URGE: Unite for Reproductive & Gender Equity

Have you heard the news? SCOTUS has protected access to Mifepristone, a critical abortion medicine. Young people power prevails.✊🏽

Yes, this is a victory–but we aren’t stopping here. Two years ago, SCOTUS overturned Roe v. Wade and returned the decision to the states. Since then, young people took to the streets to make their voices heard. We've showed up at rallies, in the media, and at the polls to let leaders know we want access to abortion care, without political interference and without barriers.

This fight isn't over yet, and we're still waiting to hear the Court's decision about EMTALA- the emergency abortion care case SCOTUS heard in April. We can promise you though, we'll mobilize to make sure ALL of our voices are heard.

We need your support to build on this momentum and continue working to safeguard reproductive rights. Give now to help us continue our mission and ensure that everyone has access to the care they need.

link in bio 🌸

Today, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the FDA allowing the abortion pill, Mifepristone, to continue to be used for abortion and miscarriage care.

Mifepristone is a safe and effective drug backed by over 20 years of scientific evidence and has been used by more than 5 million people.

This decision prevents more harm from being done in the fight to expand access to medication abortion in the wake of growing abortion restrictions across the country.

Read URGE's full statement and our Executive Director, Kimberly Inez McGuire's remarks at the link in our bio.

News is IN. 🚨 SCOTUS has protected access to Mifepristone, a critical abortion medicine.

While we're relieved that Mifepristone will remain accessible to providers and individuals seeking to self-manage their abortions, make no mistake, this case should have never made it to SCOTUS in the first place.

FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine was all too close to revoking Mifepristone’s approval, making it even harder for people to access safe and effective abortion care. Its legality should have never been questioned.

So yes, this is a victory–but we aren’t stopping here. We need to continue fighting for FULL access to abortion, without political interference.

June is and we're reminding y'all all day everyday that abortion is NOT just a cis-sue!

It's important that we use gender-inclusive language and recognize the experiences of trans, nonbinary, inters*x, Two-Spirit, and q***r folks who have abortion.🏳️‍⚧️🏳️‍🌈✊🏽

Join URGE's Graduation Edition of our Membership Monday on IG LIVE at 5pm ET!✨

Throughout the end of this month, we'll be celebrating our amazing student leader graduates who are entering their next chapters of life. Today, we are celebrating URGE chapter board member and former President, Brandi!💖

We are so proud of all the work our chapters have accomplished this year, and we know that this is only the beginning of their activist journeys!✊🏽

1️⃣ more day is left to apply to URGE's National Leadership Summit! If you're a young person passionate about Reproductive Justice and you are looking to sharpen your organizing skills, this is the perfect opportunity for you.✨

Head to the link in our bio or go to bit.ly/NationalLeadershipSummitApp24 to apply and more for information! Applications are due TOMORROW, May 16. We hope to see you in Atlanta🙌🏽

We’re wrapping up with this zine by about their personal experiences with birth control pills and the access they now have since Opill hit pharmacies in March 2024

Check out Kyra B’s quick set of infographics if you’re still a little confused on Opill, what it is, how to access it, and how to take it.

is still going, and we’ve got so much great content to share! created this amazing zine (check out urge.org/freethepillfest2024 to read the full thing) about disenfranchised folks who are still facing access barriers.

We're closing out with a poem by Sarah P about the freedom that over-the-counter birth control pills will grant many people in the US.

Over-The-Counter Birth Control Pills and Disability Justice
by Alex B.

In March, an over-the-counter birth control pill finally became available in the US. This new advancement will improve access to birth control for marginalized people, including low-income people, people of color, and Disabled people.

Over 100 other countries also offer over-the-counter birth control pills, and this type of pill was approved over 50 years ago, with decades of experience proving its safety and efficacy. So while this may seem like a relatively small advancement in reproductive justice, it is important to celebrate the small wins. In collaboration with URGE (Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity), I wanted to explore the ways the option of an over-the-counter birth control pill can reduce barriers to contraceptive access for Disabled folks.

What is reproductive justice?

The term for the concept of reproductive justice was coined by a group Black women in 1994 as an alternative to the reproductive rights movement, recognizing that the reproductive rights movement frequently excluded the needs of marginalized women and trans people while favoring the experiences of white middle-class and upper-middle-class women. Reproductive justice combines elements of reproductive rights and social justice. The organization SisterSong defines reproductive justice as “the human right to maintain personal bodily autonomy, have children, not have children, and parent the children we have in safe and sustainable communities.”

These changes are similar to the transformations the disability activism community has experienced in the shift from disability rights to disability justice. Disability justice was coined by performance troupe Sins Invalid in 2005. Disability justice is a specifically anticapitalist and anticolonial framework that seeks to recognize those who were “invisibilized” by the original disability rights movement – “[those] who lived at intersecting junctures of oppression – disabled people of color, immigrants with disabilities, q***rs with disabilities, trans and gender non-conforming people with disabilities, people with disabilities who are houseless, people with disabilities who are incarcerated, people with disabilities who have had their ancestral lands stolen, amongst others.”

Both the reproductive justice and disability justice movements emphasize the importance of intersectionality and bodily autonomy.

Why is reproductive justice important for the Disability community?

Disabled people still face significant stigmas regarding s*xual and reproductive health. Disabled people face reproductive-health-related ableism from many different angles, from healthcare providers making assumptions about whether Disabled people are s*xually active, to intellectually and developmentally disabled people being overprescribed birth control or even forcibly sterilized, to people with chronic illnesses like endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and hormonal disorders not being able to access healthcare that would ease their symptoms.

For as many access issues Disabled people have in reproductive healthcare, we have as many variations in the ways we fight it. Disabled activist Laurie Bertram Roberts created the organization Yellowhammer Fund to help people in the deep South access abortions. Recent Guggenheim Fellow Jessica Blinkhorn’s performance art has explored themes of s*xuality and dominance through a disability lens. And a recently opened s*xual wellness store in Atlanta, Kiss and Ride, highlights access for q***r Disabled folks.

What barriers to accessing birth control has the Disability community faced?

The Autistic Self-Advocacy Network, in collaboration with the National Partnership for Women & Families, wrote an excellent paper explaining the many barriers Disabled people face while trying to access contraceptives, and I recommend checking it out if you want to learn more.

Lack of contraceptive coverage for Medicare recipients

While Medicare is typically thought of as only being for people over 65, the government health insurance also covers people of all ages with qualifying disabilities. Unfortunately, Medicare does not require contraceptives to be covered if they are being prescribed to prevent pregnancy, and does not cover all forms of contraceptives. Medicare enrollees had at times been forced to pay out-of-pocket for contraceptives, and Medicare Advantage enrollees had higher incidences of IUDs and tubal ligations compared to reproductive-aged people covered by traditional Medicare.

A 2019 study found that 14.3% of people enrolled in traditional Medicare and 16.3% people enrolled in Medicare Advantage had an insurance claim for contraception in 2019. In comparison, 25% of people enrolled in Medicaid, which is required to cover all types of contraceptives, had an insurance claim for contraception in 2019.

No insurance coverage at all

Many Americans, including Disabled people, are uninsured, making the out-of-pocket cost of contraceptives prohibitive. While the over-the-counter birth control is still expensive at $19.99 for a one-month supply, not needing a prescription does eliminate the cost of a prescribing appointment which would have previously been necessary.

Stigma and lack of medical education by providers

Healthcare providers frequently fail Disabled people by assuming, subconsciously or not, that Disabled people are not interested in or capable of s*x and that they have no reproductive justice needs. Healthcare providers may prescribe types of contraceptives that conflict with the patient’s access needs, comfort levels, or are not what the Disabled patient truly wants. Providers may not share the full spectrum of contraceptive options available. Intellectually and developmentally disabled people receive less s*xual and reproductive health education overall, including about consent.

Non-contraceptive reasons birth control is used

Birth control is frequently used to treat uncomfortable or debilitating symptoms in chronically ill menstruating people, including heavy periods, endometriosis, chronic anemia, hormonal imbalances and uterine or ovarian cysts. An over-the-counter birth control pill increases access for this part of the community.

Medical burnout

Caring for yourself as a Disabled or chronically ill person is hard, and it can be difficult to want to schedule another doctor’s appointment on top of other appointments and care tasks. An over-the-counter option for oral birth control can help reduce this feeling of burnout for some Disabled folks, as well as cutting down on medical costs like transportation and a copay.

Despite this win, we should keep fighting for reproductive justice and better improvements to this access, such as lowering the price and requiring insurance coverage. By continuing to pressure pharmaceutical companies, retailers, and policymakers, we can ensure that this new availability of an over-the-counter birth control pill increases reproductive justice for all Americans, including the Disability community.

Breaking Down Barriers to Birth Control: Young Peoples’s Fight for Opill and Beyond - by Larada L.

March 4, 2024, marked a historic leap forward for reproductive health in the United States. Perrigo's announcement of Opill, the first over-the-counter (OTC) birth control pill, symbolized a triumph born from decades of advocacy. This victory, however, was not solely a product of institutional change; it was a testament to the relentless dedication of countless advocates, particularly young activists, who championed the cause of reproductive autonomy.

An alliance of over 200 reproductive health, rights, and justice organizations, united under a common vision, has been at the forefront of the battle for birth control access. Their tireless advocacy, rooted in the principles of reproductive justice, paved the way for Opill's groundbreaking approval by the FDA. Central to this narrative is the indelible mark left by young activists who fervently advocated for Opill's FDA approval. Through their unwavering resolve and impassioned advocacy, these
young advocates played a pivotal role in driving progress. From organizing rallies to submitting compelling testimonies, their voices reverberated across the nation, demanding action and change.

The collaborative approach embraced by the coalition was instrumental in amplifying the voices of young activists. By fostering collaboration and bridging generational divides, the coalition ensured that the concerns and experiences of young people were not only acknowledged but also prioritized. Their testimonies, which shed light on the barriers faced by young individuals in accessing birth control and reproductive health care services, resonated deeply with policymakers, catalyzing a paradigm shift in the discourse surrounding reproductive rights.

The FDA's approval of Opill on July 13, 2023, marked a watershed moment in the fight for reproductive autonomy. It was a testament to the collective power of advocacy and activism, underscoring the significance of grassroots mobilization in effecting change. However, this victory is tempered by the stark reality of economic disparity. With Opill priced at $19.99 per pack, many individuals, particularly those marginalized by systemic inequities, continue to face barriers to access.

As we celebrate this milestone, it is imperative that we acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. The battle for reproductive justice is far from over, and the fight for equitable access to contraception must continue. Addressing cost barriers is essential, but it is equally crucial to confront the structural inequities that perpetuate health disparities. No one should be denied the fundamental right to reproductive health care due to financial constraints.

Looking ahead, we must redouble our efforts to ensure that Opill is accessible to all who need it. This requires a concerted effort to dismantle systemic barriers and foster an environment where reproductive autonomy is not just a privilege but a right. Young activists, with their unwavering
dedication and boundless energy, will continue to lead the charge. Their passion and commitment serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring us all to strive for a future where reproductive justice is a reality for all.

Opill is just the beginning of a larger movement towards reproductive autonomy. As we embark on this journey, let us stand together in solidarity, determined to break down barriers and pave the way for a future where everyone has the freedom to make informed choices about their reproductive health. The fight continues, and with young people at the helm, change is not just possible – it is inevitable.

It’s Saturday and Milan P is sharing a graphic content poem about what having access to over-the-counter birth control pills means to them.

It's time again, and this time we're celebrating Freeing the Pill!! Opill became available over-the-counter at local pharmacies for the first time in March 2024, and young creatives have been sharing what this new access means to them 🎉

The road to has been long, with a lot a lot grassroots activism, but we finally did it!! In July 2023, the FDA approved the first-ever OTC birth control pill in the U.S. Swipe through to see background on the history of the Free the Pill Movement

Been hearing the hype about Opill, but not sure what it is or how it works? Don’t worry, has you covered with this info series on all the fast facts you need to know about Opill.

FINALLY getting over-the-counter access to birth control pills was a huge win 🎉 but that doesn’t mean there isn’t still a lot of work to be done and barriers to break down ⚡️ This asked young people of Ohio what they thought some good next steps would be, swipe ➡️ through to see what folks said.

Ever wondered if over-the-counter birth control pills (Opill) was the right choice for you? Well, on Day, will take you on a little 'choose your own adventure' through different lifestyle scenarios to see the paths you can take with this new access to OTC birth control pills.

It's time again, and for this years we are celebrating finally freeing the pill 💥

That's right, in July 2023, the FDA approved Opill for over-the-counter use. Young creative, , shares what it means to them to finally be able to access OTC birth control pills 🎉

It's and this year we're celebrating: WE FREED THE PILL!! Young creatives shared with us what it means to them to FINALLY have access to OTC birth control pills 🎉

May is *xEdForAllMonth, highlighting the need for comprehensive, inclusive s*xual health education in the US📚 Comprehensive s*x ed looks like access to the information and resources we need to make the best decisions for our bodies.👐🏽

Age appropriate and medically accurate information about s*xual health, establishing safe relationships, and maintaining boundaries can be life changing for young people!🧡✊🏽

For more information, check out URGE's Young People's Reproductive Policy Agenda and sign on to demand that we have the tools we need to build health communities, including the need for comprehensive s*x ed✨

Have you applied to Leadership Summit yet👀 2️⃣ more weeks are left before applications are due! If you're a young person passionate about , join URGE in Atlanta this summer for a week of skills building and organizing training!

The application is available at the link in our bio, we hope to see you there!✊🏽

May means *xEdForAll Month and we're kicking the month off with a from our amazing collab last year with our friends at 💚

Check out this inclusive list of s*x ed resources we compiled! Comprehensive S*x Ed is the solution✨✊🏽

Since Dobbs, many disabled people have not been able to receive the abortion care that they have sought, undermining their reproductive freedom and dignity, threatening their economic security, and endangering their health and lives.

Read ’s new brief: https://npwf.info/3Uu5Pbv

New analysis from National Partnership for Women & Families finds that more than 3 million disabled women live in the 26 states that have banned or are likely to ban since Dobbs. That accounts for more than half of all disabled women in the U.S. Read more at:

State Abortion Bans Harm More Than Three Million Disabled Women | National Partnership for Women & Families The Dobbs decision has only compounded the longstanding barriers to abortion care that disabled people face, including provider discrimination and lack of training or experience with disabled patients, guardians dictating decisions about their reproductive care, denials of care and assistance among....

Check out URGE's Executive Director, Kimberly Inez McGuire and many other important panelists at a crucial Reproductive Justice Town Hall event tonight at 7pm ET!

The panel will address "Project 2025" and how we can undermine it to keep access to abortion in tact, amongst other issues. Register using the link in bio👩🏽‍💻

Have you applied for Leadership Summit yet?👀

The semester might be winding down, but URGE is continuing to teach valuable organizing knowledge this summer! Join us for our National Leadership Summit, happening in Atlanta in July to sharpen your organizing skills and to build community with fellow RJ activists🥳

Apply using the link in our bio!

Yesterday, young people rallied opposite anti-abortion extremists in front of the Supreme Court, standing their ground against the efforts to erode our rights to essential medical care.

Inside, the courts once again debated over ways to restrict OUR bodies and OUR lives.

We cannot let the courts erode our right to bodily autonomy. Investing in URGE is a powerful way to fight this extremist agenda.✊🏽