Planned Parenthood Celebrates 43rd Anniversary of Roe v. Wade with “Reproductive Justice: Past, Present, and Future”

Personal stories, shared experiences, and rallying for the fights ahead for reproductive justice were explored at “Reproductive Justice: Past, Present, and Future,” a symposium held January  21 by Planned Parenthood Pasadena and San Gabriel Valley (PPPSGV) at All Saints Church in commemoration of the 43rd anniversary of Roe v. Wade.

The night began with Sheri Bonner, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Pasadena and San Gabriel Valley who set the stage for the conversations ahead.

Bonner noted that “it’s so important to hear each other’s stories and to learn about what’s happening around the country and here at home if we’re going to win the fights against reproductive health.”

Symposium speakers included, PPPSGV Board President Dr. Jennifer McNulty, Associate Director of the YWCA Jessica Kubel, PPPSGV Peer Advocate Matilda Berke, PPPSGV Vice President of External Affairs Julianne Hines, and PPPSGV Board Treasurer Sally De Witt.

“My mentors, most of who are retired, were young physicians who worked prior to Roe v. Wade,” said Dr. McNulty. “It is inconceivable to me that women today are still fighting for their right to safe and legal abortions.”

Attendees explored the abortion struggle leading up to the Supreme Court case, Roe v. Wade, they heard personal stories and insights about the battles for reproductive justice, and explored what they could do to protect and promote reproductive justice in the year ahead.

Planned Parenthood is known for its dedication to the field of women’s medicine and leads the country on women’s health care. Because of Roe v. Wade, that includes providing abortion care for women if and when they make that decision.

“To young women everywhere, we must find our voices and fight for political change,” said Berke. “I want women to have the freedom to make their own health care decisions without political interference.”