Jan. 22, 1973, is probably one of the most important days in American history for women’s rights. It was the day the Supreme Court announced its decision in the Roe vs. Wade case, its decision to legalize abortion in the United States.
However, it is important to remind readers that Roe has not completely protected the right to choose. Hundreds of laws that roll back reproductive rights have been introduced and implemented across the country, and clinics, doctors, and patients continue to be targets of harassment and violence. This is why organizations such as DCAF do the work that they do.
Though the March for Life is usually the loudest voice in DC on Roe Day, this year will be a little different. There will be many pro-choice events planned in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. We encourage supporters to attend these exciting events!
In DC, Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, Feminist Majority Foundation, National Organization for Women (NOW), DC NOW, and the Women’s Information Network (WIN) have teamed up to hold several events commemorating the anniversary. The theme is “When did the ‘Right to Life’ Become the Right to Terrorize?”
Thursday, Jan. 21: Press Conference and Lobby Day
From 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the National Press Club, there will be a press conference focusing on the personal testimonies of clinicians and escorts who have witnessed the violence against the reproductive community. Congresswoman Donna Edwards (D-MD) will be the main speaker. RSVP here.
From 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. participants will visit 14 Congressional representatives to advocate that they take action to end terror against the reproductive rights community. RSVP here.
Friday, Jan. 22: Supreme Court Rally and Celebrating Choice Social Event
From 1 to 3 p.m. there will be a peaceful gathering outside of the Supreme Court building to protest the attacks against a woman’s right to choose, and celebrate the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade ruling.RSVP here.
From 6 to 9 p.m., all are welcome to join a social event at the Madhatter in Dupont Circle. There will be drinks and appetizers, with remarks by Heather Booth, a member of WIN’s Advisory Council. RSVP here.
Looking for events in Maryland or Virginia? See below.
Silver Spring, Maryland
Friday, Jan. 22: NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland is sponsoring a happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. at Denizens Brewing Co. RSVP here.
Monday, Jan. 25: NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland is sponsoring a book reading and discussion in Baltimore with authors David Cohen and Krysten Connon about their book Living in the Crosshairs: The Untold Stories of Anti-Abortion Terrorism. RSVP here.
Richmond, Virginia
Wednesday, Feb. 3: Women’s Equality Day of Action
7 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia will host a breakfast and then attend lobby meetings.
1 to 3 p.m.: Lunch and debrief
5 to 7 p.m.: Women’s Equality Coalition Reception
If you are interested in attending any of these events, please RSVP by emailing [email protected].
Note: Watch out for #snowvwade, which may cause issues for scheduling and traffic. Check with sponsoring organizations to make sure events are still on! The weather may also cause issues for patients trying to access reproductive health care — >donate to DCAF in honor of #snowvwade in order to help patients whose appointments may be postponed.
By volunteer Maggie G.
