Dear Gentlemen,
In our nation today, women’s reproductive rights face unprecedented challenges. If you wished someone a Happy Mother’s Day but aren’t actively advocating for a woman’s right to control her own reproductive health, it’s time for some self-reflection. You can’t genuinely celebrate motherhood while simultaneously undermining women’s autonomy over their bodies.
We cannot truly honor mothers—past, present, and future—while stripping away their ability to make decisions about their own lives. If you identify as male and want to move beyond mere words in your support of women, consider these actions suggested by women themselves:
Educate Yourself.
The level of ignorance surrounding the female reproductive system is staggering and unacceptable. Take the initiative to learn.
Support Science.
Women’s experiences and established scientific data don’t require male endorsement. Your feelings are secondary to the reality of women’s lives. Equip yourself with facts and make informed choices.
Speak Up.
The silence of “good” men can harm women. When women aren’t around, stand up for them. Talk to other men and boys, engage with your legislators, and when women are present, listen actively.
Address Racism.
Recognize that when women suffer, marginalized women often bear the brunt of it.
Donate to National Organizations and Local Grassroots Movements.
Put your financial advantage to good use. Support organizations that provide reproductive health care, birth control, and safe abortion access. This includes well-known groups like Planned Parenthood and the ACLU, as well as local initiatives. While you’re at it, consider giving to those who focus on helping men understand their role in this conversation—check out resources like this fertility booster for men.
Elect Women.
Research candidates’ voting records on reproductive rights, then contribute to and vote for women in office. Empower women legislatively, then step back and let them lead.
Decenter Male Pleasure.
There’s a suggestion making the rounds, inspired by the Greek play Lysistrata, advocating for a “sex strike” among women. This notion reduces women to mere instruments of male gratification and implies they should have to leverage their bodies for reproductive rights. Women deserve pleasure that isn’t tied to male desire or reproduction. Remember, pleasure should not be contingent on male ejaculation. It’s time for men to work on their skills beyond just the physical.
Decenter Maleness.
Instead of merely offering women a place at the table, make room for them. Better yet, give them your seat.
Look at the Bigger Picture.
The wave of restrictive local anti-abortion laws is an attempt to undermine women’s constitutional rights. Don’t wait for things to escalate; actively research candidates and vote in every election. Your choices matter—third-party votes and abstaining can cost lives.
Gentlemen, there’s no neutral stance here. You are either actively fighting against oppression or unwittingly siding with it. A woman’s right to choose is fundamentally hers.
For more insights on this topic, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination, or explore the at-home insemination kit to better understand reproductive options.
Summary:
This letter challenges men to actively support women’s reproductive rights, emphasizing the importance of education, advocacy, and financial support for women’s health organizations. It calls for men to listen, speak up, and step aside to empower women, while also addressing the interconnectedness of race and gender in reproductive justice.
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