Fall is blowing in, and with it the upcoming mid-term elections.
We are proud to live in a state that has one of the highest rates of women and women of color represented in public office. This is a sign of a healthy democracy.
In a moment when political extremists are determined to strip away reproductive rights, attack the bodily sovereignty of transgender folks, and restrict access to voting in many states, working for gender justice is essential to maintaining our democracy. Here in New Mexico, community partners and elected officials have been working for decades to ensure that our reproductive healthcare ecosystem is sound and that our state remains a safe haven for those seeking abortion services. Simultaneously, access to services remains challenging for rural, low income, and communities of color.
We know that reproductive rights issues mobilize voters. High rates of voter turnout in Pennsylvania, Kansas, and Michigan recently ensured that abortion was legally protected in these states. New Mexicans have an opportunity to do the same. Beyond abortion care, our rights, access to services, and equitable policies are not guaranteed. Alongside community organizing and long term work for gender justice, showing up at the ballot box is critical. Particularly when we know that so many communities and individuals are actively denied and being excluded from the electoral process. Let’s get out the vote for gender justice, folks!