Stand Up For Women's Health

Weekly News Roundup

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 15:10:44 -0400

Here are a few of the stories we’ve been paying attention to:

Local News:

After public uproar from women’s groups, Albany has mandated that health insurers do not deny women their choice of contraceptives: http://www.ny1.com/content/news_beats/political_news/157110/in-reversal—albany-now-supports-women-s-choice-of-birth-control?ap=1&MP4

PPNYC President, Joan Malin penned a Letter to the Editor in the NYT on the consequences of when Catholic and Secular hospitals merge: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/07/opinion/when-catholic-and-secular-hospitals-merge.html?_r=1

National News:

An opinion piece in WNYC asks whether using humor to win the public’s attention back from the right-wing’s divisive and sensational distractions is an effective method: http://www.wnyc.org/blogs/its-free-blog/2012/mar/05/opinion-laughter-legislation-and-war-women/

Mother Jones puts together a humorous flow chart to determine the pressing question of the week: “Are you a slut?” http://motherjones.com/mojo/2012/03/flow-chart-are-you-slut

Jezebel introduces the anti-abortion group that’s behind all the recent ultrasound laws: http://jezebel.com/5891386/meet-the-group-behind-all-those-crappy-ultrasound-laws

And BuzzFeed charts the uses of the word “Slut” during all mainstream media mentions within the past month: http://www.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeedpolitics/chart-the-great-slut-spike-of-2012

Mother Jones breaks down seven other states that have advanced mandatory transvaginal ultrasound bills in the last year: http://motherjones.com/mojo/2012/03/transvaginal-ultrasounds-coming-soon-state-near-you

Salon discusses the pro-choice reawakening: http://www.salon.com/2012/03/06/the_pro_choice_reawakening/

The Nation highlights Cecile Richards’s effective leadership strategy during the Komen defunding controversy: http://www.thenation.com/article/166670/genius-cecile-richards

Eesha Pandit of Feministing discusses why differentiating private vs. federal funding of contraceptive coverage does more harm than good: http://feministing.com/2012/03/07/sandra-fluke-and-the-birth-control-divide/

The Gender Across Borders blog hosted an event inviting bloggers to write for International Women’s Day: http://www.genderacrossborders.com/blogforiwd/

Mother Jones lists all the states that have proposed insane sex laws in response to overwhelming anti-abortion bills: http://motherjones.com/mojo/2012/03/birth-control-viagra-vasectomy-laws

An analysis from the Brookings Institution finds that birth control saves taxpayer money: http://www.wnyc.org/npr_articles/2012/mar/06/how-birth-control-saves-taxpayers-money/

A major study of nearly 10,000 women that’s under way in St. Louis provides a clue about what might happen when the birth control policy takes effect: http://abclocal.go.com/wtvd/story?section=news/national_world&id=8574901

State News:

The Arizona Senate passed a bill this week that gives doctors a free pass to not inform pregnant women of prenatal problems because such information could lead to an abortion: http://www.addictinginfo.org/2012/03/07/arizona-senate-passes-bill-allowing-doctors-to-not-inform-women-of-prenatal-issues-to-prevent-abortions/

Poll reveals voters want to keep Planned Parenthood in Texas Women’s Health Program: http://www.texastribune.org/texas-health-resources/abortion-texas/poll-voters-want-keep-planned-parenthood-whp/

And the NYT delves deeper into how the recent cuts to Texas’s Medicaid Women’s Health Program affect women individually: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/08/us/texas-womens-clinics-retreat-as-finances-are-cut.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&partner=rss&emc=rss

The Daily Beast explores the attacks on reproductive rights and how Planned Parenthood is fighting back in Texas: http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2012/03/04/planned-parenthood-under-attack-fighting-back-in-texas.html

The Utah Senate passed an abstinence only sex education bill which also prohibits talk of homosexuality in the classroom: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/03/07/utah-passes-bill-allowing_n_1326777.html

Virginia Governor, Bob McDonnell, signed into law controversial ultrasound bill: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-57392796-503544/virginia-gov-bob-mcdonnell-signs-virginia-ultrasound-bill/

Weekly News Roundup

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 16:37:24 -0500

National News:

One woman shares a personal story on having to make a life-changing decision: http://www.guernicamag.com/features/3535/ptacin_3_1_12/

Jezebel asks, “Why is it that, legally, only anti-choice professionals are believed to have a conscience? Can’t pro-choice people make moral decisions?” : http://jezebel.com/5889061/pro+choice-means-anti+conscience-and-other-bullshit-rules

The Senate defeated Sen. Roy Blunt’s amendment to allow employers to refuse to cover health services: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0312/73497.html#ixzz1nt4nPKS2

Just moments after Senators defeated the so-called Blunt Amendment, Rep. Tim Murphy accused Sebelius of lying about the administration’s rule requiring employers to provide birth control coverage: http://thinkprogress.org/health/2012/03/01/435719/gop-rep-on-birth-control-were-not-talking-about-scientists-im-asking-about-religious-belief/

Conservative radio host, Rush Limbaugh, lashes out at Georgetown University student, Sandra Fluke: http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2012/03/rush-limbaugh-sandra-fluke-a-slut-and-prostitute/

Sandra Fluke considers a lawsuit against Rush Limbaugh, and is encouraged by support from Congress members, women’s groups and President Obama: http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/03/02/birth-control-advocate-sandra-fluke-isn-t-scared-of-rush-limbaugh.html

Rush Limbaugh apologizes for his controversial comments on Georgetown University student, Sandra Fluke: http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/03/03/rush-limbaugh-apologizes-for-verbal-attack/?hp

State News:

Jezebel has a breakdown of recent state proposed anti-abortion laws from the past week: http://jezebel.com/5889998/your-depressing-digest-of-proposed-state-anti+abortion-laws

Alabama State Senator Clay Scofield changes proposed invasive ultrasound bill: http://thinkprogress.org/health/2012/02/28/433463/alabama-lawmaker-backs-down-waters-down-invasive-ultrasound-bill/

Salon reports on the controversial legislation in Alabama requiring women to have a transvaginal ultrasound before an abortion procedure: http://www.salon.com/2012/02/28/the_ultrasound_fallacy/singleton/

Virginia’s ultrasound bill passes the Senate: http://maddowblog.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/02/28/10532065-virginia-rolls-ultrasound-bill-forward

Texas currently has a similar bill to the one Virginia recently scrapped, all without making the mistake of spelling out the actual method: http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/news_columnists/o_ricardo_pimentel/article/Virginia-rejects-what-Texas-kept-hidden-3369002.php

Following controversy surrounding Virginia’s ultrasound bill, Pennsylvania House Republicans announced that a similar ultrasound bill will not go to the floor for a vote: http://www.msmagazine.com/news/uswirestory.asp?ID=13499

A bill making its way through the Washington state legislature would require insurers to cover abortion services, like it would any other medical procedure: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2017605785_abortion27m.html?prmid=4939

Georgia lawmakers are seeking to ban abortions after five months: http://www.myfoxny.com/dpps/news/ga-lawmakers-move-to-ban-abortions-after-5-months-dpgapx-20120229-kh_18298949

And in Oklahoma, hundreds of women gathered to protest a new personhood bill awaiting approval from the House, where it’s expected to pass: http://www.msmagazine.com/news/uswirestory.asp?ID=13502

Weekly News Roundup

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 16:10:21 -0500

Here are a few stories we’ve been paying attention to:

National News:

The American Independent covers an emerging trend for states to push women through crisis pregnancy centers’ doors as part of new legislation that increases waiting times and mandates pre-abortion ultrasounds: http://www.americanindependent.com/210920/the-rising-power-of-crisis-pregnancy-centers

Jon Stewart: Virginia bill turns women in popsicles: http://www.newser.com/story/140245/jon-stewart-virginia-bill-turns-women-into-popsicles.html

Seven US states filed a lawsuit to block the federal government’s requirement that religious organizations offer health insurance coverage that includes free access to contraception for women: http://www.myfoxny.com/dpps/news/seven-states-sue-to-block-contraception-mandate-dpgonc-km-20120223_18195737

According to a new poll, the majority of Americans like the idea of giving birth control to anyone who wants it: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0212/73198.html

The NYT reports that the rapid growth of Catholic hospitals limit access to reproductive health care: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/21/health/policy/growth-of-catholic-hospitals-may-limit-access-to-reproductive-care.html?_r=2

State News:

More than 1,000 people protested a number of bills targeted at limiting the rights of women in Virginia: http://www.therotundaonline.com/news/more-than-1-000-protest-for-women-s-rights-in-richmond-1.2791636?MMode=true

Amid public uproar that prompted Virginia’s governor to withdraw his support, the Virginia House passes an amended abortion bill: http://www.myfoxny.com/dpps/news/ultrasound-abortion-governor-dpgapx-20110222-to_18158758

Tom Suehs, the Texas HHS commissioner signed a rule that formally bans Planned Parenthood clinics and other “affiliates of abortion providers” from participating in the Texas’ Women’s Health Program: http://www.texastribune.org/texas-health-resources/abortion-texas/suehs-signs-rule-banning-abortion-affiliates/

A federal judge ruled that Washington state cannot require pharmacists to dispense emergency contraceptives to customers if doing so goes against their religious beliefs: http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/sns-rt-us-usa-contraceptives-courttre81k24w-20120221,0,1536031.story

Georgia House Democrats in the legislature expressed their disagreement with an anti-abortion bill by holding a hearing on their own “anti-vasectomy bill.”: http://jacksonville.com/news/georgia/2012-02-22/story/georgia-house-democrats-make-light-republicans-abortion-bill-vasectomy#ixzz1nhehCSk0

Political News:

Rick Santorum opposes prenatal testing: http://blogs.villagevoice.com/runninscared/2012/02/rick_santorum_o.php

The Huffington Post reveals that Santorum was a self-admitted pro-choice Republican until running for Congress: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/21/rick-santorum-abortion_n_1291634.html

For the election ahead, the Catholic contraception debate is still on the table: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204131004577235101592573614.html

And Ann Gerhart of The Washington Post asks, “Birth control as an election issue? Why?”: http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/birth-control-as-election-issue-why/2012/02/17/gIQASW6kPR_story.html

Weekly News Roundup

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:51:44 -0500

Here are a few of the stories we’ve been paying attention to:

Local News:

Bike New York includes PPNYC as one of its official charities

National News:

Gonorrhea may soon join the list of untreatable diseases

State Senator Constance Johnson of Oklahoma City tacks ‘Every Sperm is Sacred’ clause to Oklahoma’s personhood bill

Rick Santorum wins the Minnesota and Colorado caucuses, as well as a Missouri primary while defending his anti-contraceptive position

A new Guttmacher study reveals unintended pregnancy rates are linked to the proportion of women in the state who are uninsured and receiving Medicai d

Ron Paul believes victims of ‘honest rape’ should be offered abortions

An ongoing study shows ultrasounds have no impact on women seeking abortions

House GOP memo argues, “Abortion is the leading cause of death in the black community”

State News:

A Texas judge has ruled that its legal for women seeking abortions to be required to look at a sonogram first

The South Dakota House Committee voted against a bill that would have banned crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs) from engaging in false advertising

And a Washington judge will rule on emergency contraception law

Birth Control Mandate:

President Obama abruptly abandons his stance on previous birth control mandate ruling

Although some Catholic leaders are still unsatisfied with the compromise

Rick Santorum doesn’t agree with the mandate or compromise because birth control is “affordable”

But birth control costs more than you think

Mother Jones has a quick reality check on just how widespread contraception use is for the majority of American women

Three U.S. senators pen an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal about why the birth control mandate makes sense

Eight Senate Democrats and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee launched an online petition themed “One Million Strong for Women”

Mother Jones covers the Republican war on contraception

And a new bill introduced by Senator Marco Rubio could cut off birth control coverage for millions of women who receive it through their health plans

Weekly News Roundup

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:41:00 -0500

Here are a few of the stories we’ve been paying attention to:

National News:

Pfizer recalls 1 million packets of birth control pills because of a packaging error:http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/health/NATL-Pfizer-Recalls-1M-Birth-Control-Packs-138474524.html
Meanwhile, Plan B is offering a $5 coupon on its website for any woman affected by the recall:http://www.metro.us/newyork/national/article/1086210—in-wake-of-birth-control-recall-plan-b-offers-coupon
And the NPR dispels some myths about Plan B: http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2012/02/06/146358069/the-morning-after-pill-how-it-works-and-who-uses-it
The NYT explores the recent ruling on contraception by the Obama Administration and its effects on students and employees attending Catholic colleges and institutions:http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/30/health/policy/law-fuels-contraception-controversy-on-catholic-campuses.html?_r=1
Women’s rights groups launches campaign to save birth control from Catholic bishops: http://msmagazine.com/blog/blog/2012/01/31/hervotes-blog-carnival-no-religious-exemption-for-birth-control-coverage/
House Speaker John Boehner calls the new birth control insurance requirement unconstitutional and demands immediate reconsideration: http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/national_world&id=8529091
And Mitt Romney slams President Obama’s contraception ruling despite making an identical decision as governor in 2005: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/30/mitt-romney-birth-control_n_1241849.html
Rick Santorum criticizes the Obama administration for reducing federal funding for abstinence only programs: http://thinkprogress.org/health/2012/01/25/411382/santorum-obama-defunded-abstinence-programs-because-he-wants-people-to-be-in-poverty/?mobile=nc
Ron Paul believes victims of ‘honest rape’ should be offered abortions: http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2012/02/04/ron-paul-tells-piers-morgan-only-honest-rape-merits-abortion/
A new animal study reveals that a couple zaps to the testicles might be the future of contraception for men: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/testicle-zap-future-birth-control/story?id=15472917
Sen. Janet Howell proposes an amendment that requires men to undergo additional medical procedures before getting a prescription for erectile dysfunction in response to ultrasound requirement before an abortion: http://www.myfoxny.com/dpps/news/senate-rejects-ultrasound-requirement-dpgapx-20120130-sv_17509237
A new survey concludes that strong majorities of Latino registered voters supported access to legal abortion:http://latinainstitute.org/Latinopoll
The Washington Post details how Roe v. Wade changed abortion rights in 9 graphs:http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/ezra-klein/post/slideshow-how-roe-v-wade-changed-abortion-rights/2011/08/25/gIQA2p6XLQ_blog.html
Several letters to the NYT challenges Ross Douthat’s recent Op-Ed, which claimed that the majority of Americans are anti-choice: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/07/opinion/what-americans-think-about-abortion.html?scp=4&sq=abortion&st=cse

State News:

A Virginia Senate voted against a bill that would have banned abortions at 20 weeks and would impose criminal penalties on doctors: http://www.msmagazine.com/news/uswirestory.asp?ID=13448
In Texas required delay between sonogram and abortion creates frustrating consequences: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/29/us/required-delay-between-sonogram-and-abortion-creates-logistical-issues-in-texas.html
Austin city council members passed an ordinance requiring crisis pregnancy centers to detail services: http://www.dailytexanonline.com/news/2012/02/01/city-ordinance-requires-pregnancy-crisis-centers-detail-services
Kansas lawmakers will vote on a bill that would require doctors to inform women of the wholly unfounded potential breast cancer risks associated with abortion: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/06/kansas-anti-abortion-bill_n_1258185.html?ref=politics

Susan G. Komen Foundation Reverses its Decision to Cut Funding to Planned Parenthood!

After national public outcry, Komen reverses direction: http://video.msnbc.msn.com/mitchell-reports/46255153/#46254942
The NYT also covers the reversal: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/04/health/policy/komen-breast-cancer-group-reverses-decision-that-cut-off-planned-parenthood.html?_r=1&hp
And MSNBC discusses Komen’s reversal decision with PPFA President Cecile Richards: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/46243184/ns/health-womens_health/#.TyxvxVxSTLA
PPFA President Cecile Richards and PPNYC CEO Joan Malin are grateful for the reversal: http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2012/02/03/after-public-backlash-komen-reverses-position-will-support-planned-parenthood/
But Komen’s quick reversal raises questions: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032619/#46258539
Now the Komen Foundation has revised its funding policy: http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/economy/komen-revises-funding-policy/2012/02/03/gIQAVRa3mQ_story.html?hpid=z1
In the wake of the Komen controversy politics and health should be kept separate: http://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Keep-politics-health-separate-2999666.php
The Washington Post explores Planned Parenthood’s road to victory for funding with Komen and Congress: http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/what-planned-parenthood-wins-in-funding-fights-with-komen-and-congress/2012/01/31/gIQA79nHnQ_story.html
Politico: How Susan G. Komen May Have Helped Obama On Contraception Fight http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0212/72426.html
Great editorial in Mercury News on how the Komen turnabout proves the power of protest: http://www.mercurynews.com/opinion/ci_19889835
U.S. Senator Patty Murray says attacks on women’s health “Not Over”: http://www.seattlepi.com/local/connelly/article/Komen-backs-down-but-attacks-on-women-s-health-2998800.php
Gail Collins pens an Op-Ed in the NYT on the Komen controversy and its aftermath: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/04/opinion/collins-the-politics-of-absolutely-everything.html
Salon explores how Komen’s decision to pull funding from Planned Parenthood gave new life to women’s health advocacy: http://www.salon.com/2012/02/04/susan_g_komen%E2%80%99s_priceless_gift/singleton/
And it was covered in The Nation: http://www.thenation.com/article/166072/why-komenplanned-parenthood-breakup-while-it-lasted-was-good-feminism
Mayor Michael Bloomberg pledged $250,000 to Planned Parenthood: http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/02/02/bloomberg-to-give-250000-to-planned-parenthood/
LIVESTRONG joins Mayor Bloomberg with donation to Planned Parenthood Cancer Services Fund http://blog.livestrong.org/2012/02/03/livestrong-joins-mayor-bloomberg-with-donation-to-planned-parenthood/
And lastly, in the wake of the decision Planned Parenthood raises $3 Million in three days: http://gothamist.com/2012/02/04/planned_parenthood_raised_3_million.php

Weekly News Roundup

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 20:02:02 -0500

Here are a few of the stories we’ve been paying attention to:

National:

Breaking: the HPV vaccine does not make girls more sexually active: http://www.webmd.com/parenting/news/20111212/study-hpv-vaccine-doesnt-encourage-risky-sexual-activity
USA Today asks: is the US’s high unintended pregnancy rate because women have…to many birth control options? http://yourlife.usatoday.com/health/medical/womenshealth/story/2011-12-12/Too-much-information-Birth-control-choices-abound/51841138/1
Health Care Reform has meant that 2.5 million young adults now have health insurance: http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_HEALTH_OVERHAUL_YOUNG_ADULTS?SITE=FLTAM&SECTION=US&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2011-12-14-03-01-01
Newt Gingrich has pledged that he wants to see an anti-abortion amendment in the constitution: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/14/newt-gingrich-personhood-pledge_n_1149615.html
Millions of Americans are victims of sexual assault: http://news.yahoo.com/millions-americans-victims-sexual-violence-cdc-210409613.html
Jezebel profiles: what kind of woman has a second trimester abortion? http://jezebel.com/5868905/what-kind-of-woman-has-a-second-trimester-abortion
There is a fantastic letter to the editor in the NY Times about why the military’s abortion restriction is awful: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/19/opinion/abortions-for-rape-victims.html

Plan B:

More on the Plan B decision: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-12-12/mayor-bloomberg-says-he-disagrees-with-sebelius-on-plan-b-age-limits.html
And Senators vowed to challenge the decision: http://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/health/plan-b-senators-vow-fight-health-human-services-decision-ban-morning-pill-pharmacy-shelves-article-1.991292
NYTimes calls the Plan B decision politics beating science: http://loyalopposition.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/13/politics-beats-science-again/
The restriction is on both two-step and one-step Plan B: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203518404577095290300069790.html?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
A Brooklyn Federal judge will not hold the FDA in contempt for the decision: http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/fda-seeks-dismissal-of-legal-challenge-to-plan-b/2011/12/12/gIQAR6dyrO_story.html
A NY Times Op Ed calls to free the FDA: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/14/opinion/free-the-fda.html?_r=2&ref=opinion
RH Reality Check says that Obama has set the clock back 100 years: http://www.rhrealitycheck.org/article/2011/12/13/vulnerable-women-and-contraception-d%C3%A9j%C3%A0-vu-all-over-again
Unsurprisingly, there’s been backlash against the decision: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/14/plan-b-birth-control-morning-after-pill-obama_n_1148769.html
Bilingual Weekly calls the continued restrictions too dangerous for Latinas: http://bwnews.us/2011/12/14/commentary-plan-b-restrictions-too-dangerous-for-latinas/
8 reasons why Obama should reverse the decision: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/shawn-lawrence-otto/plan-b-obama-sebelius_b_1150739.html?ref=politics
Gail Collins delves into what’s up with reproductive rights this holiday season: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/17/opinion/collins-an-early-holiday-hangover.html?_r=1

State News:

More on Ohio’s possible abortion ban: http://www.whiotv.com/news/ap/legislative/foes-of-ohio-abortion-ban-at-1st-heartbeat-get-say/nFz3m/
Which, if pursued, could mean hefty legal costs for the state: http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/13/us-abortion-states-costs-idUSTRE7BC1SQ20111213
South Dakota is still trying to defend their anti-abortion laws: thinkprogress.org/health/2011/12/13/388335/south-dakota-governor-asks-for-another-1-million-to-defend-anti-abortion-law-in-court/
A new Wisconsin law would require women to confirm that their decision to get an abortion is voluntary before going through with the procedure: http://www.jsonline.com/news/statepolitics/abortion-bill-to-get-hearing-on-tuesday-rk3e373-135510798.html
And Scott Walker has just removed funding for free cancer screenings for women in Wisconsin: http://motherjones.com/politics/2011/12/scott-walker-next-target-cancer-screenings-women

Weekly News Roundup

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 20:13:29 -0500

Here are a few of the stories we’ve been paying attention to:

New York:

Mayor Bloomberg honored PPNYC’s own Daphne Hazel on World AIDS Day: http://www.mayorsandcities.com/usa-canada/mayor-bloomberg-commemorates-world-aids-day
PPNYC talked to the Uptowner about how STD rates are on the rise uptown: http://theuptowner.org/2011/11/29/sexually-transmitted-diseases-on-the-rise-uptown/
And also to El Diario about HIV/AIDS, and the stigma attached to testing: http://www.impre.com/noticias/2011/12/1/persiste-el-tabu-cultural-sobr-284862-1.html
PPNYC was quoted by the NY Daily News about Siri’s anti-abortion ‘glitch’: http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/apple-siri-app-bloggers-fails-reveal-location-abortion-clinics-a-glitch-article-1.985372
Activist Nicole Clark reposts our Thanksgiving talking tips: http://www.nicole-clark.com/post/13287327765/in-case-you-missed-it-11-21-11
Fordham University students are operating a renegade birth control clinic after the University health plan refused to offer it: http://www.rhrealitycheck.org/article/2011/11/28/catholic-university-students-organize-own-birth-control-clinic
Students there can even incur an extra fee for going off-campus to get birth control: http://jezebel.com/5863023/fordham-students-protest-hidden-anti+birth+control-policy

Emergency Contraception:

Although the FDA determined that emergency contraception was safe enough to sell over the counter and without an age restriction, HHS blocked the decision: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-204_162-57338551/fda-decision-on-teens-morning-after-blocked/
The decision was Kathleen Sebelius’ http://blogs.nature.com/news/2011/12/us_denies_young_teens_easy_acc.html
Determining that there shall be no change to existing regulations of EC: http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/07/us-teva-planb-fda-idUSTRE7B61V120111207
This is the first time ever that HHS has made such a move to overrule the FDA: http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/07/us-teva-planb-fda-idUSTRE7B61V120111207
Obama agrees with the decision: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/09/us/obama-backs-aides-stance-on-morning-after-pill.html?_r=1&hp
Though he asserts he did not get involved in the process: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/09/us/obama-backs-aides-stance-on-morning-after-pill.html?emc=tnt&tntemail0=y
The Washington Post delves into the political history: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/ezra-klein/post/plan-bs-complex-political-path/2011/12/07/gIQAMgKucO_blog.html
Michelle Goldberg says it was politically motivated: http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2011/12/07/obama-s-restrictions-on-morning-after-pill-are-politically-driven.html
And the NYTimes editorializes about it: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/08/opinion/politics-and-the-morning-after-pill.html?_r=1&ref=opinion
Not many are happy with the decision: http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/plan-b-decision-draws-strong-and-mixed-reaction/2011/12/08/gIQA2UjagO_story.html
Including Cecile Richards: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/cecile-richards/the-right-plan-for-plan-b_b_1139184.html
Four ways the decision especially hits women of color the hardest: http://colorlines.com/archives/2011/12/four_ways_obamas_birth_control_fail_hurts_young_women_of_color.html

HHS Decision:

And President Obama still has not decided on whether or not to expand the religious exemptions under the HHS rule that contraception be provided by health care: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1211/70036.html
Keli Goff asks, when will Obama “man up” and stand up for women: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/keli-goff/obama-birth-control_b_1117583.html
NPR points out that many of those opposing the decision already offer contraceptive coverage: http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2011/12/02/143022996/catholic-groups-fight-contraceptive-rule-but-many-already-offer-coverage

World AIDS Day:

CNN reports that 3 out of 4 people who have HIV in the US don’t know it: http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2011/11/29/hiv-out-of-control-in-most-u-s-patients/?hpt=hp_t1
A roadmap for achieving an HIV-free generation: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/susan-blumenthal/world-aids-day_b_1120968.html
Obama is stepping up the fight against HIV/AIDS: http://www.impre.com/noticias/2011/12/1/persiste-el-tabu-cultural-sobr-284862-1.html

Iphone:

The iphone is misleading women who need emergency contraception and reproductive health services: thinkprogress.org/health/2011/11/29/377484/is-the-iphones-siri-misleading-women-who-need-emergency-health-services/
Salon is questioning if it’s on purpose: http://www.salon.com/2011/11/29/is_apples_siri_anti_choice/
The NYTimes talks to the original creator of the app: http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/11/29/siri-struggles-to-serve-up-certain-results/?hp
Though Apple says the oversight is not deliberate: http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/11/30/apple-says-siris-abortion-answers-are-a-glitch/
Cecile Richards writes about why this is important: http://www.impre.com/noticias/2011/12/1/persiste-el-tabu-cultural-sobr-284862-1.html
And the Daily Beast points out this may have to do with anti-abortion manipulation of the internet: http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2011/12/03/are-pro-life-groups-behind-apple-siri-s-abortion-problem.html
Then things the iphone will help you find instead of an abortion 10 things Siri will help you find instead: http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2011/11/29/10-things-the-iphone-siri-will-help-you-get-instead-of-an-abortion/

Sex Ed:

Abstinence education does not reduce teen pregnancy: http://jezebel.com/5863659/new-sex-ed-study-bound-to-hurt-conservatives-feelings
Nor does it even promote abstinence: http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2011/12/01/researchers_find_that_abstinence_only_sex_education_does_not_in_fact_promote_abstinence.html

National News:

Somehow, the Catholic vote is still up for grabs: http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2011/12/10/catholic-vote-in-2012-why-either-political-party-could-win-it.html
On Americans’ reluctance to define a fetus as a person: http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/11/30/on-abortion-and-defining-a-person/?ref=opinion
Kirstin West Savali writes: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. supported Margaret Sanger, so why won’t you? http://yourblackwoman.blogspot.com/2011/12/dr-king-supported-margaret-sanger-and.html#more
Media Matters reiterates: Abortion has no link to breast cancer: http://mediamatters.org/research/201112010016
Also, abortion does not raise your risk of mental illness: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45603029/ns/health-mental_health/#.TuaRjVYRJ8W
Teen birthrates have plummeted because girls can actually access birth control: http://jezebel.com/5864477/teen-birthrate-plummets-because-girls-can-actually-get-birth-control
Republicans are racializing the abortion debate (again) http://www.theroot.com/buzz/republicans-racialize-abortion-debate
Amanda Marcotte writes about Concerned Women for America and the reproductive rights of women in the armed services: http://www.rhrealitycheck.org/article/2011/12/04/cwa-takes-stand-against-raped-service-women
And the NYTimes editorializes about how women in the Armed Services are facing unfair restrictions over abortion: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/12/opinion/an-injustice-for-women-in-uniform.html?_r=1&ref=opinion
There is a new Keith Herring condom: http://nylonguysmagazine.tumblr.com/post/13593578965/the-keith-haring-foundations-new-condoms-for
Teens don’t actually sext as much as we think they do: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/05/science/sending-of-sexual-images-by-minors-not-as-prevalent-as-thought-study-finds.html?_r=2
8 Anti-abortion groups who practice a scorched-earth policy: http://www.alternet.org/sex/153351/meet_8_right-wing_groups_practicing_scorched-earth_anti-choice_nuttery_against_women
Yaz and Yasmin will get more strict warning labels: http://healthland.time.com/2011/12/09/fda-calls-for-clearer-risk-labeling-for-yaz/

Weekly News Roundup

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 17:59:48 -0500

New York:

We have an op ed on birth control in the Huffington Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/haydee-morales/protecting-our-birth-cont_b_1108857.html
Our Talking Turkey guide is listed in the Frisky: http://www.thefrisky.com/2011-11-21/todays-lady-news-how-to-discuss-abortion-over-thanksgiving-with-your-relatives/
And on RH Reality Check: http://www.rhrealitycheck.org/article/2011/11/24/talking-turkey-eight-easy-steps-for-discussing-reproductive-health-and-justice-at-the-holiday-table
As well as Fox news: http://nation.foxnews.com/planned-parenthood/2011/11/25/planned-parenthood-offers-pro-abortion-talking-tips-thanksgiving-dinner
The Daily Caller: http://dailycaller.com/2011/11/27/nycs-planned-parenthood-welcomes-the-holiday-season-with-advocacy-advice/
And Yahoo News: http://news.yahoo.com/nyc-planned-parenthood-welcomes-holiday-season-advocacy-advice-035121214.html
The Gotham Gazette has a two-part series on HIV/AIDS: http://www.gothamgazette.com/article/Health/20111128/9/3650

National News:

Obama still hasn’t decided on birth control refusal: http://www.rhrealitycheck.org/article/2011/11/20/the-other-99-will-obama-betray-them
(Reminder: you can take action here)
Though many are saying he cannot give in to Catholic Bishops, no matter what the pressure: http://www.salon.com/2011/11/21/why_obama_cant_give_in_to_the_bishops/
A decision is expected soon: http://www.msmagazine.com/news/uswirestory.asp?ID=13343
And Democrats are lobbying against the exemption: http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/democrats-lobby-against-any-broader-exceptions-to-contraceptive-coverage/2011/11/21/gIQAdHicmN_story.html
The NY Times wrote an editorial about it: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/25/opinion/battling-over-birth-control.html?_r=1&ref=opinion
And many bloggers are pointing out that he’s essentially being asked to decide what stance is more Catholic: http://www.rhrealitycheck.org/article/2011/11/25/on-contraceptive-coverage-its-not-up-to-the-obama-administration-to-decide-what-is-more-catholic
And quite possibly it could constitute a violation of freedom of religion: http://www.rhrealitycheck.org/article/2011/11/27/whose-religious-freedom
A trial over prescriptions for plan B is picking up: http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Trial-over-Plan-B-prescriptions-begins-Monday-2293968.php

Political News:

Democrats are going after Mitt Romney for his about face on women’s issues: http://ideas.time.com/2011/11/23/mitt-romneys-about-face-on-womens-health/
Including with this new ad: http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/campaigns/democratic-national-committee-ad-targets-romney-over-consistency-on-issues/2011/11/28/gIQAIza93N_story.html
And Mitt Romney may have chosen a woman for his running mate: http://jezebel.com/5862238/meet-the-woman-mitt-romney-prematurely-says-might-be-his-running-mate
While Democrats are doing quite well fundraising for the 2012 House elections: http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/democrats-post-big-fundraising-numbers-for-2012-house-races/2011/11/22/gIQAxIcczN_story.html?tid=pm_politics_pop
And team Obama is gearing up as well: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/27/sunday-review/Team-Obama-Gears-Up-for-2012.html?_r=1&ref=opinion

International News:

An anti-HIV gel trial was canceled because it was so ineffective: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/26/health/research/anti-hiv-gel-trial-is-canceled-in-africa.html?adxnnl=1&ref=health&adxnnlx=1322517150-go5yhenjIhA9ESC1uNB2dw
Though our progress against the disease has hit a plateau: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/28/opinion/still-fighting-against-aids.html?_r=1&ref=opinion

Are you ready for any tough questions that might come up this...

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:30:31 -0500

Are you ready for any tough questions that might come up this Thanksgiving? Take our quiz & find out!

Are You Ready for Thanksgiving?

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:19:02 -0500

Are You Ready to Tackle the Tough Topics this Thanksgiving? A PPNYC Quiz: » create exam

Weekly News Roundup

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 19:54:23 -0500

Here are a few of the stories we’ve been paying attention to:

New York:

PPNYC published a Thanksgiving talking guide, just in time for the holidays: http://www.plannedparenthood.org/nyc/talking-turkey-38298.htm
Brokelyn lists us as a resource: http://www.brokelyn.com/brooklyn-abortion-provider-list/
Points Local runs Joan’s op ed: http://nyc.pointslocal.com/news/2011/11/08/nyc/459829/schoolbook-sex-education-dont-fear-it-use-it
The NY Observer on the rise of activists getting involved as service providers: http://www.observer.com/2011/11/the-rise-of-the-abortion-doula/?show=print
Chancelor Walcott gave an interview on the sex ed mandate: http://www.legislativegazette.com/Articles-Top-Stories-c-2011-11-14-81038.113122-New-York-City-schools-Chancellor-Walcott-says-We-have-a-responsibility-to-keep-students-safe.html
Metro NY runs an op ed against personhood: http://www.metro.us/boston/national/article/1018098—the-personhood-distraction
In New York, poverty is linked to high STD and teen pregnancy rates: http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/bronx/report-finds-poverty-high-pregnancy-std-rates-bronx-teens-article-1.978632

National News:

This week the White House will decide whether to expand the religious exemption for providing birth control without copays: http://www.salon.com/2011/11/18/will_obama_cave_to_catholic_bishops_on_birth_control_coverage/singleton/
Cecile Richards wrote an op ed about it: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/cecile-richards/the-other-99_b_1098313.html
And Latino groups are opposing it: http://www.rhrealitycheck.org/article/2011/11/18/latino-groups-urge-president-obama-to-maintain
Because they want to protect access to preventative care: http://www.hispanicallyspeakingnews.com/notitas-de-noticias/details/latino-health-advocates-urge-obama-to-maintain-birth-control-as-preventive-/11855/
As is Ms. Magazine: http://msmagazine.com/blog/blog/2011/11/17/take-action-dont-let-the-catholic-church-deny-birth-control-coverage-to-millions/
And as are Democrats: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/20/us/politics/democrats-urge-obama-to-defend-birth-control-rules.html?_r=1
The Supreme Court will decide on Health Care Reform in June 2012: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/15/us/supreme-court-to-hear-case-challenging-health-law.html?_r=1&hp
Time Magazine explores the difference between the US and Dutch approaches to sex education: http://healthland.time.com/2011/11/14/mind-reading-what-we-can-learn-from-the-dutch-about-teen-sex/
Laura Sessions Stepp writes about a funny take to sex ed: http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/14/opinion/stepp-sex-ed-online/index.html
And the NY Times had a fantastic piece on healthy approaches to sex education in this weekend’s magazine: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/20/magazine/teaching-good-sex.html
While Amy Schalet says in her new book that the key to curbing teen sex is to stop denying that they’re having sex: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/on-parenting/post/teen-sex-is-denial-the-real-problem-for-american-parents-author-amy-schalet-says-yes/2011/11/16/gIQAEQjFVN_blog.html?hpid=z12
Most American Catholics are pro-choice: http://ideas.time.com/2011/11/17/why-radical-pro-lifers-are-wasting-their-time/?xid=gonewsedit
U.S. teenagers having sex are now a minority: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/15/health/teenagers-having-sex-are-now-a-minority.html?emc=tnt&tntemail0=y
And Momeo Magazine has a great piece on talking to your kids about sex and sexuality: http://www.momeomagazine.com/parenting-101-you-want-me-to-say-what-talking-about-sex-with-your-kids/

Health News:

Increasingly, women are taking the birth control pill for non-birth-control reasons: http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2011/11/15/142358413/the-pill-not-just-for-pregnancy-prevention?ps=sh_sthdl
The truth behind condom effectiveness: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/16/condom-effectiveness_n_1098668.html

State News:

Medical nuances drove the “no” vote in Mississippi: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/15/health/policy/no-vote-in-mississippi-hinged-on-issues-beyond-abortion.html
Though the backers of the Mississippi personhood amendment have started a political committee: http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/324916490b704ae18cb9445441ba1a74/MS—Personhood-PAC/
And the campaign is now headed to Georgia: http://motherjones.com/mojo/2011/11/zygote-personhood-heading-georgia
And in Colorado: http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_19380916

Weekly News Roundup

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 18:00:37 -0500

Here are a few of the articles we’ve been paying attention to this past week:

New York:

PPNYC CEO Joan Malin has an op ed in the NY Times/WNYC site, SchoolBook, on sex education and parent involvement: http://www.nytimes.com/schoolbook/2011/11/08/sex-education-dont-fear-it-use-it/
And SchoolBook is soliciting comments: http://www.nytimes.com/schoolbook/posts/766-what-do-you-think-of-the-new-mandatory-sex-education-program-in-city-schools
Caribbean Life publishes our NY Times op ed: http://www.caribbeanlifenews.com/stories/2011/11/2011_11_09_malin_sexeducation_op_ed.html
And the DA, a schools website, picked up Haydee’s op ed from the Huffington Post: http://www.districtadministration.com/news/opinion-dont-be-spooked-sex-education
A judge has OK’d “choose life” license plates in New York State, though it has been stayed: http://online.wsj.com/article/AP1d68c2ddb3794beea1c56bf02d0a9003.html
Nurses in NJ are suing a hospital for purportedly being forced to perform an abortion: http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2011/11/07/nurses-against-abortion-suing-n-j-hospital-requiring-they-assist-in-the-procedures/
David Freedlander, of the New York Observer, has this long piece up on sex education: http://blog.timesunion.com/capitol/archives/86917/carnal-knowledge-new-mandatory-sex-ed-classes-have-some-hot-and-bothered/
HUGE piece in the Staten Island Advance on sex ed and what it means: http://www.silive.com/news/index.ssf/2011/11/frank_sex_talk_in_lessons_for.html
A New Jersey writer counters the Princeton Op Ed in the NY Times a few weeks ago, saying how important sex ed is: http://www.nj.com/times-opinion/index.ssf/2011/11/opinion_attempts_to_discredit.html
Though in general, NYC schools are not doing that well: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/10/new-york-schools-an-unpre_n_1087065.html
Concerned Women for America are concerned about NYC’s sex ed curriculum: http://www.cwfa.org/content.asp?id=20721

Political/GOP:

Planned Parenthood Action Fund launched the new “Women Are Watching” site to help guard against anti-choice politicians: http://www.womenarewatching.org/
It was covered in Cosmo: http://www.cosmopolitan.com/celebrity/news/planned-parenthood-women-are-watching-new-site-110811
And Marie Claire: http://www.marieclaire.com/world-reports/opinion/women-are-watching-campaign
And Feministing: http://feministing.com/2011/11/08/planned-parenthood-launches-campaign-targeting-2012-candidates/
And Latina Lista: http://www.latinalista.net/mediacasts/2011/11/new_site_informs_women_voters_what_polit.html
Romney is on the outs with people who care about women’s rights: http://www.thelobbynh.com/news/939464-382/romney-clashes-with-womens-rights-activists.html?CSAuthResp=12345%3A%3A9481%3A256%3A24%3Asuccess%3AE6B522BB2C4AB4C00E935CB986F8907D
And Obama said that the GOP is hurting women and dividing the country: http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/federal-government/obama-gop-not-working-to-help-women-is-dividing-country-instead/2011/11/09/gIQADzxf6M_story.html
And that we are not done working towards gender equality: http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2011/11/obama-on-gender-equality-we-are-not-done-yet/
And he touted progress for working women: http://www.thenation.com/blog/164539/obama-touts-progress-working-women
While Valerie Jarrett declared that women’s issues are America’s issues: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/valerie-jarrett/womens-issues-are-america_b_1088672.html
While the NY Times addresses “the moral divide” http://campaignstops.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/11/13/the-gulf-of-morality/

National News:

A terrifying report that the Government’s anti-terrorism tracking database does not include anti-abortion violence: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/07/anti-abortion-violence-terrorism_n_1074911.html
Though the Federal Government is suing an anti-abortion protester who violated the FACE act: http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/s_766060.html?_s_icmp=NetworkHeadlines
A Federal Appeals Court upheld health care reform: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45208152/ns/politics-more_politics/#.TsGQ_lYRJ8V
Which the NY Times applauds: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/12/opinion/affirmation-of-health-care-reform.html?ref=opinion
WNYC covers Jill Lepore’s long article on birth control and the history of Planned Parenthood: http://www.npr.org/2011/11/09/142097521/how-birth-control-and-abortion-became-politicized
As does Amanda Marcotte: http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2011/11/08/planned_parenthood_and_the_birth_of_birth_control_.html

Health News:

Scientists have invented an HIV-blocking gel: http://blogs.laweekly.com/informer/2011/11/ucla_scientists_invent_hiv-blocking_anal_gel.php
National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unintended Pregnancy launched a new ad campaign about how great not being pregnant is: http://jezebel.com/5858438/new-ad-campaign-helpfully-reminds-you-that-not-being-pregnant-is-great

International News:

CNN runs a piece on birth rates and reproductive right in Africa: http://edition.cnn.com/2011/11/07/world/africa/melesse-seven-billion/
Hilary Clinton is aiming for an “AIDS-Free Generation” http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/09/health/policy/hillary-rodham-clinton-aims-for-aids-free-generation.html?ref=us
Russia is enacting restrictive abortion laws: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jon-obrien/russia-abortion_b_1084549.html

State News:

As you know by now, the Mississippi personhood amendment failed: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/09/us/politics/votes-across-the-nation-could-serve-as-a-political-barometer.html?_r=1&hp
The measure, had it passed, would have outlawed many forms of birth control: http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/newsdesk/2011/11/personhood-and-parenthood.html
Apparently mainly thanks to women voters: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hVL2o14jmzOqTI3UdpjZMFwRbmqA?docId=880bf714c87c46a58a01b9a6eea33939
And resulting in an energized reproductive rights base: http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2011/11/09/mississippi-abortion-vote-energizes-abortion-rights-groups/
An anti-union measure in Ohio was also defeated: http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/11/08/8708589-big-win-for-democrats-in-ohio-and-an-abortion-surprise-in-mississippi
And many are wondering if this is a predictor for the 2012 elections: http://www.usatoday.com/news/politics/story/2011-11-08/election-2011-issues-include-personhood-health-care/51129738/1
And a defeat of personhood attempts in general: http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2011/11/09/mississippi-women-score-big-victory-against-personhood.html
Though the hard line Christian Right is regrouping: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/georgetown-on-faith/post/why-the-mississippi-personhood-amendment-self-imploded/2011/11/09/gIQApQqI5M_blog.html
Those that aren’t put off by personhood that is: http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2011/11/09/142184556/personhood-divides-anti-abortion-groups?ps=sh_stcathdl
And the NY Times is calling it back to common sense in the polls: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/10/opinion/back-to-common-sense-at-the-polls.html?ref=opinion
In other news, Planned Parenthood in Kansas was cleared of felony charges: http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/judge-dismisses-felony-charges-against-planned-parenthood-in-kansas-abortion-case/2011/11/09/gIQAp3Nk6M_story.html

"Attempting to keep our children ignorant will only leave them with misinformation, and prevent them..."

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 10:55:05 -0500

“Attempting to keep our children ignorant will only leave them with misinformation, and prevent them from making good, healthy decisions in the future. Parents, we have an opportunity to make sure our children are safe. Talk to your children. Share your values and your hopes from them. And in doing so, you just may help protect their future.”

- Haydee Morales: Don’t Be Spooked By Sex Education

Sex (Re)Ed: How To Talk About Awkward Stuff With Your OB/GYN | Blisstree

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:51:06 -0500

Sex (Re)Ed: How To Talk About Awkward Stuff With Your OB/GYN | Blisstree

"The entrepreneurial way in which feminists have utilized the Internet has completely transformed the..."

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 12:11:06 -0500

“The entrepreneurial way in which feminists have utilized the Internet has completely transformed the nature and reach of social justice organizing.”

- ‘You Are the NOW of Now!’ The Future of (Online) Feminism | The Nation

What do you think? Has online organizing helped revolutionize a movement?

"I’m 32 years old. I’m politically conservative. I’m married. I have an above-average income and..."

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 13:20:06 -0500

“I’m 32 years old. I’m politically conservative. I’m married. I have an above-average income and quality health insurance. As such, I probably wouldn’t be cast for a Planned Parenthood commercial, and the organization was never exactly on my list of top-five health-care providers. That is, until two years ago.”

- Must-Read: Searching for Help | 5280

"Where women lack access to information, they often lack control over the basic boundaries of their..."

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 10:40:05 -0500

“Where women lack access to information, they often lack control over the basic boundaries of their lives. For that reason, “Our Bodies, Ourselves’’ now has a global reach. The latest edition features international partners, such as an NGO of Jewish and Palestinian Israeli women, who are putting out their own versions of the book in Arabic and Hebrew. It also contains more anecdotes and testimonials; Norsigian said the editors concluded that women learn through stories.”

- In ‘Our Bodies,’ a right to knowledge - Opinion - The Boston Globe Explores the Iconic Book, Our Bodies, Ourselves.

Mississippi ‘Personhood’ Amendment Vote...

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 23:05:06 -0500

Mississippi ‘Personhood’ Amendment Vote Fails!!!!

Thank you to all of our amazing activists for volunteering your time over the past few weeks! We couldn’t have done this without you!!!

Article Ideas From a Confidential Memo that started Ms. Magazine (April 1971):

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 13:20:06 -0500

*THE POLITICS OF SEX
*DON’T BELIEVE HIM WHEN HE SAYS POLITICS BEGIN IN WASHINGTON. POLITICS BEGIN AT HOME.
*HOW NOT TO GO THROUGH MENOPAUSE
*A SECRETARY IS AN OFFICE WIFE
*SOMEONE SHOULD HAVE LIBERATED PAT NIXON
*“OF COURSE, I’M ALL FOR EQUAL PAY, BUT … ”
*HOW MARRIAGE KILLS LOVE

NY Magazine: An Oral History of Ms. Magazine

"Let’s start with this simple medical fact: Only about half of fertilized eggs ever become implanted."

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 10:41:06 -0500

“Let’s start with this simple medical fact: Only about half of fertilized eggs ever become implanted.”

- DONT FORGET: THE MISSISSIPPI VOTE ON THE PERSONHOOD AMENDMENT IS TODAY!!!