Reproductive freedom is the ability of all people to have the legal rights and equitable access to resources to make the best decisions for themselves – whether that means continuing a pregnancy, seeking adoption, or accessing abortion care.
Breaking Barriers is our new series of community conversations and engagement about the challenges facing pregnant Kentuckians. We're working with a wide variety of people from all corners of the commonwealth, including advocates, people with personal experiences, and healthcare professionals. Together, we are learning from those most affected by these issues so we can work together with a unified strategy to:
- reduce racial disparities in maternal and infant mortality
- protect and expand access to abortion care
- expand pre-K and paid leave so no parent is forced to choose between a paycheck and caring for their child
- reduce instances of sexual assault and domestic violence
- connect survivors of violence to therapists, counselors, and other support programs
- ensure all families have a home in Kentucky, whether they have one parent, two moms, or no moms
- provide young people with age-appropriate, comprehensive, and inclusive education about sex, sexuality, relationships
This coalition includes birth workers seeking reproductive justice in Louisville's West End, doulas in Appalachia, physicians, other advocacy organizations, and people who have personally experienced the challenges facing Kentuckians. If you or someone you know is interested in getting involved, email [email protected] and come to one of our events.
We're hosting several Breaking Barriers events through the summer and fall that you can attend in-person or virtually. Check out the events below and click here to see all ACLU-KY events and pandemic safety precautions.
Black Breastfeeding Week | August 23, 2021, 6:00 PM ET
Join us with doula Alexa Hughes during Black Breastfeeding week for Lactation Basics 101. Alexa will share information about lactation for new and expecting parents. There will be door prizes and gift bags. Click here to learn more about Alexa's organization, Alexa's Birth Services. Click here for more information and free registration.
Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Prevention | September 16, 2021, 6:00 PM ET
Join us with the Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs, the Fairness Campaign, and the Center for Women and Families to learn about policies and programs to reduce violence and the resources to support survivors. All organizations will have information about ways to get involved and find support. Therapists and counselors will also be present. Click here for more information and free registration.
Let's Talk About "Sex"-tember | September 18, 2021, 1:00 PM ET
Join us for a discussion about inclusive, comprehensive, age-appropriate relationship and sexual health education. Click here for more information and free registration.
Candle Light Vigil for Pregnancy and Infant Loss | October 15, 2021, 6:30 PM ET
October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Join the community for a candle light vigil supporting people and families who have lost a pregnancy or child. Counselors and therapists will be on site to talk to anyone who needs it. Click here for more information and free registration.
Universal Pre-K and Paid Leave | October 20, 2021, 6:00 PM ET
No person should be forced to choose between a paycheck and taking care of their children. Kentucky needs universal pre-K and paid family leave. Join us with other advocates to build on recent successes at the state and local levels to continue the fight so all Kentuckians can have equitable access to the resources they need to grow their families. Click here for more information and free registration.
