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Sheri Berenbaum
State College
I remember when abortion was illegal in this country. To ensure we never go back, I want everyone to know what that was like.
Before 1973, even consensual, monogamous, heterosexual sex was risky for women.
An unintended pregnancy was frightening and dangerous. With few choices, women were forced to pick the least bad one:
-- "Back-alley" abortions, for those with the money and connections to get one, left many women seriously injured, infertile or dead.
-- Rushed motherhood disrupted education and blocked careers due to scarce childcare and workplace discrimination. Undesired marriage was often needed to obtain social acceptance and economic security.
The Supreme Court decision to legalize abortion (with restrictions) reduced, but didn't eliminate, risks. Since Roe v. Wade, a steady stream of laws narrowed the decision, ultimately leading to its overturn in 2022.
Abortion access is now subject to the whims of legislators and judges -- and unintended pregnancies are as common, and dangerous, as ever.
So, I continue my decades-long fight to protect reproductive health. I give time and money to pro-choice candidates and organizations. I march and rally. I wear the same buttons: "I'm pro-choice and I vote." "My body. My choice." "Keep abortion safe and legal." One simply showing a hanger in a red circle with a line through it.
Together, we can win the fight -- and not pass it onto future generations. We must elect Harris, Casey and down-ballot Democrats. Unlike their opponents, Democrats believe in reproductive freedom.
Reclaim your power. Vote.