Report Back on the Abortion Rally

 

On October 2nd, 2021, a caravan of decorated cars paraded through downtown Pensacola, Florida with messages of support for bodily autonomy and human rights. The caravan concluded at the Graffiti Bridge, where both other activists and zealous protestors awaited. As cars passed by, they honked horns with fists raised, aiding the rally’s cry, and some supporters used their large signs to block the disturbing images that the protestors carried from these passerbys. Several people spoke at the rally including someone from Workers World Party (Gulf Coast), Jamil Davis from Black Votes Matter, and Allison from Women’s March Pensacola. Each of them spoke to the fundamental truths that we understand on this issue of abortion, it is a human right. 

A few observations I wish to note and share. Some on the pro-choice side engaged with the pro-birthers by yelling in their faces, and I do not wish this to be a critique of them as this reaction is understandable as this issue can bring up horrible trauma and is a direct threat to the bodies of many. Rather, I want to urge readers to not engage with bigots as it is generally bad for your health, but also if we cannot do so calmly we begin to embody the very worst stereotypes they leverage against us. We can change minds with our approach and optics unfortunately matters on this front. The other issue I wish to address is the rhetoric that was used to dismiss the religious arguments made by the bigots. Using these religious arguments is a tactic to help sow division and seek to give merit to fellow believers of their bigotted messages. I would compel our allies to not give in, as many fighting alongside hold different beliefs and faiths yet come to the same conclusion on human autonomy. People that spoke at this rally even utilised religious texts as evidence that their faith upholds our shared values. Let’s not let bad faith actors drive a wedge where harmony can be found. Uniting with our fellow people in the efforts of human rights must be our focus and cause. A welcome sight at the rally was some of the older generations present in support. In our area, many of us know, even within our own families, those who seek to revert to old, outdated laws. This unity among diverse groups shows that our perspective is not a monolithic ideology, but a cohesive truth to our shared human condition and experience.

Graffiti Bridge, Pensacola, FL

Ethan C.

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