Dr. Tiller's murder a year ago on May 31 was a staggering reminder of the dangers abortion providers, their staff, and patients face every day. Taunts, harassment, and threats of physical violence are a reality for those who provide women's reproductive-health care.
It's terrifying. And it's unacceptable. That's why today, Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) honored Dr. Tiller's memory by speaking out against clinic violence from the floor.
Tell Majority Leader Reid "thank you" for honoring Dr. Tiller's legacy.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Choice News May 28th 2010
Supreme Court Watch
Memos from Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan's clerkship with Justice Thurgood Marshall express concern that a conservative court would be a detriment to women's rights.
Stateside
Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry vetoed a bill that would have banned insurance coverage for abortion except under limited circumstances in the new insurance exchanges. This is the fourth veto Gov. Henry has issued on abortion-related legislation this year; the last three vetoes were overridden by the Republican-controlled legislature.
Contraception
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the oral contraceptive pill is the most popular form of birth control worldwide.
A report from the CDC also found that women and their male partners are increasingly using male condoms when they have sex for the first time. This trend may explain the decline in the teenage birth rate over the past few decades.
Time Magazine reports that emergency contraception (also known as the morning-after pill) is gaining in popularity among urban India's increasingly educated women.
Other News of Note
New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof calls the Catholic Church's excommunication of a nun who was part of a hospital's ethics committee that voted to allow a woman to have a life-saving abortion "morally obtuse."
Writing for the Nation, Lynn Harris reports on the disturbing trend of reproductive coercion, when a man tries to force his female partner to become pregnant as a means of control. Harris argues that addressing this kind of intimate partner violence must be a part of the strategy for reducing teen pregnancy rates.
Teen pregnancy rates in Canada have dropped by 37% over the last decade. Researchers point to sexual health education and increased access to birth control as part of the reason for the decline.
In response to public outcry, the American Academy of Pediatrics has pulled back from its recommendation, issued last month, that doctors be given permission to perform a ceremonial pinprick or nick on girls if it would prevent their families from sending them abroad for female genital mutilation.
Memos from Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan's clerkship with Justice Thurgood Marshall express concern that a conservative court would be a detriment to women's rights.
Stateside
Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry vetoed a bill that would have banned insurance coverage for abortion except under limited circumstances in the new insurance exchanges. This is the fourth veto Gov. Henry has issued on abortion-related legislation this year; the last three vetoes were overridden by the Republican-controlled legislature.
Contraception
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the oral contraceptive pill is the most popular form of birth control worldwide.
A report from the CDC also found that women and their male partners are increasingly using male condoms when they have sex for the first time. This trend may explain the decline in the teenage birth rate over the past few decades.
Time Magazine reports that emergency contraception (also known as the morning-after pill) is gaining in popularity among urban India's increasingly educated women.
Other News of Note
New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof calls the Catholic Church's excommunication of a nun who was part of a hospital's ethics committee that voted to allow a woman to have a life-saving abortion "morally obtuse."
Writing for the Nation, Lynn Harris reports on the disturbing trend of reproductive coercion, when a man tries to force his female partner to become pregnant as a means of control. Harris argues that addressing this kind of intimate partner violence must be a part of the strategy for reducing teen pregnancy rates.
Teen pregnancy rates in Canada have dropped by 37% over the last decade. Researchers point to sexual health education and increased access to birth control as part of the reason for the decline.
In response to public outcry, the American Academy of Pediatrics has pulled back from its recommendation, issued last month, that doctors be given permission to perform a ceremonial pinprick or nick on girls if it would prevent their families from sending them abroad for female genital mutilation.
Senate Committee Votes to Repeal Discriminatory Abortion Ban Targeting Military Women
Washington, DC - Nancy Keenan, president of NARAL Pro-Choice America, called a Senate committee’s vote to lift a ban on abortion services for military women an important step forward for women’s freedom and privacy.
Late Thursday members of the Senate Armed Services Committee approved an amendment offered by Sen. Roland Burris (D-IL) to repeal a law that forbids servicewomen and female military dependents from using their own money for abortion services at overseas military hospitals.
This repeal does not mean the Department of Defense would have to pay for abortion services. It would simply lift the current ban on privately funded abortion care at U.S. military facilities overseas.
"We commend the committee for moving forward to end a policy that denies health-care options to women serving in the military, even when they use their own money," Keenan said. "Women in the military should have access to the same quality care available to women in our country. Signing up to serve in the armed forces shouldn’t cause women to lose health-care options if they’re stationed overseas. We look forward to working with our allies in the Senate to protect this progress when the bill goes to the full Senate."
Keenan also said that, according to the Pentagon, the number of reported sexual assaults in the military increased significantly over the past few years. The most recent data indicate that the trend may be leveling off. However, sexual assaults in the military remain a major cause for concern, thus underscoring the need for women in the military to have access to a full range of reproductive-health services.
For more information on this topic, you may find our fact sheet at ProChoiceAmerica.org.
Late Thursday members of the Senate Armed Services Committee approved an amendment offered by Sen. Roland Burris (D-IL) to repeal a law that forbids servicewomen and female military dependents from using their own money for abortion services at overseas military hospitals.
This repeal does not mean the Department of Defense would have to pay for abortion services. It would simply lift the current ban on privately funded abortion care at U.S. military facilities overseas.
"We commend the committee for moving forward to end a policy that denies health-care options to women serving in the military, even when they use their own money," Keenan said. "Women in the military should have access to the same quality care available to women in our country. Signing up to serve in the armed forces shouldn’t cause women to lose health-care options if they’re stationed overseas. We look forward to working with our allies in the Senate to protect this progress when the bill goes to the full Senate."
Keenan also said that, according to the Pentagon, the number of reported sexual assaults in the military increased significantly over the past few years. The most recent data indicate that the trend may be leveling off. However, sexual assaults in the military remain a major cause for concern, thus underscoring the need for women in the military to have access to a full range of reproductive-health services.
For more information on this topic, you may find our fact sheet at ProChoiceAmerica.org.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Choice News May 26th edition
Supreme Court Watch
A large anti-choice group, Americans United for Life, is seeking a delay in the confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan in order to provide the Clinton library time to find and make public her key writings while she was a White House lawyer, and later a domestic policy aide.
2010 Elections
Anti-choice Dino Rossi, who failed to unseat Gov. Gregoire twice, is expected to announce his candidacy this week against pro-choice U.S. Senator Patty Murray.
The stranger reports on Rossi's history of avoidance when it comes to discussing his stance on reproductive rights and choice.
The Los Angeles Times reports that GOP Senate candidate Tom Campbell from California is facing opposition in seeking his party's nomination because of his more moderate social policy views.
Stateside
Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry on Saturday vetoed a bill that would have required women to provide personal information, including answering questions about their relationships, before getting an abortion.
However, the Oklahoma state House voted Monday to override the veto, and an override vote is expected in the Senate this week as well.
RH Reality Check reports on the anti-choice legislation passed in the Missouri state Legislature this session.
Legislators in Kansas have put a line item into the state budget reallocating $2.4 million in federal family-planning funding to hospitals and primary or preventative care clinics. This would leave any reproductive health-specific organizations like Planned Parenthood without state funding.
A limited service pregnancy center (often referred to as a "crisis pregnancy center") in Montgomery County, MD is suing the County over the recent Baltimore ordinance that requires the centers to post signs that disclose that they do not provide abortion care or abortion referrals.
Other News of Note
Publicola reported on our Power of Choice Luncheon yesterday, where we gave Publicola News Editor Erica Barnett a Power of Choice Award. Publicola also covered the audible hissing from the audience when anti-choice U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert was mentioned in a speech at the luncheon.
NARAL Pro-Choice America President Nancy Keenan writes a piece for the Huffington Post in remembrance of Dr. George Tiller, a late-term abortion provider who was murdered a year ago this week.
A principal at a school in Norfolk, VA is under investigation after dolls depicting fetuses were given to students.
BBC News reports that statistics indicate that the abortion rate in the UK is declining, but experts caution that it is still too early to say there is a downward trend.
A large anti-choice group, Americans United for Life, is seeking a delay in the confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan in order to provide the Clinton library time to find and make public her key writings while she was a White House lawyer, and later a domestic policy aide.
2010 Elections
Anti-choice Dino Rossi, who failed to unseat Gov. Gregoire twice, is expected to announce his candidacy this week against pro-choice U.S. Senator Patty Murray.
The stranger reports on Rossi's history of avoidance when it comes to discussing his stance on reproductive rights and choice.
The Los Angeles Times reports that GOP Senate candidate Tom Campbell from California is facing opposition in seeking his party's nomination because of his more moderate social policy views.
Stateside
Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry on Saturday vetoed a bill that would have required women to provide personal information, including answering questions about their relationships, before getting an abortion.
However, the Oklahoma state House voted Monday to override the veto, and an override vote is expected in the Senate this week as well.
RH Reality Check reports on the anti-choice legislation passed in the Missouri state Legislature this session.
Legislators in Kansas have put a line item into the state budget reallocating $2.4 million in federal family-planning funding to hospitals and primary or preventative care clinics. This would leave any reproductive health-specific organizations like Planned Parenthood without state funding.
A limited service pregnancy center (often referred to as a "crisis pregnancy center") in Montgomery County, MD is suing the County over the recent Baltimore ordinance that requires the centers to post signs that disclose that they do not provide abortion care or abortion referrals.
Other News of Note
Publicola reported on our Power of Choice Luncheon yesterday, where we gave Publicola News Editor Erica Barnett a Power of Choice Award. Publicola also covered the audible hissing from the audience when anti-choice U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert was mentioned in a speech at the luncheon.
NARAL Pro-Choice America President Nancy Keenan writes a piece for the Huffington Post in remembrance of Dr. George Tiller, a late-term abortion provider who was murdered a year ago this week.
A principal at a school in Norfolk, VA is under investigation after dolls depicting fetuses were given to students.
BBC News reports that statistics indicate that the abortion rate in the UK is declining, but experts caution that it is still too early to say there is a downward trend.
Monday, May 24, 2010
One Year Later: Honoring Dr. George Tiller
Nancy Keenan, President of NARAL Pro-Choice America, published the following blog post on the Huffington Post titled, "One Year Later: Honoring Dr. George Tiller." The one-year anniversary of his murder is next Monday, May 31.
And here is a snippet:
We are days away from marking the one-year anniversary of the Sunday morning Scott Roeder walked into Dr. George Tiller's church in Kansas and shot him at close range.
After his murder, many women and men came to our blog to express their appreciation for what Dr. Tiller had done for their sisters, wives, relatives, and friends. Many of these women had found themselves in desperate and heart-breaking circumstances and turned to Dr. Tiller in their time of need.
Karen from Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania gives us one example of what Dr. Tiller meant to women:
Dr. Tiller, you saved my niece Jeanette's life, you helped our family through one of the darkest, most desperate and unthinkable moments we ever experienced. When we thought there was no where to turn, there you were. I called you the 'Wizard', because of the incredible journey we had taken to find you, in Kansas. You are, and will always be my Hero.
It makes me angry when I think about how Roeder sat through his trial without showing any remorse for his actions. He reached new lows of callousness and disrespect for the Tiller family and for families like Karen's. It's equally infuriating that the same people who spent years harassing Dr. Tiller and his patients outside his health center showed no remorse. They rejected the notion that their pattern of inflammatory rhetoric could lead to violence by the more extreme elements of their own anti-choice movement.
Here is the link to the full piece: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/nancy-keenan/one-year-later-honoring-d_b_587040.html
And here is a snippet:
We are days away from marking the one-year anniversary of the Sunday morning Scott Roeder walked into Dr. George Tiller's church in Kansas and shot him at close range.
After his murder, many women and men came to our blog to express their appreciation for what Dr. Tiller had done for their sisters, wives, relatives, and friends. Many of these women had found themselves in desperate and heart-breaking circumstances and turned to Dr. Tiller in their time of need.
Karen from Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania gives us one example of what Dr. Tiller meant to women:
Dr. Tiller, you saved my niece Jeanette's life, you helped our family through one of the darkest, most desperate and unthinkable moments we ever experienced. When we thought there was no where to turn, there you were. I called you the 'Wizard', because of the incredible journey we had taken to find you, in Kansas. You are, and will always be my Hero.
It makes me angry when I think about how Roeder sat through his trial without showing any remorse for his actions. He reached new lows of callousness and disrespect for the Tiller family and for families like Karen's. It's equally infuriating that the same people who spent years harassing Dr. Tiller and his patients outside his health center showed no remorse. They rejected the notion that their pattern of inflammatory rhetoric could lead to violence by the more extreme elements of their own anti-choice movement.
Here is the link to the full piece: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/nancy-keenan/one-year-later-honoring-d_b_587040.html
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Choice News, May 20th 2010
Supreme Court Watch
Womens E-news reports on how the midterm elections could potentially affect the confirmation process for nominee Elena Kagan.
Elections 2010
A signature drive began yesterday to get Initiative 1098, the high earners income tax, on the November ballot. It would be the first tax reform measure to be on the ballot in 40 years.
Stateside
RH Reality Check provides more commentary on the anti-choice bill passed by the Louisiana state Legislature on Tuesday to mandate an ultrasound for all women before they can receive abortion care.
Pro-choice advocates in Kansas are urging Governor Mark Parkinson to veto an anti-choice bill that would prevent the state from paying Planned Parenthood to provide services to low-income residents. Gov. Parkinson vetoed a similar bill last year.
Other News of Note
A controversial new television advertisement will begin airing next week in the UK, and is designed to provide women with information on abortion and other related services.
New York Times Op-Ed Columnist Nicholas Kristof writes about the negative effects from the unavailability of birth control in many poor countries.
RH Reality Check reports on the negative impact that the new immigration law in Arizona is having on women and their children.
Womens E-news reports on how the midterm elections could potentially affect the confirmation process for nominee Elena Kagan.
Elections 2010
A signature drive began yesterday to get Initiative 1098, the high earners income tax, on the November ballot. It would be the first tax reform measure to be on the ballot in 40 years.
Stateside
RH Reality Check provides more commentary on the anti-choice bill passed by the Louisiana state Legislature on Tuesday to mandate an ultrasound for all women before they can receive abortion care.
Pro-choice advocates in Kansas are urging Governor Mark Parkinson to veto an anti-choice bill that would prevent the state from paying Planned Parenthood to provide services to low-income residents. Gov. Parkinson vetoed a similar bill last year.
Other News of Note
A controversial new television advertisement will begin airing next week in the UK, and is designed to provide women with information on abortion and other related services.
New York Times Op-Ed Columnist Nicholas Kristof writes about the negative effects from the unavailability of birth control in many poor countries.
RH Reality Check reports on the negative impact that the new immigration law in Arizona is having on women and their children.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Choice News, May 19th 2010
Supreme Court Watch
The confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan will begin on June 28 and will conclude before the July 4th recess.
Rep. Louise Slaughter (D-NY) sent a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee asking that committee members press Solicitor General Kagan on her views on abortion rights.
Stateside
The Louisiana Senate passed a bill requiring women seeking an abortion to first undergo an ultrasound. The measure is now headed to the House, where it is expected to pass.
The Louisiana House rejected a bill that would have required schools to teach comprehensive sex education.
Other News of Note
Rep. Mark Souder (R-Ind.), an advocate of abstinence outside of marriage, resigned after admitting that he has been having an affair with one of his staffers.
Elle Magazine looks at efforts to increase men's legal rights in cases where their partner becomes pregnant and the two disagree on whether to have an abortion or carry the pregnancy to term.
The confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan will begin on June 28 and will conclude before the July 4th recess.
Rep. Louise Slaughter (D-NY) sent a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee asking that committee members press Solicitor General Kagan on her views on abortion rights.
Stateside
The Louisiana Senate passed a bill requiring women seeking an abortion to first undergo an ultrasound. The measure is now headed to the House, where it is expected to pass.
The Louisiana House rejected a bill that would have required schools to teach comprehensive sex education.
Other News of Note
Rep. Mark Souder (R-Ind.), an advocate of abstinence outside of marriage, resigned after admitting that he has been having an affair with one of his staffers.
Elle Magazine looks at efforts to increase men's legal rights in cases where their partner becomes pregnant and the two disagree on whether to have an abortion or carry the pregnancy to term.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Choice News, May 18th 2010
Supreme Court Watch
President Obama's advisors say he has no doubt that Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan is a legal progressive who will maintain the current balance of the court if confirmed to replace the retiring liberal Justice John Paul Stevens. However, with the constitutional right to an abortion hanging in the balance, Kagan's record is giving pause to both sides.
Stateside
The AP reports that anti-choice legislators and activists are taking advantage of the provision of the federal health care reform law that permits state legislatures to prohibit all insurance coverage for abortion care in the new insurance exchanges. Arizona and Tennessee have already passed laws banning abortion coverage in the exchanges; in Florida, Mississippi and Missouri, lawmakers have passed similar bans that await their governors' signatures. Overall, 29 states legislatures have expressed interest in banning abortion coverage in the exchanges.
Florida Governor Charlie Crist is leaning strongly toward vetoing an anti-choice bill that would require women to get an ultrasound before receiving abortion care.
Other News of Note
RH Reality Check provides context and commentary on new Gallup poll results that showed a drop in support for legal abortion among young people.
New York Times writer Laura Holson notes that unmarried, successful women in their 40s and 50s, like Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan, still need to "explain" why they are single.
President Obama's advisors say he has no doubt that Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan is a legal progressive who will maintain the current balance of the court if confirmed to replace the retiring liberal Justice John Paul Stevens. However, with the constitutional right to an abortion hanging in the balance, Kagan's record is giving pause to both sides.
Stateside
The AP reports that anti-choice legislators and activists are taking advantage of the provision of the federal health care reform law that permits state legislatures to prohibit all insurance coverage for abortion care in the new insurance exchanges. Arizona and Tennessee have already passed laws banning abortion coverage in the exchanges; in Florida, Mississippi and Missouri, lawmakers have passed similar bans that await their governors' signatures. Overall, 29 states legislatures have expressed interest in banning abortion coverage in the exchanges.
Florida Governor Charlie Crist is leaning strongly toward vetoing an anti-choice bill that would require women to get an ultrasound before receiving abortion care.
Other News of Note
RH Reality Check provides context and commentary on new Gallup poll results that showed a drop in support for legal abortion among young people.
New York Times writer Laura Holson notes that unmarried, successful women in their 40s and 50s, like Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan, still need to "explain" why they are single.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Choice News, Friday May 14th 2010
Supreme Court Watch
Sen. Arlen Specter (D-Penn.), facing a tough primary next week, called Solicitor General Elena Kagan a "good candidate" for the Supreme Court after his meeting with her. As a Republican, Sen. Specter voted against Kagan's confirmation to her current post.
The New York Times looks at the ways that Republicans and Democrats are using the Supreme Court nomination as a campaign issue for the midterm elections.
The Seattle Times has more on the reports that Gov. Chris Gregoire is on the short list to replace Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan as Solicitor General. Should Gov. Gregoire leave the governor's office, Lt. Gov. Brad Owen would become governor. Depending on when the vacancy occurs, there are several election protocols to elect a new governor.
State Auditor Brian Sonntag says he will run for governor in the event that Gov. Gregoire becomes the Solicitor General.
2010 Elections
The Washington Post looks at the Susan B. Anthony List, an anti-choice counterpart to EMILY's List, and their goal of unseating Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) over the health care reform legislation. The group is working to elect anti-choice Republican Sue Lowden.
The Washington Beverage Association has filed paperwork for two versions of a ballot initiative to repeal the new taxes on soda, bottled water, candy, gum and certain kinds of processed foods. One of the versions would also repeal the tax on mass-market beer.
Other News of Note
RH Reality Checks features an article on the different generations within the reproductive rights and justice movement, and the importance of working together to achieve reproductive freedom for all women.
Rep. Lois Capps (D-CA) introduced the Global Moms Act, which calls for the development of a comprehensive strategy, as part of the Global Health Initiative, to reduce mortality and improve the health of mothers and newborns in developing countries.
Time Magazine reports on the controversy over the American Academy of Pediatrics' change of position on female genital mutilation. The organization has decided to explore allowing American doctors to perform a ceremonial pinprick, or small nick, on young girls if it would keep their families from pursuing mutilation.
Sen. Arlen Specter (D-Penn.), facing a tough primary next week, called Solicitor General Elena Kagan a "good candidate" for the Supreme Court after his meeting with her. As a Republican, Sen. Specter voted against Kagan's confirmation to her current post.
The New York Times looks at the ways that Republicans and Democrats are using the Supreme Court nomination as a campaign issue for the midterm elections.
The Seattle Times has more on the reports that Gov. Chris Gregoire is on the short list to replace Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan as Solicitor General. Should Gov. Gregoire leave the governor's office, Lt. Gov. Brad Owen would become governor. Depending on when the vacancy occurs, there are several election protocols to elect a new governor.
State Auditor Brian Sonntag says he will run for governor in the event that Gov. Gregoire becomes the Solicitor General.
2010 Elections
The Washington Post looks at the Susan B. Anthony List, an anti-choice counterpart to EMILY's List, and their goal of unseating Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) over the health care reform legislation. The group is working to elect anti-choice Republican Sue Lowden.
The Washington Beverage Association has filed paperwork for two versions of a ballot initiative to repeal the new taxes on soda, bottled water, candy, gum and certain kinds of processed foods. One of the versions would also repeal the tax on mass-market beer.
Other News of Note
RH Reality Checks features an article on the different generations within the reproductive rights and justice movement, and the importance of working together to achieve reproductive freedom for all women.
Rep. Lois Capps (D-CA) introduced the Global Moms Act, which calls for the development of a comprehensive strategy, as part of the Global Health Initiative, to reduce mortality and improve the health of mothers and newborns in developing countries.
Time Magazine reports on the controversy over the American Academy of Pediatrics' change of position on female genital mutilation. The organization has decided to explore allowing American doctors to perform a ceremonial pinprick, or small nick, on young girls if it would keep their families from pursuing mutilation.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Choice News Wed, May 13 2010
Supreme Court Watch
Sen. Arlen Specter (D-Penn.), facing a tough primary next week, called Solicitor General Elena Kagan a "good candidate" for the Supreme Court after his meeting with her. As a Republican, Sen. Specter voted against Kagan's confirmation to her current post.
The New York Times looks at the ways that Republicans and Democrats are using the Supreme Court nomination as a campaign issue for the midterm elections.
The Seattle Times has more on the reports that Gov. Chris Gregoire is on the short list to replace Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan as Solicitor General. Should Gov. Gregoire leave the governor's office, Lt. Gov. Brad Owen would become governor. Depending on when the vacancy occurs, there are several election protocols to elect a new governor.
State Auditor Brian Sonntag says he will run for governor in the event that Gov. Gregoire becomes the Solicitor General.
2010 Elections
The Washington Post looks at the Susan B. Anthony List, an anti-choice counterpart to EMILY's List, and their goal of unseating Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) over the health care reform legislation. The group is working to elect anti-choice Republican Sue Lowden.
The Washington Beverage Association has filed paperwork for two versions of a ballot initiative to repeal the new taxes on soda, bottled water, candy, gum and certain kinds of processed foods. One of the versions would also repeal the tax on mass-market beer.
Other News of Note
RH Reality Checks features an article on the different generations within the reproductive rights and justice movement, and the importance of working together to achieve reproductive freedom for all women.
Rep. Lois Capps (D-CA) introduced the Global Moms Act, which calls for the development of a comprehensive strategy, as part of the Global Health Initiative, to reduce mortality and improve the health of mothers and newborns in developing countries.
Time Magazine reports on the controversy over the American Academy of Pediatrics' change of position on female genital mutilation. The organization has decided to explore allowing American doctors to perform a ceremonial pinprick, or small nick, on young girls if it would keep their families from pursuing mutilation.
Supreme Court Watch
Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan is meeting with members of the Senate in advance of her confirmation hearing.
Politico reports on additional memos drafted by Elena Kagan during the Clinton administration, including one in 1998 in which she advised President Clinton not to try to expand Medicare coverage of abortion to include cases where the health of the woman is in danger, in part to avoid a fight with Republicans.
RH Reality Check's Jodi Jacobson is disappointed that Kagan's career in the Clinton White House appears to be marked by political pragmatism when it came to women's rights.
Liberal Democratic senators are trying to reassure progressives that Solicitor General Kagan is a "Democrat's Democrat."
Gov. Chris Gregoire is on President Obama's short list to replace Elena Kagan as Solicitor General, assuming Kagan is confirmed for the Supreme Court.
Gov. Gregoire says she has no plans to leave office for Washington, DC.
Stateside
An Oklahoma bill requiring a woman seeking an abortion to provide marital status, reasons for ending the pregnancy, whether she is currently receiving public assistance and whether the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest is headed to the governor's desk.
Sen. Arlen Specter (D-Penn.), facing a tough primary next week, called Solicitor General Elena Kagan a "good candidate" for the Supreme Court after his meeting with her. As a Republican, Sen. Specter voted against Kagan's confirmation to her current post.
The New York Times looks at the ways that Republicans and Democrats are using the Supreme Court nomination as a campaign issue for the midterm elections.
The Seattle Times has more on the reports that Gov. Chris Gregoire is on the short list to replace Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan as Solicitor General. Should Gov. Gregoire leave the governor's office, Lt. Gov. Brad Owen would become governor. Depending on when the vacancy occurs, there are several election protocols to elect a new governor.
State Auditor Brian Sonntag says he will run for governor in the event that Gov. Gregoire becomes the Solicitor General.
2010 Elections
The Washington Post looks at the Susan B. Anthony List, an anti-choice counterpart to EMILY's List, and their goal of unseating Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) over the health care reform legislation. The group is working to elect anti-choice Republican Sue Lowden.
The Washington Beverage Association has filed paperwork for two versions of a ballot initiative to repeal the new taxes on soda, bottled water, candy, gum and certain kinds of processed foods. One of the versions would also repeal the tax on mass-market beer.
Other News of Note
RH Reality Checks features an article on the different generations within the reproductive rights and justice movement, and the importance of working together to achieve reproductive freedom for all women.
Rep. Lois Capps (D-CA) introduced the Global Moms Act, which calls for the development of a comprehensive strategy, as part of the Global Health Initiative, to reduce mortality and improve the health of mothers and newborns in developing countries.
Time Magazine reports on the controversy over the American Academy of Pediatrics' change of position on female genital mutilation. The organization has decided to explore allowing American doctors to perform a ceremonial pinprick, or small nick, on young girls if it would keep their families from pursuing mutilation.
Supreme Court Watch
Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan is meeting with members of the Senate in advance of her confirmation hearing.
Politico reports on additional memos drafted by Elena Kagan during the Clinton administration, including one in 1998 in which she advised President Clinton not to try to expand Medicare coverage of abortion to include cases where the health of the woman is in danger, in part to avoid a fight with Republicans.
RH Reality Check's Jodi Jacobson is disappointed that Kagan's career in the Clinton White House appears to be marked by political pragmatism when it came to women's rights.
Liberal Democratic senators are trying to reassure progressives that Solicitor General Kagan is a "Democrat's Democrat."
Gov. Chris Gregoire is on President Obama's short list to replace Elena Kagan as Solicitor General, assuming Kagan is confirmed for the Supreme Court.
Gov. Gregoire says she has no plans to leave office for Washington, DC.
Stateside
An Oklahoma bill requiring a woman seeking an abortion to provide marital status, reasons for ending the pregnancy, whether she is currently receiving public assistance and whether the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest is headed to the governor's desk.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Choice News
Supreme Court Watch
President Obama nominated Solicitor General Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court. The Washington Post reports that abortion may be the "sleeper issue" of the confirmation; in 1997, she penned a memo to President Clinton in support of a compromise on the ban on late-term abortion.
The Stranger notes that Solicitor General Kagan does not have much of a paper trail with regard to her position on the right to choose, and quotes NARAL Pro-Choice Washington executive director Lauren Simonds as eager to know more about her stance on reproductive rights.
The New York Times profiles Solicitor General Kagan, noting that she has been careful throughout her life not to reveal too much about herself or her beliefs in order to position herself where she is today.
New York Times columnist Linda Greenhouse urges Solicitor General Kagan to reveal her positions on the issues of the day, as Kagan herself urged judicial nominees to do in an article she wrote in 1995.
Syndicated columnist Ruth Marcus writes that if confirmed, Solicitor General Kagan's ascent to the Supreme Court most likely marks the end of the time when women comprised only one or two seats on the court
The New York Times looks at the differences between Supreme Court nominations made by Republican and Democratic presidents.
Health Care Reform
The Washington Post reports that the federal health care reform legislation may reignite debate over what services medical professionals can refuse to provide.
The New York Times looks at the funding for comprehensive sexual health education programs that is included in the health care reform law.
Other News of Note
New York Times columnist Gail Collins has a piece commemorating the 50th anniversary of the birth control pill.
The Washington Post reports that some women are seeking alternatives to oral contraceptives.
Anti-choice hardliner Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.) has an op-ed in Newsweek about his strained relationship with the anti-choice movement over health care reform negotiations.
Pro-choice Connie Saltonstall has pulled out of the race to replace Rep. Stupak, who is not seeking re-election.
Pre-term births are on the decline in the U.S. for the second year in a row, although the U.S. still has a higher pre-term birth rate than other developed countries.
President Obama nominated Solicitor General Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court. The Washington Post reports that abortion may be the "sleeper issue" of the confirmation; in 1997, she penned a memo to President Clinton in support of a compromise on the ban on late-term abortion.
The Stranger notes that Solicitor General Kagan does not have much of a paper trail with regard to her position on the right to choose, and quotes NARAL Pro-Choice Washington executive director Lauren Simonds as eager to know more about her stance on reproductive rights.
The New York Times profiles Solicitor General Kagan, noting that she has been careful throughout her life not to reveal too much about herself or her beliefs in order to position herself where she is today.
New York Times columnist Linda Greenhouse urges Solicitor General Kagan to reveal her positions on the issues of the day, as Kagan herself urged judicial nominees to do in an article she wrote in 1995.
Syndicated columnist Ruth Marcus writes that if confirmed, Solicitor General Kagan's ascent to the Supreme Court most likely marks the end of the time when women comprised only one or two seats on the court
The New York Times looks at the differences between Supreme Court nominations made by Republican and Democratic presidents.
Health Care Reform
The Washington Post reports that the federal health care reform legislation may reignite debate over what services medical professionals can refuse to provide.
The New York Times looks at the funding for comprehensive sexual health education programs that is included in the health care reform law.
Other News of Note
New York Times columnist Gail Collins has a piece commemorating the 50th anniversary of the birth control pill.
The Washington Post reports that some women are seeking alternatives to oral contraceptives.
Anti-choice hardliner Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.) has an op-ed in Newsweek about his strained relationship with the anti-choice movement over health care reform negotiations.
Pro-choice Connie Saltonstall has pulled out of the race to replace Rep. Stupak, who is not seeking re-election.
Pre-term births are on the decline in the U.S. for the second year in a row, although the U.S. still has a higher pre-term birth rate than other developed countries.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Ensure a fair hearing for Solicitor General Kagan for Supreme Court
President Obama nominated Solicitor General Elena Kagan to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Solicitor General Kagan has a sound record of legal accomplishment, and we look forward to learning more about this nominee.
The future of women’s access to abortion hangs in the balance. The last two major choice-related cases were decided by a five-to-four margin, and retiring Justice John Paul Stevens is one of the Supreme Court’s strongest supporters of the right to choose. His departure could create a vacuum on the Court, and our opponents are going to do everything in their power to obstruct the confirmation process.
We will not allow attacks on the right to privacy to go unanswered. Tell your senators that Solicitor General Kagan deserves a fair hearing that includes questions about Roe v. Wade.
Solicitor General Kagan has a sound record of legal accomplishment, and we look forward to learning more about this nominee.
The future of women’s access to abortion hangs in the balance. The last two major choice-related cases were decided by a five-to-four margin, and retiring Justice John Paul Stevens is one of the Supreme Court’s strongest supporters of the right to choose. His departure could create a vacuum on the Court, and our opponents are going to do everything in their power to obstruct the confirmation process.
We will not allow attacks on the right to privacy to go unanswered. Tell your senators that Solicitor General Kagan deserves a fair hearing that includes questions about Roe v. Wade.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Choice News
Supreme Court Watch
With the expectation that President Obama will announce his nominee in the coming days, CNN provides summaries of the four judges who are believed to be finalists for the nomination.
Stateside
RH Reality Check provides a round up of the week in choice-related legislation in state legislatures.
Contraception
The FDA has approved a new birth control pill, which is already licensed in Europe, that is the first four-phase oral contraceptive in the U.S.
MSNBC features a story that recounts how the birth control pill has changed various women's lives.
Francine Coeytaux, writing for RH Reality Check, honors Mother's Day and the 50th anniversary of the birth control pill with her story about how modern contraception has shaped her life, and a call to action to ensure that it is accessible to all women.
Other News of Note
The American Academy of Pediatrics is suggesting that a ceremonial pin prick by doctors should be authorized by the United States to prevent the families of some newborn girls from taking them to their home country to undergo Female Genital Mutilation (F.G.M.). Critics argue that such a policy would create confusion about whether F.G.M. is acceptable in any form, and that it is the wrong step forward on how best to protect young women and girls.
With the expectation that President Obama will announce his nominee in the coming days, CNN provides summaries of the four judges who are believed to be finalists for the nomination.
Stateside
RH Reality Check provides a round up of the week in choice-related legislation in state legislatures.
Contraception
The FDA has approved a new birth control pill, which is already licensed in Europe, that is the first four-phase oral contraceptive in the U.S.
MSNBC features a story that recounts how the birth control pill has changed various women's lives.
Francine Coeytaux, writing for RH Reality Check, honors Mother's Day and the 50th anniversary of the birth control pill with her story about how modern contraception has shaped her life, and a call to action to ensure that it is accessible to all women.
Other News of Note
The American Academy of Pediatrics is suggesting that a ceremonial pin prick by doctors should be authorized by the United States to prevent the families of some newborn girls from taking them to their home country to undergo Female Genital Mutilation (F.G.M.). Critics argue that such a policy would create confusion about whether F.G.M. is acceptable in any form, and that it is the wrong step forward on how best to protect young women and girls.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Todays Choice News
Supreme Court Watch
An ABC News/Washington Post poll finds that a clear majority of Americans want President Obama to select a Supreme Court nominee who supports the right to choose.
Newsweek reports on the likelihood that President Obama will appoint a woman to the Supreme Court.
The Seattle Times reports on fears that President Obama will nominate a more moderate justice to the Supreme Court.
Stateside
Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson has agreed to a court order requested by abortion providers to temporarily block enforcement of a new anti-choice state law, which requires women to get an ultrasound and hear a detailed description of the fetus before having an abortion.
The Kansas state House voted to override a veto by Governor Mark Parkinson on anti-choice legislation that would place additional restrictions on abortion care after 20 weeks. The Senate will now vote on the override, but has previously not been able to pass similar veto overrides.
The Pennsylvania House Education Committee voted to approve age appropriate sex education in all public schools, an important first step in mandating comprehensive sex education.
Bill Gates, Sr. has an op-ed in the Seattle Times in which he advocates in support of establishing a high-earners income tax. He writes that the initiative would make the state's tax system more equitable and would benefit middle class families and small businesses.
Ashley Sayeau, writing for the U.K. Guardian, provides commentary on the recent anti-choice laws in several states, and why they disrespect women's feelings and medical needs.
Health Care and Abortion Coverage
According to a new study from the Guttmacher Institute, most women who receive abortion care pay for it out of pocket, with private insurers covering just 12% of the cost.
According to another recent report from the Guttmacher Institute, women living in poverty make up an increasing share of patients who seek abortion care, with a staggering 60% increase within this demographic over eight years.
Conservative Washington Post columnist Michael Gerson argues against Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's call for Canada's G-8 summit on improving maternal health to include a provision on abortion access, yet he argues for access to contraception in order to protect the health of women who are likely to have dangerous pregnancies.
Contraception
As the United States celebrates the 50th anniversary of the birth control pill, the Seattle Times reports on the continuing need for better contraception.
Other News of Note
Rocio Cordoba, writing for RH Reality Check, discusses why separate schools for pregnant or parenting youth of color in California are unequal and discriminatory.
First Response, a company that makes pregnancy, ovulation and fertility test kits, is introducing a web-only reality series on TLC.com about 5 women who are trying to conceive.
An ABC News/Washington Post poll finds that a clear majority of Americans want President Obama to select a Supreme Court nominee who supports the right to choose.
Newsweek reports on the likelihood that President Obama will appoint a woman to the Supreme Court.
The Seattle Times reports on fears that President Obama will nominate a more moderate justice to the Supreme Court.
Stateside
Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson has agreed to a court order requested by abortion providers to temporarily block enforcement of a new anti-choice state law, which requires women to get an ultrasound and hear a detailed description of the fetus before having an abortion.
The Kansas state House voted to override a veto by Governor Mark Parkinson on anti-choice legislation that would place additional restrictions on abortion care after 20 weeks. The Senate will now vote on the override, but has previously not been able to pass similar veto overrides.
The Pennsylvania House Education Committee voted to approve age appropriate sex education in all public schools, an important first step in mandating comprehensive sex education.
Bill Gates, Sr. has an op-ed in the Seattle Times in which he advocates in support of establishing a high-earners income tax. He writes that the initiative would make the state's tax system more equitable and would benefit middle class families and small businesses.
Ashley Sayeau, writing for the U.K. Guardian, provides commentary on the recent anti-choice laws in several states, and why they disrespect women's feelings and medical needs.
Health Care and Abortion Coverage
According to a new study from the Guttmacher Institute, most women who receive abortion care pay for it out of pocket, with private insurers covering just 12% of the cost.
According to another recent report from the Guttmacher Institute, women living in poverty make up an increasing share of patients who seek abortion care, with a staggering 60% increase within this demographic over eight years.
Conservative Washington Post columnist Michael Gerson argues against Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's call for Canada's G-8 summit on improving maternal health to include a provision on abortion access, yet he argues for access to contraception in order to protect the health of women who are likely to have dangerous pregnancies.
Contraception
As the United States celebrates the 50th anniversary of the birth control pill, the Seattle Times reports on the continuing need for better contraception.
Other News of Note
Rocio Cordoba, writing for RH Reality Check, discusses why separate schools for pregnant or parenting youth of color in California are unequal and discriminatory.
First Response, a company that makes pregnancy, ovulation and fertility test kits, is introducing a web-only reality series on TLC.com about 5 women who are trying to conceive.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Random Choice News
Supreme Court Watch
The Wall Street Journal discusses why pro-choice potential Supreme Court nominee Diane Wood would be a strong voice for women's rights on the Court. (Curiously, the article states that recent nominees have had unknown records on the right to choose, despite Justice Alito's established track record in opposition to a woman's right to choose prior to his nomination to the Supreme Court.)
Stateside
The Florida state Senate voted to ban abortion coverage in the new health care exchange, while at the same time requiring women seeking an abortion to pay out of pocket for an ultrasound.
The San Jose Mercury News has an editorial condemning the new anti-choice laws in Oklahoma.
CNN features an opinion piece from Mary Alice Carr, Vice President for Communications at the National Institute for Reproductive Health, which discusses how the new anti-choice laws in Oklahoma take away a woman's right to full, honest information from her doctor.
New York Times op-ed columnist Gail Collins cites Oklahoma's latest anti-choice laws as an example of recent extreme state legislation.
Other News of Note
Aimée Thorne-Thomsen writes for RH Reality Check about why access to safe and legal abortion is a matter of trusting women and wanting them to have access to all the information, services and resources necessary to make the best decisions for themselves and their families.
Laura Bush has written a memoir, Spoken from the Heart, in which she briefly reiterates her belief that abortion is a private decision.
The Wall Street Journal discusses why pro-choice potential Supreme Court nominee Diane Wood would be a strong voice for women's rights on the Court. (Curiously, the article states that recent nominees have had unknown records on the right to choose, despite Justice Alito's established track record in opposition to a woman's right to choose prior to his nomination to the Supreme Court.)
Stateside
The Florida state Senate voted to ban abortion coverage in the new health care exchange, while at the same time requiring women seeking an abortion to pay out of pocket for an ultrasound.
The San Jose Mercury News has an editorial condemning the new anti-choice laws in Oklahoma.
CNN features an opinion piece from Mary Alice Carr, Vice President for Communications at the National Institute for Reproductive Health, which discusses how the new anti-choice laws in Oklahoma take away a woman's right to full, honest information from her doctor.
New York Times op-ed columnist Gail Collins cites Oklahoma's latest anti-choice laws as an example of recent extreme state legislation.
Other News of Note
Aimée Thorne-Thomsen writes for RH Reality Check about why access to safe and legal abortion is a matter of trusting women and wanting them to have access to all the information, services and resources necessary to make the best decisions for themselves and their families.
Laura Bush has written a memoir, Spoken from the Heart, in which she briefly reiterates her belief that abortion is a private decision.
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