Saying the "A" Word: Abortion Advocacy and Assistance in Louisiana

Through the lens of a local direct service and advocacy organization, this talk will explore the impact of abortion restrictions and lack of access on low-income women.  The New Orleans Abortion Fund (NOAF) is a community-based organization rooted in social justice, with the purpose of challenging socioeconomic inequalities by providing financial help to women throughout the Gulf Coast who cannot afford the full cost of an abortion.  By merging charitable assistance, client engagement, movement-building, and legislative advocacy, NOAF works to ensure access to the full spectrum of reproductive health care.  This presentation will examine demographic information about the women most impacted by onerous regulations; explore the growing movement for reproductive justice - including abortion access - in Louisiana; and explain the successes and challenges of bringing public health concerns, medical and legal information, and the stories of low-income women to state legislators, the media, and the public.