, Marcela Howell, Sung Yeon Choimorrow The Hyde Amendment blocks women from using federal funds such as Medicaid to end unwanted pregnancies. On this 43rd anniversary of a rule that places undue burden on women of color, we say enough is enough. Say her name: Rosie Jimenez. She was a 27-year-old Chicana, the
- [A Discussion About Violence Against Women: It’s More than What You Think](https://blackrj.org/a-discussion-about-violence-against-women-its-more-than-what-you-think/) - In Our Own Voice: The Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda along with Planned Parenthood Federation of America co-hosted an issue forum, “Our Bodies, Our Lives, Our Destiny” at the Congressional Black Caucus annual legislative conference. Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) served as an honorary co-host of the event that explored the cultural and political consciousness around violence against Black women, girls, and femmes.
- [Black women applaud new bills to support reproductive justice and immigrants’ rights](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-new-bills-to-support-reproductive-justice-and-immigrants-rights/) - WASHINGTON — This week, three important bills to advance human and civil rights were introduced in the U.S. Congress. Yesterday, the EACH Woman Act was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Barbara Lee and in the Senate by Sen. Tammy Duckworth. The EACH Woman Act would ensure coverage — by private and government insurance — of all pregnancy related health care, including abortion.
- [Black Women respond to the State of the Union Address and applaud Stacey Abrams’ leadership](https://blackrj.org/black-women-respond-to-the-state-of-the-union-address-and-applaud-stacey-abrams-leadership/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FEB 6, 2019 Contact: Loretta Kane (917-410-7242 or loretta@caminopr.com) Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Vice President Jessica Pinckney WASHINGTON — Yesterday, President Trump delivered the State of the Union address and Stacey Abrams gave the Democratic response. In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive
- [Black women applaud Pennsylvania injunction to 
stop rollback of birth control coverage](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-pennsylvania-injunction-to-
stop-rollback-of-birth-control-coverage/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JAN 14, 2019 Contact: Loretta Kane (917-410-7242 or loretta@caminopr.com) Statement of In Our Own Voice President and CEO Marcela Howell WASHINGTON –– Today, a federal court in Pennsylvania granted a nationwide injunction blocking the Trump administration’s attack on birth control. Last year, the administration announced new rules to eliminate guaranteed birth control
- [34 Reproductive Justice organizations and allies call on Senate Judiciary Committee to oppose the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh](https://blackrj.org/34-reproductive-justice-organizations-and-allies-call-on-senate-judiciary-committee-to-oppose-the-confirmation-of-brett-kavanaugh/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 6, 2018 Contact: Loretta Kane (917-410-7242 or loretta@caminopr.com) WASHINGTON- Today, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda the National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum and the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health led the submission of a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee demanding that they oppose the
- [Black Women applaud selection of Dr. Leana Wen as new president of Planned Parenthood](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-selection-of-dr-leana-wen-as-new-president-of-planned-parenthood/) - WASHINGTON- Today, Planned Parenthood Federation of America announced the appointment of Dr. Leana Wen its new president. Marcela Howell, founder and executive director of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda, issued the following statement in response: "Congratulations to Dr. Leana Wen on her new position as president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. We applaud the appointment of a doctor, an advocate and an immigrant to lead an organization that is a trusted provider of quality, affordable health care, especially for women of color and underserved communities.
- [New opinion survey of African Americans to be released at 'When Black Women Lead' conference](https://blackrj.org/new-opinion-survey-of-african-americans-to-be-released-at-when-black-women-lead-conference/) - MEDIA ADVISORY September 22, 2017 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Data show most do not think it is a good time to be Black in America WASHINGTON - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda will release data from a national poll of Black adults, ''The lives and Voices
- [Black women stand with Muslims](https://blackrj.org/black-women-stand-with-muslims/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 26, 2018 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Statement by Marcela Howell, founder and executive director of In Our Own Voice WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, in a 5-4 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Trump administration's Muslim travel ban. Marcela Howell, founder and executive director of In Our
- [Black women leaders stand against latest version of Trump's "gag rule" on reproductive health care](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-stand-against-latest-version-of-trumps-gag-rule-on-reproductive-health-care/) - For Immediate Release May 23, 2018 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Statement from In Our Own Voice WASHINGTON - last night, the Trump administration released a draft notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that would deny federal funding to family planning providers and health clinics that provide abortion care or related services, including
- [Black women leaders denounce Trump's "domestic gag rule" on reproductive health care](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-denounce-trumps-domestic-gag-rule-on-reproductive-health-care/) - For Immediate Release May 18, 2018 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Statement from In Our Own Voice WASHINGTON- Today, the Trump administration announced plans to reinstate a Reagan­era policy that would deny federal funding to family planning providers and health clinics that provide abortion care or related services, including referrals. Marcela Howell,
- [Groundbreaking reproductive justice report outlines action agenda for Black women's rights](https://blackrj.org/groundbreaking-reproductive-justice-report-outlines-action-agenda-for-black-womens-rights/) - MEDIA ADVISORY April 2, 2018 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Activists, artists and local legislators gather for policy briefing on the health and wellbeing of Black women and girls in Ohio CLEVELAND - The Cleveland office of New Voices for Reproductive Justice (NVRJ) will host a Women of Color Political Luncheon and
- [Black women denounce high court's decision to allow North Carolina to stall redistricting](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-high-courts-decision-to-allow-north-carolina-to-stall-redistricting/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jan. 19, 2018 Contact: Loretta Kane (917-410-7242 or loretta@caminopr.com) Statement from In Our Own Voice WASHINGTON - Yesterday, the U.S. Supreme Court granted a request from North Carolina's Republican legislative leaders to stay a lower court's ruling that called for the redrawing of congressional district maps. Marcela Howell, founder and executive director
- [Black women denounce new HHS "office of discrimination," under disguise of conscience protections](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-new-hhs-office-of-discrimination-under-disguise-of-conscience-protections/) - For Immediate Release January 18, 2018 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Statement from In Our Own Voice WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, the Trump-Pence administration provided cover for those who would discriminate against women and transgender people seeking critical health care service. Marcela Howell, founder and executive director of In Our Own Voice:
- [Black women denounce suspension of Obama investigative rules on campus rape](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-suspension-of-obama-investigative-rules-on-campus-rape/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 7, 2017 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis (212-255-2575 or alexa@caminopr.com) Statement of In Our Own Voice Founder and Executive Director Marcela Howell WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Department of Education Secretary Betsy Devos announced plans to end the Obama administration's rules for investigating allegations of sexual violence on campus. In criticizing President Obama's
- [Black women continue fight for economic justice while Trump abandons equal pay protections](https://blackrj.org/black-women-continue-fight-for-economic-justice-while-trump-abandons-equal-pay-protections/) - For Immediate Release August 31, 2017 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Statement from In Our Own Voice WASHINGTON, D.C. - Yesterday, the White House revoked an Obama administration equal pay rule that required employers to disclose the amount they pay their workers by employee demographics. Despite her call for equal pay for
- [New poll results reveal support for women's reproductive health and rights among Dallas' Black communities](https://blackrj.org/new-poll-results-reveal-support-for-womens-reproductive-health-and-rights-among-dallas-black-communities/) - MEDIA ADVISORY December 14, 2017 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR (alexa@caminopr.com or 212-255-2575) Groundbreaking reproductive justice report outlines action agenda for Black women's rights DALLAS - The Afiya Center will host a policy briefing to review new polling data from across Texas and to discuss the latest In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive
- [Black women applaud TIME's Person of the Year 2017](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-times-person-of-the-year-2017-2/) - For Immediate Release December 5, 2017 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and Executive Director Marcela Howell WASHINGTON, D.C. - TIME Magazine has named "the silence breakers' as its 2017 Person of the Year, celebrating those who championed the #MeToo
- [Pittsburgh City Council Passes Will of Council Supporting Insurance Coverage for Abortion Care](https://blackrj.org/pittsburgh-city-council-passes-will-of-council-supporting-insurance-coverage-for-abortion-care/) - For Immediate Release: November 20, 20I7 Contact: Sara Innamorato, sara@newvoicespittsburgh.org. 412.736.0938 Pittsburgh is now the thirteenth locality to send a strong message in support of affordable access to abortion care PITTSBURGH - Sending a strong signal in support of affordable access to health care, including abortion care, the Pittsburgh City Council today passed a Will
- [Philadelphia Reps. Morgan Cephas and Christopher  Rabb speak at briefing on the state of Black  women's rights](https://blackrj.org/philadelphia-reps-morgan-cephas-and-christopher-rabb-speak-at-briefing-on-the-state-of-black-womens-rights/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 30, 2017 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 New Voices for Reproductive Justice hosts Philadelphia reproductive justice report briefing in partnership with In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda PHILADELPHIA- Friday, the Philadelphia office of New Voices for Reproductive Justice hosted a policy briefing on the
- [Groundbreaking reproductive justice report examines the lives of Black women](https://blackrj.org/groundbreaking-reproductive-justice-report-examines-the-lives-of-black-women/) - MEDIA ADVISORY October 23, 2017 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 New Voices for Reproductive Justice hosts Philadelphia report briefing in partnershie_ with In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda PHILADELPHIA- The Philadelphia office of New Voices for Reproductive Justice will host a policy briefing on the new In Our
- [Black women denounce Trump's latest  attack on health care access](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-trumps-latest-attack-on-health-care-access/) - For Immediate Release October 12, 2017 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR (alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575) Statement of In Our Own Voice Executive Director and Founder Marcella Howell WASHINGTON -Today, Trump issued an executive order that undercuts the Affordable Care Act. Marcela Howell, founder and executive director of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice
- [Black women denounce Trump's new hurdles to birth control access](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-trumps-new-hurdles-to-birth-control-access/) - For Immediate Release October 6, 2017 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Statement from In Our Own Voice Executive Director and Founder Marcela Howell WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Trump revoked an Obama administration rule that required employers to birth control coverage in employee health plans. Now, employers can refuse to cover birth control
- [Black women leaders strategize to change business as  usual in politics](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-strategize-to-change-business-as-usual-in-politics/) - MEDIA ADVISORY September 20, 2017 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 'When Black Women Lead' conference to focus on policies to advance Black women's rights WASHINGTON - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda will host a four-day summit in Washington, D.C. The conference theme, "When Black Women Lead," will
- [Black women leaders to brief the Congressional Black Caucus on the state of Black women's reproductive health](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-to-brief-the-congressional-black-caucus-on-the-state-of-black-womens-reproductive-health/) - MEDIA ADVISORY September 14, 2017 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr_com / 212-255-2575 Groundbreaking reproductive justice report findings to be presented at the Caucus's annual conference WASHINGTON - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda will conduct a policy briefing on the state of Black women and reproductive health as part of
- [Black women stand with Dreamers](https://blackrj.org/black-women-stand-with-dreamers/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 5, 20I7 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@.caminopccom / 212-255-2575 Statement from In Our Own Voice WASHINGTON, D.C. -Today, the Trump administration announced plans to end the Obama administration's Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which protects undocumented immigrant children from deportation by allowing them to work and attend school
- [In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda condemns racist violence, calls on Trump administration to take action](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-national-black-womens-reproductive-justice-agenda-condemns-racist-violence-calls-on-trump-administration-to-take-action/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 12, 20I7 Contact: Loretta Kane (9 I 7-4 I 0-724 2 or loretta@caminopr.com) Statement of Founder and Executive Director Marcela Howell WASHINGTON - In response to the deadly attack on civil rights protesters in Charlottesville, Virginia today, In Our OWN Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and Executive Director
- [Black women leaders urge Congress to block Kavanaugh Supreme Court nomination](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-urge-congress-to-block-kavanaugh-supreme-court-nomination/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JUL 10, 2018 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and Executive Director Marcela Howell WASHINGTON - Yesterday, President Trump announced Brett Kavanaugh as his nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court vacancy. In Our Own Voice: National Black
- [Black women leaders urge Supreme Court to protect Roe V. Wade after Kennedy retirement](https://blackrj.org/black-women-leaders-urge-supreme-court-to-protect-roe-v-wade-after-kennedy-retirement/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JUN 27, 2018 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Statement by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and Executive Director Marcela Howell WASHINGTON - Today, Justice Anthony M. Kennedy announced that he will be retiring from the Supreme Court, paving the way for President Trump
- [Black women denounce latest attack on reproductive health and rights](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-latest-attack-on-reproductive-health-and-rights/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 26, 2018 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr_com / 212-255-2575 Statement by Marcela Howell, founder and executive director of In Our Own Voice WASHINGTON- Today, the U.S. Supreme Court in a 5-4 vote on the NIFLA v. Becerra declared that lies and trickery can pass for reproductive health care for women.
- [#WhenBlackWomenlead campaign highlights the most impactful leaders of our time: Black women](https://blackrj.org/whenblackwomenlead-campaign-highlights-the-most-impactful-leaders-of-our-time-black-women/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 2, 2018 Contact: Alexa Mauzy-Lewis, Camino PR alexa@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 In Our Own Voice celebrates Women's History Month by lifting up the Black women who are changing history WASHINGTON - Throughout Women's History Month, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda is launching a social media campaign, #WhenBlackWomenLead,
- [2018 Earth Day — black women are leading the fight against environmental racism](https://blackrj.org/2018-earth-day-black-women-are-leading-the-fight-against-environmental-racism/) - BY MARCELA HOWELL AND JANETTE ROBINSON-FLINT, OPINION CONTRIBUTORS — 04/22/18 10:30 AM EDT Environmental policy in the age of the Trump administration and Scott Pruitt’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proved to be devastating, with a long list of first year actions designed at dismantling basic protections. These actions range from rolling back Obama-era regulations
- [Black women applaud TIME's Person of the Year 2017](https://blackrj.org/black-women-applaud-times-person-of-the-year-2017/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda Founder and Executive Director Marcela Howell WASHINGTON, D.C. - TIME Magazine has named "the silence breakers' as its 2017 Person of the Year, celebrating those who championed the #MeToo movement and came forward publicly to name and condemn sexual assaulters. Marcela Howell, founder
- [January Is a Month to Recommit to the Struggle for Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/january-is-a-month-to-recommit-to-the-struggle-for-reproductive-justice/) - Opinion:"We have come a long way. We’ve made gains against impossible odds. We have much to celebrate and much more to do." by Marcela Howell, January 16, 2018 With the 45th anniversary of Roe v. Wade—the U.S. Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion—and the one-year anniversary of the Women’s March quickly approaching, this is a
- [National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda Condemns Racist Violence](https://blackrj.org/national-black-womens-reproductive-justice-agenda-condemns-racist-violence/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 12, 2017 Contact: Loretta Kane (917-410-7242 or loretta@caminopr.com) In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda Condemns Racist Violence, Calls on Trump administration to take action Statement of Founder and Executive Director Marcela Howell WASHINGTON — In response to the deadly attack on civil rights protesters in Charlottesville, Virginia today, In Our Own
- [GOP healthcare attack is a vendetta against President Obama](https://blackrj.org/gop-healthcare-attack-is-a-vendetta-against-president-obama/) - After the final nail was hammered in the coffin of the zombie-like Republican healthcare bill in the Senate, President Trump suggested that his party wait out the collapse of the federal insurance market, repeal the Affordable Care Act in the meantime, and eventually introduce a new plan “that will start from a clean slate.” The
- [Black Women Are Still Fighting for Our Lives Even if GOP Health Care Bill Fails](https://blackrj.org/black-women-are-still-fighting-for-our-lives-even-if-gop-health-care-bill-fails/) - Republicans have now tried and failed three times to pass health care bills that would dismantle the Affordable Care Act — and potentially cut access to health care for millions. We’ve seen the introduction of hundreds of new reproductive health restrictions and insistent efforts to defund Planned Parenthood. In the midst of the GOP’s attack
- [New report outlines action agenda for interlocking issues of reproductive, racial, criminal justice](https://blackrj.org/new-report-outlines-action-agenda-for-interlocking-issues-of-reproductive-racial-criminal-justice/) - For Immediate Release: June 27, 2017 Contact: Amy Lebowitz, Camino PR amy@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Report briefing puts human face to Black women’s reproductive justice challenges WASHINGTON — Today, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda launched its groundbreaking new report on the state of Black women and reproductive justice. The report offers
- [Black Women Denounce Killing of Charleena Lyles by Seattle police](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-killing-of-charleena-lyles-by-seattle-police/) - Statement of In Our Own Voice Founder and Executive Director Marcela Howell WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Sunday, June 18, 2017, Charleena Lyles was shot dead, in her own home, by two white, Seattle police officers, who responded to her report of a burglary. Lyles was a 30-year-old Black woman. Her four children were in the
- [Black women denounce new Voting Commission](https://blackrj.org/black-women-denounce-new-voting-commission/) - For Immediate Release May 12, 2017 Contact: Loretta Kane (917-410-7242 or loretta@caminopr.com) Statement from In Our Own Voice WASHINGTON, D.C. — Yesterday, the White House announced the creation of a commission to investigate voter fraud, spurred by Trump’s unfounded claims of voting irregularities during the 2016 elections. Marcela Howell, Founder and Executive Director of
- [Black women call for more action to stop the attack on voting rights.](https://blackrj.org/black-women-call-for-more-action-to-stop-the-attack-on-voting-rights/) - For Immediate Release May 15, 2017 Contact: Amy Lebowitz, Camino PR amy@caminopr.com / 212-255-2575 Statement from In Our Own Voice WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the U.S. Supreme Court let stand the decision of lower court in the North Carolina voting rights case, which ruled that the 2013 voting law discriminated against African Americans “with almost
- [Resisting Hate Is An American Value](https://blackrj.org/resisting-hate-is-an-american-value/) - Marcela Howell, Executive Director, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda Next week, two things will happen. On January 16, we will celebrate the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. and his vision of equality and activism. Then four days later, on January 20, we will see Donald J. Trump become the
- [The Reintroduction of the EACH Woman Act, A Show of Strength and Unity](https://blackrj.org/the-reintroduction-of-the-each-woman-act-a-show-of-strength-and-unity/) - For Immediate Release: January 31, 2017 Contact: michelle@blackrj.org Washington, D.C.--Today In Our Own Voice applauds the leadership and commitment of Representatives Barbara Lee (D-CA) and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), along with 102 other members of Congress, for reintroducing the Equal Access to Abortion Coverage in Health Insurance (EACH Woman) Act. With the reintroduction they have made
- [Hyde Amendment is bad policy (and unpopular too!)](https://blackrj.org/hyde-amendment-is-bad-policy-and-unpopular-too/) - In statements quoted in Anti-abortion group pressuring Kaine, Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of the Susan B. Anthony List, perpetuates harmful myths about the Hyde Amendment, an annual budget policy rider that denies insurance coverage for abortion to women who receive their health care coverage from the government. It’s time to get the facts straight. The reality is,
- [Black Women and Abortion — New Data Tells an Old Story](https://blackrj.org/black-women-and-abortion-new-data-tells-an-old-story/) - A new analysis from the Guttmacher Institute shows that more than half of women denied coverage for abortion under the Hyde Amendment are women of color. Other recent data show that while black women comprise only 14.9 percent of women of reproductive age, we make up 27.6 percent of abortion patients. The reasons for these disparities are complex,
- [Step Forward: Opening the Dialogue on Sexual Violence and Black Girls](https://blackrj.org/step-forward-opening-the-dialogue-on-sexual-violence-and-black-girls/) - By Nourbese Flint In a classroom at Gardena High School, just outside of Los Angeles, a group of young Black women and women of color stand in a row and listen to a prompt: “If you don’t think young men respect you, step forward.” Each of the young women takes a step. “If you’ve ever
- [Women Win: U.S. Supreme Court Decision in Whole Woman’s Health v. Hellerstedt](https://blackrj.org/women-win-u-s-supreme-court-decision-in-whole-womans-health-v-hellerstedt/) - June 27 2016 Today the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed a woman’s constitutional right to make her own decisions about her health, family and future— no matter where she lives. By striking down the Texas law, HB2, the Court kept current clinics open in Texas, and set a precedent so that more clinics can open or reopen
- [Written Testimony from Black Women Reproductive Justice Organizations](https://blackrj.org/written-testimony-from-black-women-reproductive-justice-organizations/) - House Judicial Subcommittee on Constitution and Civil Justice Hearing on H.R. 4924 Prenatal Nondiscrimination Act (PRENDA) of 2016 Written Testimony from Black Women Reproductive Justice Organizations April 14, 2016 We write to you in one voice on behalf of Reproductive Justice for Black women, immigrant women, young women and low-income women. We, the undersigned organizations,
- [Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls Testimony on Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/congressional-caucus-on-black-women-and-girls-testimony-on-reproductive-justice/) - April 28, 2016 I want to thank Representatives Bonnie Watson-Coleman, Robin Kelly and Yvette Clarke and the Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls. My name is Marcela Howell and I am the founder and executive director for In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda In Our Own Voice was created in
- [In Our Own Voice on Celebrating the 43rd Anniversary of Roe v. Wade](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-on-celebrating-the-43rd-anniversary-of-roe-v-wade/) - Statement by Marcela Howell, Founder and Executive Director “As President Obama concluded his last State of the Union, his message to the American people was clear, if a little unconventional. He set low expectation of working with the conservative-controlled Congress in his remaining months. However, he set high expectation for the American people. He issued
- [Clinic Violence is a Reproductive Justice Issue](https://blackrj.org/clinic-violence-is-a-reproductive-justice-issue/) - January 21, 2016—Based on data recently released by the Feminist Majority Foundation, “harassment, intimidation, and threats against abortion providers have nearly doubled, with the percentage of clinics impacted increasing from 26.6% in 2010 to 51.9% in 2014.” In Our Own Voice joined Congresswoman Donna Edwards (D-MD) and several other state and national advocates at the
- [Black Women’s Organizations File U.S. Supreme Court Brief in Support of Abortion Rights in Texas](https://blackrj.org/black-womens-organizations-file-u-s-supreme-court-brief-in-support-of-abortion-rights-in-texas/) - PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Michelle Batchelor, 202-749-8366, michelle@blackrj.org (January 5, 2016) Twelve Black women's Reproductive Justice organizations, led by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda, filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court case Whole Woman's Health, et al., v. Kirk Cole, Commissioner of the Texas Department of
- [Let’s Help Children of Color Breathe Easier](https://blackrj.org/lets-help-children-of-color-breathe-easier/) - By Janette Robinson Flint, executive director of Black Women for Wellness Cross-posted in LA Sentinel, November 20, 2015 When breathing is easy, we can think, create, and live fuller lives. But for many communities in Los Angeles, breathing is easier said than done. There are days where I look out the window, and can’t see
- [U.S. Supreme Court to Review Texas Law to Shut Down Clinics](https://blackrj.org/u-s-supreme-court-to-review-texas-law-to-shut-down-clinics/) - PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Marcela Howell, 202-841-3292, marcela@blackrj.org (November 13, 2015) - The U.S. Supreme Court, today, agreed to review a Texas law designed to shut down clinics that provide safe, legal abortion services. The case, Whole Woman’s Health v. Cole, was brought by Center for Reproductive Rights on behalf of a coalition
- [Black Women, Always at the Forefront of Change](https://blackrj.org/black-women-always-at-the-forefront-of-change/) - In 2012, a higher percentage of Black women voted than any other group. We played a pivotal role in President Obama's re-election, and we are responsible for the margin of victory for many successful candidates and in the defeat of anti-abortion initiatives. Yet it took nearly seven years in office for President Obama to finally
- [Black Reproductive Justice Activists Convene for a National  Strategy Summit in Washington, DC](https://blackrj.org/black-reproductive-justice-activists-convene-for-a-national-strategy-summit-in-washington-dc/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda convened more than 40 Black women Reproductive Justice leaders from around the country for the first annual Strategic Communications for Policy Change Summit in Washington, DC, September 25-29, 2015. Summit participants engaged in intense discussion, education and strategic planning for five days; resulting in a
- [Black Reproductive Justice Activists Convene for a National Strategy Summit](https://blackrj.org/black-reproductive-justice-activists-convene-for-a-national-strategy-summit/) - Black Reproductive Justice Activists Convene for a National Strategy Summit in Washington, DC (Washington, DC) – More than 40 Black women Reproductive Justice activists will gather in Washington, DC at the fhi360 Conference Center, 1825 Connecticut Avenue NW from September 25-29 for five days of strategic planning as part of the first Annual Strategic Communications
- [Abortion Access and Contraceptive Equity: A Matter of Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice](https://blackrj.org/abortion-access-and-contraceptive-equity-a-matter-of-reproductive-health-rights-and-justice/) - by Dr. Krystal Redman, SPARK Executive Director August 17, 2015 As we work progressively in the fight towards social and economic equality, we must continue to include the argument of; sexual and reproductive justice in order to takes steps towards achieving complete contraceptive equity, which includes access to safe and affordable abortion services. Contraceptive Equity
- [Black Women Matter More than Just Our Deaths](https://blackrj.org/black-women-matter-more-than-just-our-deaths/) - by Janette Robinson Flint I am deeply hurt, enraged and gravely concerned by the onslaught of violence against Black women and girls. The latest offense happened on Monday, July 13, when Sandra Bland, a 28 year-old woman who was pulled over for a minor traffic violation, was found dead in her Texas jail cell. The
- [National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda Applauds the Introduction of the EACH Woman Act](https://blackrj.org/national-black-womens-reproductive-justice-agenda-applauds-the-introduction-of-the-each-woman-act/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda thanks Representatives Barbara Lee (D-CA), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Louise Slaughter (D-NY), and more than 60 Members of Congress for taking leadership by introducing the Equal Access to Abortion Coverage in Health Insurance (EACH Woman) Act. This bill ensures health coverage for
- [Michael Brown Could Be My Son](https://blackrj.org/michael-brown-could-be-my-son-2/) - I woke up on Thanksgiving morning angry—very, very angry. Thanksgiving day is supposed to be a time to gather with family members, hug our children and laugh with our siblings. It is supposed to be a time to give thanks for all our blessings. But like so many other Black mothers, my Thanksgiving day was
- [The Irony of Choice as Roe turns 42](https://blackrj.org/the-irony-of-choice-as-roe-turns-42/) - Here we go again. This week, on the 42nd anniversary of Roe v Wade, U.S. House Republican leadership will send a bill to the floor for vote that is meant to restrict a woman’s right to safe, legal abortion care. HR. 7 flies in the face of the reality that federal insurance coverage of abortion
- [Vote Like Your Health Depends On It](https://blackrj.org/vote-like-your-health-depends-on-it/) - The 2014 midterm elections are tomorrow. Either through early voting, absentee ballots or at polling places on November 4, citizens across the country will cast votes for candidates who will have the state, local or federal constitutional power to make policies that could affect all of our lives. Interestingly, this election cycle has a record

## Pages

- [Home](https://blackrj.org/) - Amplifying and lifting the voices of Black women leaders to secure sexual and reproductive justice for Black women, girls, and gender-expansive people.
- [Narrative Power for Justice](https://blackrj.org/narrative-power-for-justice/) - Shaping the stories that shape our lives, our policies, and our futures. Narrative Power for Justice is an initiative of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproducive Justice Agenda dedicated to advancing Reproductive Justice through narrative, cultural strategy, and storytelling. We focus on the stories that influence public understanding, policy decisions, and collective imagination
- [Creators for Change Council: Building Narrative Power in Real Time](https://blackrj.org/narrative-power-for-justice/creators-for-change-council/) - We are in a moment where culture is being shaped in real time—and too often, the narratives about Black women are defined without us. At In Our Own Voice, we believe that must change. That’s why we launched the Creators for Change Council—a cohort of influential Black content creators partnering with us to advance Reproductive
- [Next Generation Leadership Institute](https://blackrj.org/getinvolved/next-generation/) - Next GenerationLeadership InstituteYour Voice. Your Power. Your Future. Empowering the next wave of Reproductive Justice advocates, one HBCU campus at a time. LEARN MORE "The Next Generation Leadership Institute is dedicated to equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools, resources, and skills they need to advance Reproductive Justice." ABOUT THE PROGRAM Cultivating Reproductive
- [2026 NGLI Application](https://blackrj.org/2026-ngli-application/) - 2026 Next Generation Leadership Institute ApplicationEquipping the Next Generation of Reproductive Justice Leaders The Next Generation Leadership Institute is looking for the next wave of HBCU leaders to champion the fight for Reproductive Justice and bodily autonomy. This two-year, paid fellowship will help you build essential skills to create lasting change on your campus and
- [Telling Better Stories: A Creator’s Guide for Reproductive Justice Storytelling](https://blackrj.org/narrative-power-for-justice/creators-guide-for-reproductive-justice-storytelling/) - Telling Better Stories: A Creator’s Guide for Reproductive Justice Storytelling Stories do more than entertain or inform. They shape how people understand care, dignity, autonomy, safety, and justice. Too often, narratives about Black women center crisis without context, strength without softness, or struggle without care. These incomplete portrayals shape not only culture, but also how
- [State Policy Priorities](https://blackrj.org/state-policy-priorities/) - 2026 State Policy & Advocacy PrioritiesThe Black-women-led state organizations we lead our work with include: Black Women for Wellness Black Women’s Health Imperative New Voices for Reproductive Justice SisterLove, Inc. SisterReach, Inc. SPARK Reproductive Justice NOW! Women With a Vision The Wisdom Institute Birth in Color RVA The New Jersey Black Women Physicians Association Oshun
- [In The News](https://blackrj.org/news-room/in-the-news/) - In Our Own Voice is Making Change – and Headlines New Research Identifies Stories Missing From Media, According To Black Women5/30/26 – On May 29th, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda released new qualitative research introducing Narrative Demand™, an emerging concept from its Narrative Power for Justice Initiative (NPJI), to understand
- [Introducing Narrative Demand](https://blackrj.org/narrative-power-for-justice/introducing-narrative-demand/) - Introducing Narrative Demand™An emerging concept from the Narrative Power for Justice Initiative exploring the gap between dominant narratives and the stories that remain underrepresented, distorted, or absent in culture and media. Narratives shape more than representation. They influence whose experiences are believed, whose humanity is recognized, what receives public support, and what society views as
- [Fact Sheets](https://blackrj.org/resources/fact-sheets/) - Accessible, action-oriented resources that break down the issues impacting Black women, girls, and gender-expansive people. These fact sheets translate complex policy and data into clear insights to support advocacy, storytelling, and decision-making. Black Maternal Health as Reproductive Justice Issue Black women and birthing people in the United States (U.S.) have unacceptable and inequitable maternal and
- [Federal Policy Priorities](https://blackrj.org/legislative-priorities/) - 2026 Federal Policy & Advocacy Priorities Medicaid Coverage Access to Medicaid coverage continues to be an ongoing challenge, leaving millions of Americans at risk of losing their health care coverage. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that when all the changes included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA) are implemented, 16 million people will
- [From Storyboards to Statutes: How Narrative Power Is Reshaping Black Maternal Health](https://blackrj.org/narrative-power-for-justice/from-storyboards-to-statutes/) - L–R: Nicole Jefferson Asher, Mara Brock Akil, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, and Supervisor Holly Mitchell connect ahead of the panel, grounding the conversation in shared purpose and perspective. In the wake of Black Maternal Health Week, leaders across policy, media, and movement spaces gathered in Los Angeles for a timely conversation about how storytelling shapes outcomes
- [Advocacy in Action](https://blackrj.org/policy-advocacy/advocacy-in-action/) - Your Voice Has PowerFrom emailing Congress to sharing on social media, small actions create big change. Use our action alerts to connect directly with lawmakers and mobilize your community. Every message, call, and post builds power.Action Alerts Protect Our Right to Vote → Tell Congress to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and
- [Policy and Operations Associate](https://blackrj.org/about-us/job-opportunities/policy-and-operations-associate/) - TITLE: Policy and Operations Associate SCALE LEVEL: Associate PROGRAM: Government Affairs Division SUPERVISOR: Director, Policy & Advocacy SALARY: $68K – $73K START DATE: TBD 2026 ORGANIZATIONAL DESCRIPTION: In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda is the only national Black women’s reproductive justice organization. Our mission is to increase and highlight the leadership
- [Honoring a Champion for Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/honoring-a-champion-for-black-maternal-health-and-reproductive-justice/) - In Our Own Voice honors Congresswoman Robin Kelly with the 2025 Reproductive Justice Champion Award on Capitol Hill. At a time when Black women, girls, and gender-expansive people face escalating attacks on bodily autonomy, healthcare access, and economic security, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda gathered on Capitol Hill to celebrate
- [Honoring the Reproductive Justice Leaders of the 119th Congress](https://blackrj.org/honoring-the-reproductive-justice-leaders-of-the-119th-congress/) - This page now redirects here: Honoring the Reproductive Justice Leaders of the 119th Congress
- [Issue Brief: From Lived Experience to Narrative Power: The Structural Context That Shapes How Stories Are Received](https://blackrj.org/narrative-power-for-justice/how-lived-experience-determines-narrative-authority/) - How Black women’s lived experiences shape narrative power, representation, and justice—and why narrative infrastructure is essential to lasting change.
- [Programs & Training](https://blackrj.org/programs-training/) - What We OfferNext Generation Leadership Institute (NGLI) Our flagship leadership development program for HBCU students, the Next Generation Leadership Institute builds the skills needed to advance Reproductive Justice. Through training, mentorship, and direct engagement with national movement leaders, fellows are prepared to lead across advocacy, policy, research, and cultural change. Learn more about the Next
- [The Impact Lounge at Sundance: Panel on Reproductive Health and Storytelling](https://blackrj.org/narrative-power-for-justice/the-impact-lounge-at-sundance-panel-on-reproductive-health-and-storytelling/) - From Plan A, B, to C: Reproductive Justice, Narrative Infrastructure, and the Stories Shaping Our Future L–R: Vicki Shabo, Regina Davis Moss, Jess Jacobs, and Humza Syed in conversation about narrative, power, and care. In January 2026, Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda,
- [Programs & Training 2025 Annual Report](https://blackrj.org/programs-training-2025-annual-report/) - Programs & Training 2025 Annual Report is Now Live! “The past year demanded more from us than ever before—2025 was a year that called for boldness, resilience, and the unwavering belief that change is possible, even in the face of adversity. What we achieved together is nothing short of extraordinary. Amidst unprecedented political turbulence, our
- [Representation in Film and Media: Centering Our Stories, Advancing Our Justice](https://blackrj.org/narrative-power-for-justice/representation-in-film-and-media-centering-our-stories-advancing-our-justice/) - How Black Storytellers Are Shaping Culture, Policy, and Possibility Dr. Regina Davis Moss (center) moderates “Representation in Film and Media: Centering Our Stories, Advancing Our Justice” at the Building Reproductive Justice Power Brunch on Martha’s Vineyard. As attacks on Black history, bodily autonomy, and truth-telling intensify across the country, who controls our stories — and
- [Survey Brief: Black Audiences on Representation: Visibility, Treatment, and Power](https://blackrj.org/narrative-power-for-justice/black-audiences-on-representation-visibility-treatment-and-power/) - What Black Communities Say About Representation in Culture and Media Stories shape what we believe is normal, who we see as deserving of care, and how we understand power. For Black communities, representation in media is not just about visibility. It is about dignity, fairness, and justice. In October 2025, In Our Own Voice released
- [The State of Black Women & RJ](https://blackrj.org/policy-advocacy/the-state-of-black-women-rj/) - In Our Own Voice and our strategic partners are fighting for quality healthcare and access; economic stability; comprehensive sex education; clean air and water; safety from violence and the ability to live the life we want for ourselves and our families. Take a journey with us through our interactive data map to learn how national
- [Our Experts](https://blackrj.org/our-experts/) - Contact One of Our Experts Dr. Regina Davis Moss is the President & CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda and the In Our Own Voice Action Fund. She has more than 20 years of experience in the public, non-profit, and political sectors; and has dedicated her entire career to
- [Toolkits](https://blackrj.org/resources/toolkit/) - The Reproductive Justice Community Guide & Workbook is designed to spark conversation, deepen understanding, and move people toward meaningful engagement with the Reproductive Justice movement. Grounded in Black feminist values, this resource centers the lived experiences of Black women, girls, and gender-expansive people while offering practical tools for learning, organizing, and building community power. What’s
- [In Our Own Voice is 10 years old!](https://blackrj.org/10-years/) - In Our Own Voice is 10 years old! On October 13, 2014, five Black women’s Reproductive Justice organizations came together to uplift the voices of Black women Reproductive Justice leaders on issues impacting the lives of Black women, girls and gender expansive people. Today, we’re proud to have grown to 12 partners including a nation-wide
- [Job Opportunities](https://blackrj.org/about-us/job-opportunities/) - Open Positions Policy and Operations Associate
- [Our Staff & Board](https://blackrj.org/about-us/our-staff-and-board/) - Regina Davis Moss, PhD, MPH, MCHES President & CEO Evelyn Laurencin Vice President, Finance Donna Morris Senior Director of Administration Giovanteey Bishop, MSA Director of Programs & Training Bridgette N. Jackson Director of Policy Veronica Hughes Director of Finance & Human Resources Camille Kidd Senior Manager of Federal Policy Araba Aidoo-Apau Manager of State Policy
- [Reproductive Justice Community Guide & Workbook](https://blackrj.org/resources/toolkit/reproductive-justice-community-guide-workbook/) - This workbook is designed to spark conversation, deepen understanding, and move people toward meaningful engagement with the Reproductive Justice movement.
- [State Polling](https://blackrj.org/resources/state-polling/) - In 2025, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda commissioned PerryUndem to conduct a new survey, “The Lives and Voices of Black Adults Across 10 States.” This research explores how Black communities are navigating the changing policy environment under the new administration and identifies the top issue areas impacting Black adults in
- [Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda](https://blackrj.org/blackrjpolicyagenda/) - The 2025 Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda offers the solutions that the United States needs.Over 50 Black-led organizations and activists have collaborated to create this comprehensive roadmap to protect and uplift Black women, girls, and gender-expansive people. Our last RJ Policy agenda was published in 2023, during a time when the country was on a
- [Our Partners](https://blackrj.org/about-us/our-partners/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda is a Reproductive Justice partnership of eight Black women’s Reproductive Justice organizations: Black Women for Wellness (BWW), started by a group of Black women concerned about the health and well-being of black babies, is a woman-centered, community-based organization offering a multi-generational approach to building health and wellness
- [Policy Reports](https://blackrj.org/resources/policy-reports/) - 2025 Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda POLICY AS POWER: Providing a Path Toward Black Reproductive Justice Over 50 Black-led organizations and activists have collaborated to create this comprehensive roadmap to protect and uplift Black women, girls, and gender-expansive people. Project 2025: The Impact on Black Women: Project 2025 will have devastatingly harmful impacts to Reproductive
- [Contact Us](https://blackrj.org/contact-us/) - Our Contact Information In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda 700 13th St., NW Suite #301 Washington, DC 20005 Phone: 202-545-7660 E-mail: info@blackrj.org For media relations, please email inourownvoice@berlinrosen.com.
- [IOOV Responds to President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress - redirect](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-responds-to-president-trumps-state-of-the-union-address/) - https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-responds-to-president-trumps-state-of-the-union-address/
- [Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/our-causes/reproductive-justice/) - Reproductive Justice (RJ) means the human right to control our sexuality, our gender, our work, and our reproduction. That right can only be achieved when all women and girls have the complete economic, social, and political power and resources to make healthy decisions about our bodies, our families, and our communities in all areas of
- [NGLI 2024 Annual Report](https://blackrj.org/ngli-2024-annual-report/) - The Programs & Training Department is proud to present the Next Generation Leadership Institute’s 2024 Annual Report, capturing a full year of programmatic achievements, student-focused initiatives, and key milestones in our efforts to uplift Reproductive Justice. This report highlights our Next Generation Leadership Institute fellows’ dedication and the impactful strides they have made toward advancing
- [Mission, Goals, & Strategies](https://blackrj.org/about-us/mission-goals-strategies/) - Our Unique Value In Our Own Voice is the only network of organizations that are led by Black women and focused on Black women, offering an amplified collective voice advocating for Reproductive Justice. Our lived experience and trust of the communities on whose behalf we fight every day gives us unique perspectives and contributions. That
- [Our HERstory](https://blackrj.org/about-us/herstory/) - How In Our Own Voice began In 2014, five visionary Black women’s Reproductive Justice organizations – Black Women for Wellness (CA), Black Women’s Health Imperative (national), New Voices Pittsburg (OH & PA), SisterLove (GA) and SPARK Reproductive Justice Now! (GA) – joined forces to form In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda,
- [About Us](https://blackrj.org/about-us/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda is a national-state partnership that amplifies and lifts the voices of Black women leaders to secure sexual and reproductive justice for Black women, girls, and gender-expansive people. Our eight strategic partners are Black Women for Wellness, Black Women’s Health Imperative, New Voices for Reproductive Justice,
- [Our Staff](https://blackrj.org/our-staff/) - This page redirects to https://blackrj.org/about-us/our-staff-and-board/
- [Get Involved](https://blackrj.org/getinvolved/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda provides an avenue for Reproductive Justice activists to amplify the work we do at the national, state and regional levels to advance the issues that impact the lives of Black women, femmes, and girls. For us, Reproductive Justice is the human right to control our
- [Take Action](https://blackrj.org/take-action/) - You are leaving In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda By clicking “GO” below, you will be directed to a website operated by an independent In Our Own Voice Action Fund 501(c)(4) entity. You will be redirected to: https://blackrjaction.org/ GO NOT YET
- [Statewide Survey: Virginia](https://blackrj.org/resources/state-polling/statewide-survey-virginia/) - In 2024, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda commissioned Perry Undem to conduct a survey “The Lives and Voices of Black Families in 2024”. The PDF below shows the results from a statewide survey of Black Women voters in Virginia.
- [Statewide Survey: Texas](https://blackrj.org/resources/state-polling/statewide-survey-texas/) - In 2024, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda commissioned Perry Undem to conduct a survey “The Lives and Voices of Black Families in 2024”. The PDF below shows the results from a statewide survey of Black Women voters in Texas.
- [Statewide Survey: Tennessee](https://blackrj.org/resources/state-polling/statewide-survey-tennessee/) - In 2024, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda commissioned Perry Undem to conduct a survey “The Lives and Voices of Black Families in 2024”. The PDF below shows the results from a statewide survey of Black Women voters in Tennessee.
- [Statewide Survey: Pennsylvania](https://blackrj.org/resources/state-polling/statewide-survey-pennsylvania/) - In 2024, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda commissioned Perry Undem to conduct a survey “The Lives and Voices of Black Families in 2024”. The PDF below shows the results from a statewide survey of Black Women voters in Pennsylvania.
- [Statewide Survey: Ohio](https://blackrj.org/resources/state-polling/statewide-survey-ohio/) - In 2024, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda commissioned Perry Undem to conduct a survey “The Lives and Voices of Black Families in 2024”. The PDF below shows the results from a statewide survey of Black Women voters in Ohio.
- [Statewide Survey: Michigan](https://blackrj.org/resources/state-polling/statewide-survey-michigan/) - In 2024, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda commissioned Perry Undem to conduct a survey “The Lives and Voices of Black Families in 2024”. The PDF below shows the results from a statewide survey of Black Women voters in Michigan.
- [Statewide Survey: Louisiana](https://blackrj.org/resources/state-polling/statewide-survey-louisiana/) - In 2024, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda commissioned Perry Undem to conduct a survey “The Lives and Voices of Black Families in 2024”. The PDF below shows the results from a statewide survey of Black Women voters in Louisiana.
- [Statewide Survey: Georgia](https://blackrj.org/resources/state-polling/statewide-survey-georgia/) - In 2024, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda commissioned Perry Undem to conduct a survey “The Lives and Voices of Black Families in 2024”. The PDF below shows the results from a statewide survey of Black Women voters in Georgia.
- [Statewide Survey: California](https://blackrj.org/resources/state-polling/statewide-survey-california/) - In 2024, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda commissioned Perry Undem to conduct a survey “The Lives and Voices of Black Families in 2024”. The PDF below shows the results from a statewide survey of Black Women voters in California.
- [Southern Polling Webinar Briefings](https://blackrj.org/resources/polling-research/southern-polling-webinar-briefings/) - In December 2019, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda commissioned the polling firm of Perry/Undem to survey Black women in 7 states across the South on issues dealing with reproductive health, rights and justice. The results of each were presented in a series of webinars In Our Own Voice co-hosted, along
- [Contraceptive Equity](https://blackrj.org/our-causes/contraceptive-equity/) - Ninety-nine percent of women, who are of reproductive age, have used or are using contraception. That statistic shows the wide acceptance of contraceptives in American society. Access to safe, effective and affordable contraceptives is essential to the health and well-being of women and their families. According to the National Women's Law Center, the Court's decision,
- [Donate](https://blackrj.org/donate/) - In Our Own Voice | National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda is a non-profit 501(c)(3). Your tax-deductible gift will support the work In Our Own Voice does at the federal, state, and regional levels. Please support our activities by making a donation today. You can donate online: CLICK HERE TO DONATE! Or you can mail a
- [Manager of State Policy](https://blackrj.org/about-us/job-opportunities/manager-of-state-policy-previous/) - TITLE: Manager of State Policy SCALE LEVEL: Manager PROGRAM: Government Affairs Division SUPERVISOR: Director of Policy & Partnerships SALARY: $73K - $81K START DATE: April 1, 2023 ORANIZATIONAL DESCRIPTION: In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda is the only national Black women’s reproductive justice organization. Our mission is to increase and highlight
- [Press Releases](https://blackrj.org/news-room/press-releases/) - 24Jun 26In Our Own Voice Responds to the Fourth Anniversary of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health OrganizationNATIONWIDE — Dr. Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, released the following statement marking the fourth anniversary of the…Read more03Jun 26In Our Own Voice Releases Narrative Demand™, New
- [National Polling](https://blackrj.org/resources/polling-research/) - Economic Issues and Reproductive Autonomy Among Top Voter Concerns for Black Families in the 2024 Election and Beyond Black women are a decisive force in elections, yet very little survey research exists reflecting our needs, values, and perspectives. Most public opinion polls lack large numbers of participants from Black communities, which prevents breaking down the
- [The Next Generation Leadership Institute](https://blackrj.org/nextgeneration/) - READ MORE Our Fellows In ActionMenstrual Products for Middle Schoolers event planned by Dillard University Fellows Amaya Ronczyk and Kalaya Sibley. Amaya Ronczyk and Kalaya Sibley suited up in their I AM A VOTER swag and, sharing why they’re voters with their social media networks. Transgender Remembrance Day Candle Vigil, planned by Hampton University Fellow
- [I am a Reproductive Justice voter](https://blackrj.org/rjvoter/) - I am a Reproductive Justice voter Together we are strong, bold, fearless – and we have a lot of work to do that we can’t do without people like you. When you sign up with In Our Own Voice, you are joining a movement that is committed to uplifting the voices of Black women leaders
- [Our Causes](https://blackrj.org/our-causes/) - Policy Change Black women’s* lives are rich and complex — our experiences matter. For us, Reproductive Justice is the human right to control our bodies, our sexuality, our gender, our work, and our reproduction. That right can only be achieved when all women and girls have the complete economic, social, and political power and resources
- [Abortion Rights](https://blackrj.org/our-causes/abortion-rights/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda believes that the decision about whether to become a parent, when and under what circumstances is a deeply personal decision best left to a woman. It is important that all women are able to make their own decisions about when and whether to become a
- [Our Work](https://blackrj.org/our-work/) - Our Work includes… Our Causes What We Care About Reproductive Justice Abortion Rights Voting Rights Contraceptive Equity Comprehensive Sex Education The Next Generation Leadership Institute
- [Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda](https://blackrj.org/blackrjpolicyagenda-3/) - Re-Imagining Policy: In Pursuit of Black Reproductive Justice In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda presents the 2023 Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda “Reproductive Justice (RJ) is the human right to maintain personal bodily autonomy, have children, not have children, and parent the children we have in safe and sustainable communities.” More
- [Newsletters](https://blackrj.org/news-room/newsletters/) - Previous newsletters December 2021 November 2021 October 2021 September 2021 August 2021 July 2021 June 2021 May 2021 April 2021 March 2021 February 2021 January 2021 December 2020 November 2020 October 2020 August 2020 July 2020 June 2020 May 2020 April 2020 March 2020 February 2020 January 2020
- [News Room](https://blackrj.org/news-room/) - The In Our Own Voice News Room includes… Press Releases In The News In Our Own Voice Blog Newsletters Our Experts For media relations, please email inourownvoice@berlinrosen.com.
- [Policy & Advocacy](https://blackrj.org/policy-advocacy/) - Advocacy for Reproductive Justice In Our Own Voice is the leading voice for Black women’s Reproductive Justice policy and advocacy. We lead the way in the fight to secure Reproductive Justice for all Black women, girls, and gender-expansive people. In coordination with our state partners, we work with key decisionmakers to shape public policy to
- [Resources](https://blackrj.org/resources/) - Take a deeper dive into Reproductive Justice with research material from In Our Own Voice. Our fact sheets, policy reports, and polling data provide expert analysis and relevant information.
- [Voting Rights](https://blackrj.org/our-causes/voting-rights/) - Reproductive Justice can only be achieved when Black women, girls, and gender-expansive individuals can vote as equal citizens of the United States, freely, and without voter suppression—finally making the rights enshrined in the 14th, 15th and 19th Amendments of the Constitution a reality. The right to vote is a fundamental component of democracy. Black Americans’
- [Social Media](https://blackrj.org/news-room/social-media/) - Follow In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda on social media to stay informed on the latest news and upcoming events.
- [The Black Reproductive Justice Pledge](https://blackrj.org/blackrjpledge/)
- [In Our Own Voice State Enhancement Initiative: Request for Proposals](https://blackrj.org/in-our-own-voice-state-enhancement-initiative-request-for-proposals/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda has launched a new State Enhancement Initiative to provide organizational development and capacity-building grants to emerging Black-founded and Black-led Reproductive Justice organizations. We are issuing a Request for Proposals to participate in this new Initiative. Applications are due by 11:59 PM EST on December 31, 2021. Please
- [Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda](https://blackrj.org/blackrjpolicy/) - Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda releases Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda (PDF) “Reproductive Justice (RJ) is a collective framework grounded in human rights and Black Feminist theory that centers the intersectional impact of race and gender in one’s ability to live free from individual-, community-,
- [Reproductive Justice Week of Action 2021](https://blackrj.org/rjwoa21/) - The time to listen to Black women is long overdue. It is time to heed our needs. It is time to enforce our fundamental rights. It is time to hear our voices! Sept. 27 — October 1, 2021, marks Black Reproductive Justice Week of Action (RJWOA) 2021: An Agenda to Shift Policy and Change Culture
- [The Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda](https://blackrj.org/the-black-reproductive-justice-policy-agenda/) - Read the full Policy Agenda and urge Congress to show their support.
- [Comprehensive Sex Education](https://blackrj.org/our-causes/comprehensive-sex-education/) - Comprehensive sex education is effective at assisting young people to make healthy decisions about sex and to adopt healthy sexual behaviors. Sexuality education is a lifelong process of acquiring information and forming attitudes, beliefs, and values. It encompasses sexual development, sexual and reproductive health, interpersonal relationships, affection, intimacy, body image, and gender roles. "school-based sexuality
- [Giving to RJ](https://blackrj.org/give/) - SUPPORT OUR EMERGENCY COVID RELIEF FUND Polls have closed, but our work activating our communities through advocacy and our partners’ activism on the ground has not finished. As we approach Giving Tuesday—a global generosity movement unleashing people and organizations’ power to transform their communities and the world—we’re relying on supporters like you. With your support,
- [Support In Our Own Voice this Giving Tuesday](https://blackrj.org/giving/) - This year, Black women have seen blatant attacks on our rights—from abortion access to voter suppression—and In Our Own Voice has held firm in our mission of lifting up the voices of Black women, femmes, queer, trans and gender non-conforming people, and youth to advance Reproductive Justice for all. This Giving Tuesday, we hope that
- [Next Generation News](https://blackrj.org/news-room/next-generation-news/) - 27Jan 25Celebrating a Year of Growth and Impact!Check Out the 2024 Annual Next Generation Leadership Institute Report As we usher in the new year, the Programs and Training Department at In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's…Read more19Apr 24Springing Forward: Celebrating the Next Generation Leadership Institute’s Graduation RetreatAs the flowers bloom and the air fills
- [Black Women's Health Imperative](https://blackrj.org/about-us/our-partners/bwhi/) - Black Women's Health Imperative The Black Women's Health Imperative (Imperative) is the only organization devoted solely to advancing the health and wellness of America's 20 million Black women and girls through advocacy and public policy, health education, research and leadership development. Founded as the National Black Women's Health Project in 1983 by health activist and
- [New Voices Pittsburgh](https://blackrj.org/about-us/our-partners/nvp/) - New Voices Pittsburgh New Voices Pittsburgh is a bold, grassroots organization that uses a Reproductive Justice framework to organize and build a social change movement dedicated to the health and wellbeing of Black women and girls through leadership development, human rights advocacy and social change activism. Founded in 2004, New Voices Pittsburgh has served and
- [Sisterlove](https://blackrj.org/about-us/our-partners/sisterlove/) - SisterLove, Inc. SisterLove, Inc. is a 25 year-old reproductive justice organization with a focus on sexual health and prevention/care, including HIV, STIs, unintended pregnancy and violence. Founded in 1989, SisterLove is the oldest nonprofit in the Southeastern U.S. dedicated specifically to the education, prevention, advocacy and support needs of women at risk for or living
- [SPARK Reproductive Justice Now](https://blackrj.org/about-us/our-partners/sparkrj/) - SPARK Reproductive Justice Now SPARK Reproductive Justice Now Formerly Georgians for Choice, Spark Reproductive Justice Now! is a reproductive justice organization based in Atlanta, GA, with a combined twenty-seven years of advocating for just policies to protect and expand access to abortion, family planning options, and sexual health education. Importantly, SPARK ensures the perspective and
- [Add Your Voice](https://blackrj.org/getinvolved/add-your-voice/)
- [Chapter Application](https://blackrj.org/getinvolved/chapter-application/) - Our application will be online soon...
- [Support](https://blackrj.org/getinvolved/support/) - Our Support info is coming soon…
- [Tell Your Story](https://blackrj.org/getinvolved/tell-your-story/) - In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda activism needs you. We want to know about your RJ work in your organizations, on your campuses and in your communities. Let us hear from you at info@blackrj.org Send us your video for the website Write a blog on Reproductive Justice Send us your photos
- [Privacy Policy](https://blackrj.org/privacy-policy/) - Our Online Privacy Policy In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda (blackrj.org or In Our Own Voice) is a project of Communications Consortium Media Center (CCMC). The Communications Consortium Media Center is dedicated to protecting your privacy and the personal information that you provide to us when using this website. We will
- [Our Voices Speakers Bureau](https://blackrj.org/our-voices-speakers-bureau/) - Details to be announced.
- [#IAMAVOTER  Social Media Campaign](https://blackrj.org/iamavoter/) - Throughout Black History Month, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda is celebrating progressive Black Women leaders — past and present — who played a crucial role in advancing voting rights for Black Women with our #IAMAVOTER campaign. From Shirley Chisholm to Stacey Abrams. the #IAMAVOTER campaign will uplift stories from the
- [#WhenBlackWomenLead](https://blackrj.org/whenblackwomenlead/) - Throughout Women’s History Month, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda is celebrating and highlighting Black women’s leadership with our #WhenBlackWomenLead campaign. We will feature Black women leaders and their accomplishments every week, from across time periods and social movements. From Fannie Lou Hamer to Sherrilyn Ifill, from the Washing Society to
- [Registration Submitted](https://blackrj.org/registration-submitted/) - Thank you for submitting your registration. You will receive a confirmation email soon.
- [The Facts](https://blackrj.org/the-facts/) - Pro Life? Not After Birth. What did Rep. Duffy say? “I hear a lot in this institution from minority leaders about how their communities are targeted. But what I don't hear them talk about is how their communities are targeted in abortion.” “There is a targeting going on in a lot of spaces and a lot
- [Black Women for Wellness](https://blackrj.org/about-us/our-partners/bww/) - Black Women for Wellness Based in Los Angeles, California, Black Women for Wellness is a multi-generational, membership-based organization committed to the well being of Black women and girls by building healthy communities through health education, empowerment and advocacy. BWW is committed to elevating the lived experiences of Black women and girls in California. Our mission
- [All Post](https://blackrj.org/all-post/)
- [Sample Page](https://blackrj.org/sample-page/) - This is an example page. It's different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this: Hi there! I'm a bike messenger

## Items

- [Annell Ponder](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1214) - Annell Ponder was an educator and social worker who became the directing the Citizenship Education Program in Mississippi for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). Ponder was severely beaten by police in Mississippi when she began taking down the license plate numbers of officers who harassed her and others for trying ot eat at a
- [Carol McDonald](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1212) - Carol McDonald is the Founder and CEO of Meridian Solutions, a consulting firm dedicated to creating lasting social change. For 20 years Carol has lead campaigns rooted in electoral politics, race equity and building inclusive organizations and public narratives.
- [Atima Omara](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1210) - Atima Omara is the founder and president of Omara Strategy Group — a D.C. metro based consulting firm which builds progressive political power and strives for a more representative democracy by helping elect progressive people of color, women and LGBTQ candidates.
- [Yvette Clarke](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1208) - Yvette Clarke is an activist and community organizer, and a member of Congress representing New Yorkers since 2006. She is also the Co-Chair of the Black Women & Girls Caucus, which develops programs to support the aspirations of African American women of all ages, and an At-Large member of the Congressional Black Caucus Executive Committee.
- [Zerlina Maxwell](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1206) - Zerlina Maxwell is the Senior Director of Progressive Programming for SiriusXM. She was formerly the Director of Progressive Media for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign. She worked in the campaign’s press shop pitching coverage to progressive media outlets and curating daily messaging for online influencers. She also acted as a campaign spokesperson for the Presidential Debates.
- [Lucy McBath](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1204) - Lucy McBath recently beat republican incumbent to represent Georgia's sixth congressional district. She became a gun control and racial justice activist when her son Jordan Davis was killed in 2012. After his death, she she became a national spokesperson for Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America and gave a speech at the 2016
- [Kimberly Peeler-Allen](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1202) - Kimberly Peeler-Allen has been working at the intersection of race, gender and politics for almost 20 years. Kimberly is the Co-founder of Higher Heights, a national organization building the political power and leadership of Black women from the voting booth to elected office. A highly skilled political fundraiser and event planner, Kimberly was the principal
- [DeJuana L. Thompson](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1200) - DeJuana L. Thompson is political strategist and voting rights trailblazer. With over 15 years of advocacy experience, She is created of Woke Vote, a mobilization effort that saw an unprecedented surge in civic engagement among millennial and faith based voters in Alabama. DeJuana was also a Senior Advisor in the US Small Business Administration and
- [Adrianne Shropshire](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1198) - Adrianne Shropshire is executive director of BlackPAC and the affiliated nonpartisan Black Progressive Action Coalition. She is a leader in developing model integrated voter engagement programs that build voter power over multiple election cycles.
- [LaTosha Brown](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1195) - LaTosha Brown is an award-winning organizer, philanthropic consultant, political strategist and jazz singer with over twenty years of experience working in the non-profit and philanthropy sectors on a wide variety of issues related to political empowerment, social justice, economic development, leadership development, wealth creation and civil rights. She is the co-founder of Black Voters Matter
- [Glynda Carr](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1193) - Political strategist and writer Glynda Carr is the co-founder of Higher Heights for America, the only national organization providing Black women with a political home exclusively dedicated to harnessing their power to elect Black women, influence elections and advance progressive policies. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Jessica L. Byrd](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1191) - Jessica Byrd founded Three Point Strategies in 2015 to provide a home for electoral strategy that centers racial justice and is transformational rather than transactional. Jessica has worked on campaigns in 43 states and you can find her at the side of the most exciting races to elect Black women in the country, training hundreds
- [Christin Battle](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1189) - Christin “Cici” Battle is the director of People For the American Way Foundation’s Young People For, the organization’s national leadership development organization for college-aged folks. Battle is a youth engagement expert that has developed and directed youth programs in local, state and international spaces. Battle is the first director of Young People For that has
- [Stacey Abrams](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1177) - Stacey Abrams's 2018 campaign for governor of Georgia turned more voters than any Democrat in Georgia history, including former President Barack Obama, and invested in critical infrastructure to build progress in the state. After witnessing the gross mismanagement of the election by the Secretary of State's office, Abrams launched Fair Fight to ensure every Georgian
- [Marsha Johnson](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1072) - Marsha Johnson was a transgender Black woman, self-identified drag queen and outspoken LGBTQ rights activist who spearheaded the iconic Stonewall Inn uprising in 1969. She was a founding member of the Gay Liberation Front. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Monica Simpson](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1097) - Monica Simpson is the executive director of SisterSong, the women of color reproductive justice collective. She is a national organizer working on issues across the human rights spectrum. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Charlene Carruthers](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1095) - Charlene Carruthers is a Black and queer feminist and the national director of the Black Youth Project 100. She serves as a board member of SisterSong and awarded to “Movement Builder Award.” Her work and opinions on reproductive justice have been published across major national outlets. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Elle Hearns](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1093) - Elle Hearns is an LGBTQ activisit and writier who co-founded the Black Lives Matter Global Network and is the executive director of the Martha P. Johnson Institute. Her organization created the first-ever National Day of Action for Black Trans Women. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Didi Adiakpan](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1091) - Didi Adiakpan is a Nigerian youth organizer, who works on fighting against biphobia and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. She also works with the UndocuBlack network that provides resources for undocumented people of color. As a high schooler, she helped xspass a Employee Non-Discrimination Act in San Antonio, Texas. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Christina Mavuma](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1089) - Christina Mavuma is a trans rights activist that was born in Botswana. She works with the Rainbow Identity Association and Health lens to advocate for transgender immigrants and the specific barriers they face. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Angel Patterson](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1087) - Angel Patterson is a gender non-conforming femme activist from the Dominican Republic immigrating during the Cuban diaspora. They work Southerners On New Ground to fight for LGBTQ rights and reproductive justice. Learn more about their legacy.
- [Grace Lawrence](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1085) - Grace Lawrence is a Liberian transgender woman who was in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for three years. Her photojournalism documents the challenges the community faces as well as their beautiful diversity and strength. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Kemi Bello](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1083) - Kemi Bello is a Nigerian LGBTQ activist and immigration advocate. She serves as the communications manager of the Immigrant Legal Resource Center. She is a grassroots organizer and policy advocate for immigration rights. Learn more about her legacy.
- [CeCe McDonald](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1081) - CeCe McDonald is a Black bisexual and trans woman who rose to fame after she was charged with second-degree manslaughter for protecting herself against an attacker. This event sparked national outrage and began her career as an activist outspoken against transphobia and racism. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Raquel Willis](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1079) - Raquel Willis is a transgender rights activist and the Communications Associate and a national organizer for the Transgender Law Center. She is a thought leader and media personality whose work centers on amplifying the voice and visibility of transgender women of color. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Nadine Smith](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1077) - Nadine Smith is an LGBT activist and has been the executive director of Equality Florida since it was founded in 1997. She also served on the founding board of the International Gay and Lesbian Organization. She is a legislative lobbyist and activist. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Sharron Cooks](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1075) - Sharron Cooks was the first transgender person in the United States to Chair a City Commission in Philadelphia. She chaired the Mayor’s Commission on LGBT Affairs. She was voted off as a chair and resigned due to her social media activism. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Janet Mock](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1073) - Janet Mock is a transgender trailblazer, author, media mogul and cultural icon. She is a Marie Claire contributor and former editor of People. She produced "The Trans List," which was a major milestone in trans visibility. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Marcela Howell](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1070) - Marcela Howell is our founder and executive director. She has over 40 years of experience organizing and advocating for reproductive justice. Howell spent this past year touring the country and bringing attention to a critical report produced by her organization on the state of Black women. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Deon Haywood](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1068) - Deon Haywood is the executive director of Women with A Vision in New Orleans, a community-based nonprofit, founded by a grassroots collective of African American women. Haywood has worked as a human rights defender and advocate for poor women, Black women and queer women in the deep South. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Marsha Jones](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1066) - Marsha Jones is cofounder and executive director of The Afiya Center, a Texas-based reproductive justice organization centered around the experiences of Black women and dedicated to strategically addressing harmful reproductive health and abortion policies. Jones has been a national expert and media source on how the health care system fails Black mothers. Learn more about
- [Krystal Redman](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1063) - Dr. Krystal Redman is the executive director of SPARK Reproductive Justice Now, which is raising awareness for Transgender women of color. In midst of the oppressive political climate, Dr. Redman organized regular actions and trainings for volunteers, organizers and field outreach to spark direct and effective resistance. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Cherisse Scott](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1061) - Cherisse Scott is the founder and CEO of SisterReach in Memphis, the only reproductive justice organization in the state of Tennessee. She used her experiences being deceived by a fake clinic, known as “crisis pregnancy centers,” to create an organization dedicated to the reproductive needs of Black women. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Dazon Dixon Diallo](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1059) - Dazon Dixon Diallo is the founder and CEO of SisterLove, Inc in Atlanta, the the first women’s organization dedicated to HIV and AIDS, as well as Reproductive Justice, in the southeastern United States. Dazon is also a member of In Our Own Voice! Learn more about her legacy.
- [La’Tasha D. Mayes](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1057) - La’Tasha D. Mayes is the executive director of New Voices for Reproductive Justice and a national thought leaders on reproductive health, LGBTQ+ issues and intersectionality. She also serves on the board of directors for Groundswell, the largest funder of the Reproductive Justice movements in the United States. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Janette Robinson Flint](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1055) - Janette Robinson Flint is the executive director of Black Women for Wellness. She has been a community activist and health advocate for Black women and girls for over thirty years and serves on the African American Studies Community Advisory Committee at University of California, Los Angeles. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Toni Bond Leonard](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1053) - Toni Bond Leonard is a religious and women’s rights scholar and one of the founding mothers of the reproductive justice movement, helping coin the phrase. She served as the executive director of Black Women for Reproductive Justice. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Loretta Ross](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1051) - Loretta Ross is a feminist organizer, rape survivor and one of the founding mothers of the original reproductive justice movement. She is the founding executive director of SisterSong, the national women of color reproductive justice collective based in the South. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Dorothy Roberts](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1049) - Dorothy Roberts is the social justice activist who wrote “Killing the Black Body: Race, Reproduction and the Meaning of Liberty,” which is regarded as a seminal work in the reproductive justice movement. She teaches and writes on reproductive health and bioethics. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Byllye Avery](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1047) - Byllye Avery founded the Black Women’s Health Project in 1981, which is known today as the Black Women’s Health Imperative, and has spearheaded national activism to impact policy and ensure the health and wellbeing of Black women and girls. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Recy Taylor](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1045) - In 1944, Recy Taylor was kidnapped and raped by a group of white men. Despite their confessions, her abusers faced no charges. Taylor refused to be silenced. The NAACP sent a rape investigator, Rosa Parks to help her. Her story sparked national protests and marked a catalytic turning point in the early civil rights movement.
- [Women of African Descent for RJ](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1043) - The term “Reproductive Justice’ (RJ) was conceptualized in 1994 by twelve Black women who are now known as the founding mothers of the RJ movement. They called themselves the Women of African Descent for RJ. They are Toni Bond Leonard, Cynthia Newbille, Rev. Alma Crawford, Loretta Ross, Evelyn Field, Elizabeth Terry, Terri James, Winnette P.
- [Donna Brazile](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1040) - Donna Brazile was the first Black woman to run a major presidential campaign as Vice President Al Gore’s campaign manager. She also served as chair of the Democratic National Committee’s Voting Rights Institute. As a highly-sought after political strategist and Democratic leader, she has worked on several high-profile campaigns. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Laverne Cox](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1038) - Laverne Cox is an actor and transgender activist who made television history as the first openly transgender person to be nominated for an Emmy. Her role as Sophia Burset on “Orange is the New Black” has provided groundbreaking visibility and representation for trans women. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Mary Jackson](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1036) - Mary Jackson was NASA's first Black female engineer and subject of the movie “Hidden Figures.” As manager of the NASA Office of Equal Opportunity Program, Jackson worked to promote and hire more women and women of color leaders in the field of math and science. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Condoleezza Rice](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1034) - Condoleezza Rice was the first Black woman and second ever woman to be appointed Secretary of State. Her professional career has been defined by “firsts” and barrier breaking as the first Black woman National Security advisor, and the first woman and first African American provost of Stanford. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Yvonne Burke](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1032) - Yvonne Burke was the first Congresswoman to give birth while serving and to be granted maternity leave, a major victory for women’s rights in politics. Prior to that, she was the first Black woman elected to the California legislature and the first Black woman representative from California in Congress. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Melanie Campbell](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1030) - Melanie Campbell is the president and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation and convener of the Black Women’s Roundtable Public Policy Network, fighting for policies that will better our communities and working to get Black women elected across all levels of government. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Marian Anderson](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1026) - Marian Anderson was the first Black person to perform at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City on Jan. 7, 1955 and the first Black singer to be invited to perform at the White House during the Roosevelt administration. President Kennedy honored her with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She also worked as a delegate
- [Leontyne Price](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1024) - Leontyne Price is a soprano singer and was one of the first Black singers to become a lead at the Metropolitan Opera. She was given the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1964. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Dorothy Dandridge](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1022) - Dorothy Dandridge was the first Black woman to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. Her role in the all-black cast of the musical Carmen Jones was an international phenomena. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Misty Copeland](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1020) - Misty Copeland was the first Black principal dancer of the American Ballet Theatre. Dancing her way out of poverty, Copeland made dance history while practicing en pointe within just three months of her first professional class, a feat thought previously impossible. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Hattie McDaniel](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1018) - Hattie McDaniel was the first Black actor to win an Academy Award as Best supporting actress for her role as “Mammy” in the 1939 classic “Gone with the Wind.” Before that historic win, she was the first Black woman in the United States to sing on the radio and a community activist. Learn more about
- [Michelle Obama](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1016) - Michelle Obama is a lawyer, author, public speaker and the first Black First Lady of the United States. As first lady, she spearheaded public health and educational campaigns to combat national health crisis. Today, she is a feminist warrior, progressive thought leader and cultural icon. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Ruth Simmons](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1014) - Ruth Simmons became the first Black president of an Ivy League school and Brown University’s first woman president in 2001. She is the current president of and the first woman president of Prairie View A&M University. She restructured Brown’s admissions policy to ensure income equality. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Ursula Burns](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1012) - Ursula Burns is the CEO of Xerox and the first Black woman to head a Fortune 500 company. Forbes put her at the 22nd most powerful woman in the world in 2014. She served as the head of the Obama administration and a leader on the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program. Learn more
- [Andrea Jenkins](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1010) - Andrea Jenkins is the first openly transgender Black woman to be elected to public office in the United States. Winning a Minneapolis City Council seat, Andrea has been active in her community, working against youth violence and working towards LGBT equality and neighborhood improvement. She is also a poet! Learn more about her legacy.
- [Oprah Winfrey](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1008) - What else can be said about Oprah? She’s a media mogul, actor and talk show host, producer and philanthropist. The Oprah Winfrey show was the highest-rated television show of its category. Born into poverty, Winfrey worked to become the first Black woman host of a national talk show and self-made first Black woman billionaire, and
- [Serena Williams](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1006) - Serena Williams is an athletic household name. As a top professional tennis player and entrepreneur, Williams has won the second-most titles in the Women’s category. Creating the Serena Williams Fund and the Williams Sisters Fund, she has used her platform to advocate for education rights, racial equality and reproductive justice. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Cathy Hughes](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1004) - Cathy Hughes is an entrepreneur and the founder of Radio One, which is the largest “Black-owned and operated broadcast company” in the United States. She was the first Black woman to lead a publicly-traded corporation. Her mission is to give Black communities an outlet for their stories. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Karen Bass](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=1002) - Karen Bass represents California’s 37th Congressional District in the House of Representatives. She is the second ever woman and third Black person to serve as Speaker of the California State Assembly. Elected to congress in 2010, Bass has advocated strongly for gun control. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Madam C.J. Walker](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=999) - Madam C.J. Walker was the first woman to become a self-made millionaire in the United States. She created a unique line of hair care products specifically for Black hair, eventually forming her own cosmetic company targeted for Black women. Her fortune was defined by philanthropy as she donated the largest amount of money ever given
- [Bessie Coleman](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=997) - Bessie Coleman was first Black women and the first Native American woman to earn a pilot’s license. After being denied admission into U.S. flying schools, she taught herself French and moved to the country to attend the prestigious Caudron Brother's School of Aviation, specializing in stunt flying. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Inez Barron](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=995) - Inez Barron is the a member of the New York City Council, representing the 42nd district in Brooklyn, and a former member of the state assembly. She is a New York Public School educator and longtime community organizer whose activism has helped empower East Brooklyn residents against poverty, violence and gentrification. Learn more about her
- [Latoya Cantrell](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=993) - Latoya Cantrell was elected the first woman mayor of New Orleans — in a history spanning three centuries — and is taking office in 2018. As a former city council member, her leadership in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina were crucial for the community’s recovery efforts. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Cynthia McKinney](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=991) - Cynthia McKinney was the first Black woman to be elected to represent Georgia in the U.S. House of Representatives, serving six terms. In 2008, she ran for President as the Green Party candidate. She was a prominent civil rights activist. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Susan Rice](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=989) - Susan Rice was the United States National Security Advisor under President Obama, a UN ambassador, and served on the National Security Council during the Clinton administration. She designed and implemented U.S. foreign policy strategy throughout the 2000s. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Patricia Roberts Harris](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=987) - Patricia Roberts Harris was the first Black woman ever to hold a Cabinet position, nominated by President Jimmy Carter as the U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, as well as the United States Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare (which would become Health and Human Services under her leadership). Under President Johnson, she served
- [Constance Baker Motley](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=985) - Constance Baker Motley was the first Black woman appointed to the federal judiciary, first woman Borough President of Manhattan in New York City, and first Black woman in the New York State Senate. Early in her career, she was an assistant attorney to the famed Thurgood Marshall and worked on the landmark case Brown v.
- [Sheila Jackson Lee](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=983) - Sheila Jackson Lee is the current U.S. representative for Texas’s 18th Congressional District in central Houston, elected in 1995. She is a member of three congressional committees, including Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget. She has worked on critical legislation for education, prison and workers reform. Learn more about her legacy. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Carol Moseley Braun](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=981) - In a long list of firsts, Carol Moseley Braun was the first Black woman senator, first Black Democratic senator, first woman ever to be elected over an incumbent U.S. senator and the first female senator from Illinois. Her tenure as a public servant was defined by her calls for reform across progressive issue areas. She
- [Barbara Jordan](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=979) - Barbara Jordan was the first Black woman elected as a Texas state senator. Jordan was the also the first southern Black woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and first to deliver a DNC keynote. Her famous opening statement at President Nixon’s impeachment trial was a testament to her commitment to justice. Learn more
- [Shirley Chisholm](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=977) - In 1968, Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman to be elected to Congress, representing New York’s 12th Congressional District. She also was the first Black person to run for the Democratic presidential ticket. As a lifelong activist and feminist, Chisholm fought for social equality and the empowerment of Black communities. Learn more about her
- [Maxine Waters](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=975) - Maxine Waters is a U.S. Representative for California’s 43rd Congressional District, and a member and previous chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, working on progressive legislation and racial justice initiatives. Waters famously refused to be silenced on the floor of Congress and continues to reject the silencing of Black women, teaching us all to “reclaim
- [Kamala Harris](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=973) - Kamala Harris was elected California’s third female U.S. senator and the state’s first Jamaican and Indian, as well as the second Black woman to serve in the U.S Senate. She has committed her life to civil service and to moving the country forward with legislation focused on criminal justice reform. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Combahee River Collective](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=970) - The Combahee River Collective was a Black feminist lesbian organization active in Boston in the 70s and 80s. The Collective was instrumental in calling out the white feminist movement for lack of inclusivity, as one of the first groups with an intersectional message. They challenged the Black nationalism movements, creating a revolutionary platform based in
- [Wagatwe Wanjuki](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=968) - Wagatwe Wanjuki is an activist on the issue of campus sexual assault. Her advocacy has been focused in urging university administrations to stop viewing campus violence and sexual assault as a public relations issue, but rather a safety and human rights issue. She founded Survivors Eradicating Rape Culture and is a founding co-organizer of Know
- [Malika Saada Saar](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=966) - Malika Saada Saar is Google's senior counsel on Civil and Human Rights and the former director of the Human Rights Project For Girls, which is focused on ending gender-based violence. She was named one of “150 Women Who Shake the World” by Newsweek and the Daily Beast and she served on the Presidential Advisory Council
- [Jamia Wilson](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=964) - Jamia Wilson is a writer, commentator and feminist activist. She serves as the executive director and publisher of Feminist Press at the City University of New York, the first woman of color to lead the organization. Wilson is the author of “Young, Gifted and Black,” a children’s book featuring 52 Black leaders. Learn more about
- [Angela Rye](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=962) - Angela Rye is the CEO and principal of IMPACT Strategies. She also is a CNN political commentator and analyst, focusing on Black women’s economic empowerment and political involvement. She sits on the boards of the Congressional Black Caucus Institute, Congressional Black Caucus Political Action Committee, Seattle University School of Law Alumni and Women in Entertainment
- [Yara Shahidi](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=960) - Yara Shahidi is an activist and actor, who currently stars on the primetime hit series “Black-ish. She uses her platform to advocate for women’s equality and representation for Black women and girls on screen and behind-the-scenes. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Amandla Stenberg](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=958) - Amandla Stenberg is an actor who burst onto the activist scene with her high school video, “Don’t Cash Crop On My Cornrows.” She uses her platform to advocate for intersectionality. She was named one of the "Feminist Celebrities of the Year" in 2015 by the Ms. Foundation for Women. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Michaela Angela Davis](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=956) - Michaela Angela Davis is a writer and cultural analyst who serves on the board of Black Girls Rock! She is also the leader of “Mad Free,” a community platform dedicated to reshaping the perception of women in the media. She was the fashion and beauty editor at Essence, where she famously styled Anita Hill on
- [Tamika D. Mallory](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=954) - Tamika D. Mallory is the co-chair of the Women’s March, a Black Lives Matter activist and an advocate for gun control, women’s rights, health care and ethical police conduct. She is a recipient of the BET Shine A Light Award and the founder of Mallory Consulting. Mallory also served on New York City Mayor de
- [Linda Goler Blount](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=952) - Linda Goler Blount is the president and CEO of Black Women’s Health Imperative, which is dedicated solely to advancing the health of Black women and girls through education and leadership development. She was the first vice president of health disparities for the American Cancer Society. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Eleanor Hinton Hoytt](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=950) - Eleanor Hinton Hoytt is the former president and CEO of Black Women’s Health Imperative, which is dedicated to advancing the health of Black women and girls through education and leadership development. She received the National Institutes of Health Keystone Award for Women’s Research Advocacy and the NAACP’s Thurgood Marshall Legacy Award. Learn more about her
- [Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=948) - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a Nigerian writer. Her work has been transformative for the modern discourse on feminism in the 21st century. Her TEDx talk, “We should all be feminists,” has been deemed a milestone in intersectional feminist theory, and was sampled in Beyonce’s hit song, “Flawless.” Learn more about her legacy.
- [Maria M. Stewart](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=946) - Maria M. Stewart was an abolitionist and women’s rights advocate. She was the first woman to lecture to an audience of both white and Black people, as well as the first Black woman to give a public lecture on political issues. She was a published writer — even though she was largely self-educated. Learn more
- [Tarana Burke](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=944) - Tarana Burke coined the phrase “Me Too” to raise awareness of the pervasiveness of sexual abuse and assault in society. She created Just Be Inc., a nonprofit organization that helps victims of sexual harassment and assault. Burke was one of the group of “Silence Breakers” named Time Magazine’s 2017 Person of the Year. Learn more
- [Faye Wattleton](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=942) - Faye Wattleton was the first African American and youngest person to serve as president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. A longtime reproductive health advocate, Wattleton founded the Planned Parenthood Action Fund, which organizes grassroots campaigns and legislative and electoral actions to promote women’s reproductive justice. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Lugenia Burns Hope](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=940) - Lugenia Burns Hope became one of the first Black social workers and founded the Neighborhood Union, in 1908, which provided education, training, medical care and social services to Atlanta’s Black communities. She was also a founder of the Atlanta branch of the National Association of Colored Women. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Fannie Barrier Williams](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=938) - Fannie Barrier Williams helped create the National Association of Colored Women and the NAACP. She campaigned for social and educational reform to empower Black women in the South. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Mary Talbert](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=936) - Mary Talbert was a civil rights leader who focused on political strategies to unify Black women. She was the first Black woman assistant principal of Little Rock High School. She helped to organize the Niagara Movement, which led way to the NAACP. She served as president of National Association of Colored Women. 8 branches of
- [Gertrude Bustill Mossell](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=934) - Gertrude Bustill Mossell was an educator and writer who encouraged women to read women’s suffrage history and articles on women’s rights to seek their own empowerment. Her book “The Work of the Afro-American Woman” lifts up the achievements of Black women. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=932) - Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin was a trailblazer, who broke many barriers. The first African American to graduate from Harvard Law School, she also was elected to the Boston City Council and state legislature and she was Boston’s first African American municipal judge. She founded a national organization for Black women and was the editor of
- [Carrie Langston](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=930) - The daughter of a prominent civil rights activist and mother of famous poet, playwright and writer Langston Hughes, Carrie Langston was accomplished in her own right. She was a journalist and education rights activist. Langston also promoted women’s rights and equality. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Frances Ellen Watkins Harper](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=928) - Frances Ellen Watkins Harper was a founding member of the American Woman Suffrage Association, an incredible poet and orator. She helped found the National Association of Colored Women and served as its vice president. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Lottie Rollin](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=926) - Lottie Rollin, along with her sisters, had a major impact on South Carolina politics during the Reconstruction Era. She worked for the Robert Brown Elliott, a Black member of Congress. She also joined a national women’s suffrage organization and advocated for suffrage on the floor of the South Carolina House. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Angelina Weld Grimke](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=924) - A radical feminist in D.C. during the Harlem revolution, Angelina Weld Grimke wrote for several journals including Margaret Sanger’s “Birth Control Review.” She also was one of the first Black women to have a play performed in public. Her literary works often exposed the pain and violence in Black women’s lives. Learn more about her
- [Anna Julia Cooper](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=922) - Anna Julia Cooper was a prominent Black author and teacher. She wrote the book “A Voice From the South by a Black Woman of the South,” widely recognized as one of the first Black feminist texts. She was born into slavery and championed women’s rights by emphasising the key to uplifting Black people was in
- [Flo Kennedy](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=920) - Feminist and civil rights activist Flo Kennedy founded the Feminist Party. After being denied admission at Columbia law, she threatened a lawsuit and was accepted as the only Black woman in her class. Kennedy was an early proponent of intersectionality, noting that “we have a pathologically, institutionally racist, sexist, classist society.” Learn more about her
- [Mary Ann Shadd](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=918) - Mary Ann Shadd — writer, educator, lawyer and abolitionist — founded Canada’s first anti-slavery newspaper, The Provincial Freeman. She was the first Black woman publisher in North America. She was also the second Black woman in the U.S. to earn a law degree. Learn more about her legacy.
- [The Forten Sisters](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=916) - The Forten Sisters — Margaretta Forten, Harriet Forten Purvis and Sarah Forten Purvis — were part of one of the most prominent and wealthy Black families in Philadelphia. Together, they founded and financed six abolitionist organizations, including the Philadelphia Anti-Slavery Society. Learn more about their legacy.
- [Sojourner Truth](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=914) - Sojourner Truth was born a slave and escaped slavery to become a prominent abolitionist and suffragist. She was the first Black woman to successfully sue a white man to regain custody of her enslaved child. Her “Ain’t I a woman?” speech defined the intersection of racial and gender oppression. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Anita Hill](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=912) - Anita Hill is a U.S. attorney who accused then-U.S. Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment. She bravely faced the all-white, all-male Senate Judiciary Committee’s brutal grilling. Outrage at her treatment resulted in a record number of women being elected to Congress in 1992, dubbed "the Year of the Woman." Learn more about her
- [Mary McLeod Bethune](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=910) - The daughter of former slaves and lifelong champion for women’s equality, Mary McLeod Bethune served as president of the National Association of Colored Women and founded organizations like the National Council of Negro Women, the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute which later became Bethune Cookman College. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Mary Church Terrell](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=908) - Mary Church Terrell was a suffragist, the first president and cofounder of the National Association of Colored Women and a charter member of the NAACP. She was also one of the first Black women to earn a college degree. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Dorothy Height](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=906) - Dorothy Height was the president of the National Council of Negro Women for forty years through the civil rights era. She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom as well as the Congressional Gold Medal for her leadership in women’s rights. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Maya Wiley](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=902) - Maya Wiley was a civil rights activist and former board chair of the NYC Civilian Complaint Review Board. She served as a Mayor’s counsel, working for to Bill de Blasio in New York CIty. She founded and served as president of the Center for Social Inclusion, worked for the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund
- [Augusta Thomas](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=900) - Augusta Thomas is the National vice president for Women and Fair Practices at AFGE’s National Convention. As a union organizer, Thomas was one of AFGE’s original district fair practices coordinators. The Augusta Thomas Humanitarian Award is named after her for her commitment to racial equality and economic justice. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Lucy Parsons](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=898) - Lucy Parsons was a labor organizer, anarchist and key leader in the Socialist Labor Party. As a founder of the International Working People’s Association, Parsons was one of the most effective and revered socialist labor organizers. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Jennifer Epps Addison](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=896) - Jennifer Epps Addison is the president and co-executive director of Center for Popular Democracy and CPD Action network. She is also the executive director of Wisconsin Jobs Now and spearheaded the coordination of the Fight for $15 campaign which elevated the national conversation about minimum wage. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Mechelle Vinson](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=894) - Mechelle Vinson lawsuit against Capital City Federal Savings Bank redefined sexual harassment litigation. It was the first of its nature to be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court. For the first time in history, sexual harassment was defined as illegal. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Diane Williams](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=892) - Diane Williams worked as a public information specialist at the U.S. Justice Department. She was was fired after rejecting sexual advances from her boss. Her case was instrumental to a 1976 court ruling that established “quid-pro-quo” sexual harassment is gender discrimination. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Paulette Barnes](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=890) - Paulette Barnes worked as a payroll clerk at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In 1977, she sued for sexual harassment. Barnes v. Costille is a little-known, but landmark case that established the groundwork for protections against sexual harassment in the workplace. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Alice Goff](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=888) - Alice Goff is the president of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 3090 in Los Angeles, representing over 22,000 workers in California. Under her direction, the union has excelled in protecting human rights. Learn more about her legacy.
- [The Washing Society](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=886) - The Washing Society formed in 1881, when a group of Black washerwomen decided to go on strike in protest of inhumane wages and working conditions. The Washing Society canvassed door to door, growing from 20 to 3,000 strikers. Their work not only improved wages and conditions, but established Black women as an integral part of
- [Maryland Freedom Workers](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=884) - The Maryland Freedom Workers formed when 20 Black working class women came together and quit their jobs at the Lincoln Nursing Home in Maryland. They got in touch with the Congress of Racial Equality and sparked the formation of the Maryland Freedom Workers Local No. 1 union. With 90 percent of membership being Black women,
- [Mary Moultrie](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=882) - Mary Moultrie was a hospital worker and strike leader, her organizing leadership was critical in establishing Local 1199B of the Hospital and Healthcare Workers’ Union. She devoted her life to labor work and fighting for human rights. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Alzada Clark](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=880) - Alzada Clark was a leader of the United Furniture Workers of America (UFW) and recognized today as one of the most effective organizers of the labor movement. Braving constant threats and backlash, she was the first Black women organizer of state employees and established the local Service Employees International Union. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Hattie Canty](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=878) - Hattie Canty rose was a hotel maid in Las Vegas whose leadership in advocating against the rampant racism and sexism in the industry, lead her to be elected leader in the Las Vegas Culinary Workers’ Union and later president of Local 226. The union organized one of the longest-lasting strikes in U.S. history. With her
- [Sue Cowan Williams](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=876) - Sue Cowan Williams was and educator and the plaintiff in the iconic case against the Little Rock School District. She represented Black teachers, challenging a salary policy that allowed the district to discriminate based on skin color. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Velma Hopkins](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=874) - Velma Hopkins worked to mobilize 10,000 workers on the streets of Winston-Salem, North Carolina as part of her efforts to unionize the R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. That union, led mainly by Black women, became the Local 22 of the Food, Tobacco, Agricultural and Allied Workers of America-CIO and revolutionized the intersection of workers rights,
- [Rosalyn Pelles](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=872) - Rosalyn Pelles is former labor organizer and retired director of the Civil, Human and Women’s Rights Department of the AFL-CIO. She was a major leader in North Carolina’s Forward Together Moral Movement and the Black Radical Congress. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Alicia Garza](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=870) - Alicia Garza is a co-founder of #BlackLivesMatter and the Special Projects Director at the National Domestic Workers Alliance. Garza is a leading media voice, having organized around issues of healthcare, education rights, police brutality and much more in addition to leading on domestic workers issues She recently launched the Black Census Project. Learn more about
- [Dr. L. Toni Lewis](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=868) - Dr. L. Toni Lewis is on the chair and serves as the international vice president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Healthcare board in New York City. She was the national president of the Committee of Interns and Residents, which is the largest union of physicians in the SEIU. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Karen Lewis](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=866) - Karen Lewis is the president of Chicago Teachers Union (CTU). She ran the Caucus of Rank and File Educators (CORE) campaign, fighting the privatization of education. She lead a historical ten day strike of public school teachers. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Roxanne Brown](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=864) - Roxanne Brown is the assistant legislative director of United Steelworkers (USW). She has been a key figure in lobbying for USW issues in D.C. and expanding workers rights across the country. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Gloria T. Johnson](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=861) - Gloria Johnson was the president of the Coalition of Labor Union Women and vice president of the AFL-CIO. In that role, she served on the Women’s Committee of the International Conference of Free Trade Unions and was also the chair of the Standing Committee on Women’s Issues. She dedicated her entire life to labor rights.
- [Addie Wyatt](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=859) - Rev. Addie Wyatt was the first African American woman elected international vice president of a major union, the Amalgamated Meat Cutters Union. In addition to being a labor leader, she was a religious leader, civil rights leader and women’s rights leader. She was a founding member of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists and the
- [Mary McClendon](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=857) - Mary McClendon was the founder and president of Household Workers’ Organization in Detroit, working to improve wages, benefits and conditions for household workers and active member in advancing human rights for her community. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Geraldine Roberts](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=855) - Geraldine Roberts started the first domestic workers’ rights group in the postwar period. She was a domestic worker herself and a key organizer of the Household Technicians of America. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Dorothy Bolden](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=853) - Dorothy Bolden was the founder of the National Domestic Workers’ Union of America. She entered the domestic workforce at the young age of nine. She used her personal experiences with unfair labor practices to form the Domestic Workers Union in Atlanta, making life, wages and job conditions dramatically better for many generations of women. Learn
- [Johnnie Jackson](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=851) - Johnnie Jackson was president of the Chicago chapter of Coalition of Labor Union Women. She began her career advocating against unfair practices in the clothing factory she worked in and went on to be elected to the staff of the International Ladies Garment Workers Union. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Clara Day](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=849) - Clara Day was a founding member of and served as the national vice president of the Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW). She historically led a delegation of union members at the March on Washington. The CLUW continues to recognize her legacy and commitment to social justice with the Clara Day Award. Learn more about
- [Maida Springer-Kemp](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=847) - Known as “Mama Maida,” Maida Springer-Kemp was the first Black woman to represent the labor movement abroad as part of labor exchange trip to England. She worked in Africa for the AFL-CIO, advising unions and setting up training and educational programs. She was the Vice President of National Council of Negro Women for 10 years.
- [Eldica Riley](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=845) - Eldica Riley was a union organizer for Local 22 in New York City. She helped to form the Negro Labor Committee in 1935 and worked on the brutal frontlines against racial discrimination towards the Black industrial workforce. Her efforts laid the groundwork for the workers’ rights movement. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Rosina Tucker](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=841) - Born to former slaves, Rosina Tucker played a major role in organizing the first black labor union, Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters. At a hundred years old, she narrated a documentary about the creation of the union: Miles of Smiles, Years of Struggle. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Patrisse Cullors](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=837) - Patrisse Cullors is a co-founder of #BlackLivesMatter. She is also a prison abolitionist, self-described queer activist, performance artist, Fulbright scholar, sought-after public speaker and a NAACP History Maker. She founded Dignity for Power and was named a “Civil Rights Leader for the 21st Century” by the Los Angeles Times. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Laura Murphy](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=825) - As director of the American Civil Liberties Union’s Washington office, Laura Murphy is the first woman and first African-American to serve as the the ACLU’s chief liaison to the White House and Congress. She is also a member of the executive committee of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights and is chairperson of its Criminal
- [Bree Newsome](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=835) - Bree Newsome is best known for her act of civil disobedience, when she was arrested for taking down the Confederate flag from the South Carolina state house following a racially-motivated mass shooting at a local church. #FreeBree sparked a new conversation about the hateful history of the Confederacy memorialized by monuments across the country. Today,
- [Erica Garner](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=833) - The daughter of Eric Garner, who was choked to death by a police officer, Erica Garner became an important modern activist against police brutality. To raise awareness about the epidemic of police violence, she led biweekly marches to the place where her father was murdered. She later set up a foundation in his name, before
- [Opal Tometi](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=831) - Opal Tometi is a co-founder of #BlackLivesMatter and executive director of the Black Alliance for Just Immigration (BAJI). She is a Nigerian-American author, movement strategist and organizer. Tometi is a rising voice in a new generation of civil rights leaders. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Kimberlé Crenshaw](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=829) - Kimberlé Crenshaw is credited with coining the term intersectionality and is a developer of Critical Race Theory. Her work has been foundational in Black feminist theory. She currently teaches civil rights and constitutional law at University of California, Los Angeles and Columbia University. She co-founded the African-American Policy Forum and serves as its executive director.
- [Geneva Reed-Veal](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=827) - Geneva Reed-Veal is the mother of Sandra Bland, who was found hanged in a Texas jail under suspicious circumstances. She became an important advocate for police reform, speaking to congressional leaders as part of the first symposium for the Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls. She is recognized as one of the “mothers of
- [Sherrilyn Ifill](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=823) - Sherrilyn Ifill is the president and director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. Her famous cases include the landmark Voting Rights Act case, Houston Lawyers’ Association v. Attorney General of Texas, deciding that judicial elections fall under Voting Rights Act protections. Her book “On the Courthouse Lawn: Confronting the Legacy of Lynching in the 21st
- [Kristen Clarke](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=821) - Kristen Clarke is the president and executive director of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law. Formerly serving as the head of the Civil Rights Bureau for the New York State Attorney General’s Office and working at the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, her career has been defined by a commitment to
- [Marian Wright Edelman](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=819) - Marian Wright Edelman was a crucial legal advocate for African Americans during and after the Civil Rights Movement. She was a lawyer for the NAACP and the first Black woman to pass the bar exam in Mississippi. She is the founder of the Children’s Defense Fund, dedicating her life to the health and wellbeing of
- [Harriet Tubman](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=817) - Harriet Tubman, the famed “conductor” of the Underground Railroad, who led hundreds to freedom, was also an armed Union spy and nurse during the Civil War. After the war, she dedicated the remainder of her life to helping Black people create new lives after slavery and was at the organizing meeting of the National Association
- [Ida B. Wells](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=815) - Ida B. Wells was a journalist, abolitionist and feminist, who led an investigation into the horrors of lynching in the 1890s. Born a slave, she wrote editorials that challenged Jim Crow laws in the South. She published a pamphlet, “Southern Horrors,” which detailed her extensive research of widespread lynching trends. She was a founding member
- [Mamie Mobley](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=813) - Mamie Mobley was the mother of Emmett Till, who was lynched and violently murdered in Mississippi. Mobley became a key symbol in the civil rights movement when she insisted that her son’s casket remain open during his funeral service to make the world see the brutality of racism. She later published an autobiography called “The
- [Ruby Bridges](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=811) - Ruby Bridges was the first Black child to desegregate an all-white elementary school in the South. At the young age of six, she was escorted to school by four federal marshals every single day, while an angry mob shouted death threats and racial slurs. A lifelong civil rights activist, Bridges established The Ruby Bridges Foundation
- [Coretta Scott King](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=809) - Coretta Scott King was one of the most impactful women leaders of the human rights movement, working across issue areas in her dedication to social change. She was instrumental in the Montgomery Bus Boycott and helped pass the 1964 Civil Rights Act. King also advocated for international justice and freedom in Ghana and India. She
- [Claudette Colvin](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=807) - Prior to Rosa Parks’ more famous and iconic protest, Claudette Colvin refused to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, resulting in her arrest when she was just 15. She was also one of four plaintiffs in Browder v Gayle, which ruled that Montgomery’s segregated bus system was unconstitutional. Learn more about
- [Anna Arnold Hedgeman](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=805) - Anna Arnold Hedgeman was an organizer of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. She individually recruited 40,000 participants as one of the only women planners of the march. She was also a co-founder of the National Organization for Women and the first Black woman to serve in the cabinet of a New York
- [Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=803) - Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray was the first Black woman Episcopal priest and conceived the term “Jane Crow” to highlight the unique intersection of sexism and racism experienced by Black women. She initiated a 1938 campaign to attend the then all-white University of North Carolina. Her master’s thesis, “The Right to Equal Opportunity in Employment,” became
- [Ella Baker](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=801) - Ella Baker was a key leader in the NAACP, Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). She organized the Young Negroes Cooperative League in New York City and co-founded In Friendship, an organization that raised money to fight against Jim Crow laws in the Deep South. The Ella Baker Center for
- [Ruby Nell Sales](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=799) - Ruby Nell Sales was a civil rights activist and educator working on the Freedom Summer voter registration drive, when a fellow organizer stepped in front of a bullet that had been meant for her and was killed. As a result of the trauma, she was unable to speak for months. Undeterred, she worked for human
- [Mildred Bond Roxborough](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=797) - Mildred Bond Roxborough was the first woman to serve as director of programs for the NAACP. She later became director of development. She began her activist career in the civil rights movement at the early age of nine, when she sold subscriptions to the NAACP’s magazine. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Gwendolyn Zoharah Simmons](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=795) - Gwendolyn Zoharah Simmons was part of the Freedom Summer of 1964. She helped build freedom schools and libraries in Black communities in Mississippi. She went on to work for the National Council of Negro Women and fought for civil rights for decades to come. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Jo Ann Robinson](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=793) - Jo Ann Robinson was an educator and key leader of the Montgomery Bus Boycott. When Rosa Parks was arrested, Robinson created 35,000 handouts advocating for the boycott. She helped establish and was on the executive board of the Montgomery Improvement Association, which fought widespread discrimination in the city. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Daisy Bates](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=791) - Daisy Bates was a newspaper publisher and president of the Arkansas NAACP chapter. She played a critical role in documenting the battle within her state to bring an end to segregation and aided the Little Rock Nine. Her book, “The Long Shadow of Little Rock,” is a personal account of their struggle to integrate the
- [Amelia Boynton](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=789) - Amelia Boynton was the first African-American woman and the first Democratic woman candidate to run for Congress from Alabama. She was also a key figure in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches. She helped organize the civil rights protest that became known as “Bloody Sunday” after law officials brutally beat her and fellow activists. Learn
- [Diane Nash](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=787) - Diane Nash was a Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) organizer, who focused on student protests and campaigns. Nash helped coordinate and participated in the 1961 Freedom Rides across the South. She was honored with the Rosa Parks Award by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1965. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Kathleen Cleaver](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=785) - Kathleen Cleaver was the Black Panther Party’s national communications secretary and first female member of the decision-making team. She was a key organizer in the famed campaign to release Huey P. Newton from prison. She later became a law professor and was a civil rights activist her entire life. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Angela Davis](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=783) - Angela Davis is a political activist, academic, author and leader in the Black Panther Party. Davis was a prominent figure in counterculture activism and the Communist Party USA. She continues to advocate for gender equality, prison reform and racial justice, co-founding Critical Resistance, which seeks to end the prison industrial complex. Learn more about her
- [Elaine Brown](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=781) - Elaine Brown was the first and only woman to chair the Black Panther Party. As a Panther, Brown ran for City Council in Oakland, California twice. In the years since, she has been active in prison and education reform and juvenile justice, creating a nonprofit dedicated to educating impoverished children. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Elizabeth Keckley](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=779) - Elizabeth Keckley was a former slave who purchased her freedom by learning to make and sell dresses and became a highly sought after dressmaker in Washington, D.C. She was hired by First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln and become one of her closest friends. She published a book about the first family in 1868. Learn more
- [Susie King Taylor](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=777) - Born into slavery, Susie King Taylor attended two secret schools taught by Black women and learned how to read, using her education to empower the next generation. She was the first African-American to publicly teach formerly enslaved children and adults in Georgia. She was also the only Black woman to publish a memoir of her
- [Doris Derby](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=775) - As a Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) organizer, Doris Derby coordinated voter registration efforts, developed educational materials for literacy programs and produced a catalog of thousands of photographs documenting Black life. She helped organize SNCC’s New York office and was involved with the 1963 March on Washington. Learn more about her legacy.
- [Septima Clark](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=773) - Septima Clark was a teacher and activist. She created citizenship schools that were critical to enfranchising many Black people. She spearheaded education equality and equal rights organizations, leading groups such as the YWCA, Federation of Women’s Clubs, Council of Negro Women and the NAACP. She worked with the NAACP to get more Black teachers in
- [Rosa Parks](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=770) - Beyond her famous bus ride that sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, Rosa Parks was the NAACP secretary for 12 years and worked on cases of unfair treatment, brutality, sexual violence and lynchings. She is nationally recognized as the “mother of the modern day civil rights movement.” Learn more about her legacy.
- [Fannie Lou Hamer](https://blackrj.org/?mgi_=767) - Fannie Lou Hamer worked with the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) to organize the 1964 Freedom Summer voter registration drive for African Americans in Mississippi. She also co-founded the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and challenged segregation. Learn more about her legacy.

## Categories

- [Affordable Health Care](https://blackrj.org/category/obamacare/)
- [Human Rights](https://blackrj.org/category/human-rights/)
- [Abortion Rights](https://blackrj.org/category/abortion-rights/)
- [Comprehensive Sex Education](https://blackrj.org/category/comprehensive-sex-education/)
- [Contraception](https://blackrj.org/category/contraception/)
- [Media Relations](https://blackrj.org/category/media-relations/)
- [Press Release](https://blackrj.org/category/press-release/)
- [Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/category/reproductive-justice/)
- [Domestic Violence](https://blackrj.org/category/domestic-violence/)
- [Statement](https://blackrj.org/category/statement/)
- [Voting Rights](https://blackrj.org/category/voting-rights/)
- [Environmental Justice](https://blackrj.org/category/environmental-justice/)
- [Next Generation Leadership Institute](https://blackrj.org/category/next-generation-leadership-institute/)
- [RJWOA](https://blackrj.org/category/rjwoa/)
- [#LivingARJLife](https://blackrj.org/category/livingarjlife/)
- [Maternal Health](https://blackrj.org/category/maternal-health/)
- [Civil Rights](https://blackrj.org/category/civil-rights/)
- [Economic Justice](https://blackrj.org/category/economic-justice/)
- [Narrative Power in Action](https://blackrj.org/category/narrative-power-in-action/)

## Tags

- [Reproductive Justice](https://blackrj.org/tag/reproductive-justice/)
- [environmental justice](https://blackrj.org/tag/environmental-justice/)
- [clean water](https://blackrj.org/tag/clean-water/)
- [climate change](https://blackrj.org/tag/climate-change/)
- [COVID-19](https://blackrj.org/tag/covid-19/)
- [coronavirus](https://blackrj.org/tag/coronavirus/)
- [Congress](https://blackrj.org/tag/congress/)
- [police violence](https://blackrj.org/tag/police-violence/)
- [RJWOA 2020](https://blackrj.org/tag/rjwoa-2020/)
- [voting](https://blackrj.org/tag/voting/)
- [SCOTUS](https://blackrj.org/tag/scotus/)
- [health care](https://blackrj.org/tag/health-care/)
- [Supreme Court](https://blackrj.org/tag/supreme-court/)