The controversial practice of abortion has been around for centuries. Since it is such a controversial topic, in recent years, state governments have been trying to pass laws regarding abortion.
Texas abortion laws
In the late summer of 2021, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed a new law banning abortion procedures as soon as six weeks into pregnancy. This could be as early as two weeks late on a woman’s menstrual cycle. This caused people to protest for women’s rights of their own bodies. In response of that, a Texas federal judge halted the motion of the six-week abortion law.
Students’ reactions
People all over the country are voicing their concerns, whether that be through protests, social media or daily conversations. To get responses from the NCC’s student body, an anonymous survey was sent out to collect data. Twenty responses were collected with female, male and non-binary students presented. Nearly 70% of students found out about the abortion laws in Texas via social media. When asked if abortion should be illegal, 80% voted no, 15% voted depending on the circumstance, and 1% voted yes.
“Under current legislation, women do not have complete control over their bodies. We cannot make decisions for ourselves regarding family planning or sexual health. In many cases, we are not even given the resources to understand our bodies. The absolute, visceral fear of a pregnancy scare is indescribable,” said Izzi Miller ‘23.
Further results
A lot of different responses were given when asked how each student spreads awareness about the “My Body, My Choice” movement. This included participating in protests, posting on social media, visiting Planned Parenthood centers, and general conversing. Others note that this matter is meant to be kept personal. However, they would talk about it if necessary. Most of the responses echoed the thought that the present day is a scary time to live in when you do not have the resources available to you.
