January 2011 brought a new inspiration for community involvement. I pondered for quite some time, deciding what arena of the socio-political field I wanted to dedicate my efforts to. Fortuitously, 2011 coincided with Texas’ 82nd legislative session and organizations of all types broadcasted policy goals and threats to current initiatives. Planned Parenthood caught my eye on Facebook, imploring citizens to write letters to their congressmen. Planned Parenthood funds were under attack!
I thought back to the first time I stepped into a Planned Parenthood clinic, several years ago. This particular Florida Planned Parenthood was housed in a cottage-like building, the staff was welcoming, the interior design was warm, and men and women alike sat in the waiting room. Sitting there, waiting for my name to be called, a desire to volunteer for the clinic was born. I never actually followed through with this dream, and now thought to myself “This is finally my chance!”
I met with the community outreach coordinator the very next day, and she informed me on several events happening in the next few weeks in which she could use my help. She told me about a Walk for Choice going on in Austin in the coming days, and referred me to speak with several independent individuals organizing the Walk. My role was determined to be assisting in raising awareness about the event- a march advocating for a woman's right to choose what she does with her body- and photographing the actual march. I had never before participated in a march, and was amazed at the passion I felt congregating with hundreds of strangers with similar views as mine.
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| Social Work students getting involved at the Walk For Choice |
On the misty morning of February 26, 2011 our group of women's health supporters met at the south gates of the Capitol. There were several moving speeches by Planned Parenthood and NARAL Pro-Choice representatives. After, as the group divided to march up and down both sides of Congress Street, I was honored to lead half of those marching. We held bright posters, and chanted "My body, my choice!" Cars honked as they passed us, and we chanted louder. Passers-by gave us thumbs up, and we chanted louder. A man drove by screaming offensive remarks, and we yelled louder still. It was an empowering experience to have all eyes on me as I stood up for my beliefs. I recommend everyone get involved with an organization they are passionate about, and I thank all the men, women and children who participated in February 2011's Walk for Choice.
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