Amber Thompson Reflects on the Texas Abortion Law: ‘Distressing and Dreadful and Disheartening’

Amber Thompson, known for her work as an actress, director, and writer—and a strong advocate for feminism—has openly shared her thoughts on the recent Texas abortion law. “I don’t control how people perceive me, but if that’s how they see me, I’ll accept it,” she remarks.

Thompson’s performances span from Joan of Arcadia to The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and the FX series Y: The Last Man, which premieres on September 13. While her career is commendable, her passion as an activist is equally significant. She speaks candidly about issues surrounding sexual harassment and racism, and as a mother, she voices her deep concerns about the future, particularly in light of the Texas legislation that prohibits abortions after six weeks and empowers citizens to report those involved in providing abortions.

“I had been preparing myself for this moment for a while, observing the ways in which the pro-life movement and conservatives have strategized for this for the past three decades,” she explains. However, amidst her fears, she holds a glimmer of hope.

When did you first realize this was a reality?

“I started to feel concerned when many lawyer friends began discussing it, particularly in the context of what we should be worried about. I had prepared myself, but it was eye-opening to see how everyone around me suddenly reacted with shock and dismay.”

She adds, “It’s truly distressing and dreadful. The most upsetting aspect is its punitive nature. The fact is, no one knows they’re pregnant at six weeks. Only those undergoing in vitro procedures are aware, and they’re not seeking abortions.”

Thompson expresses frustration over the hypocrisy of those who advocate for personal choice regarding masks and vaccines yet deny women the autonomy over their own bodies. “It’s demoralizing. Maintaining optimism is challenging,” she admits.

“This is a reminder that we cannot rest on our past achievements. We must recognize the reality of the country we inhabit, which we all cherish for various reasons. The conservative movement’s relentless push over three decades speaks volumes about their determination. I hope this situation ignites a broader awareness that nothing is guaranteed. We must remain active in local elections and understand who holds power.”

Has becoming a mom fueled your drive?

“I wouldn’t say it’s made me more driven; I’ve been consistently angry for years. It’s just a reminder that we cannot afford to pause. If we don’t keep pushing for change, it will only worsen. We have to vote those in power out and become more informed about local elections. I always advocate for Fair Fight, and if you’re weary of donating or making calls, take a moment and keep going, because this is for our children and all children.”

How do you raise engaged and informed kids without instilling fear?

“It’s a complex question. My daughter is four and a half, and when the protests erupted following George Floyd’s murder, I explained the situation to her in a gentle way. We discussed the meaning behind the signs and talked about the differences in how people treat one another. It also led to discussions about death. It’s crucial to introduce topics like racism and sexism early, as our children will face these realities.”

Do you use specific language when discussing these topics with your daughter?

“I communicate with her as I would with any person. I allow her to express her emotions freely and ensure she understands that her feelings are valid. For instance, when she joked about my body, I embraced her humor while ensuring she feels valued and respected.”

While addressing serious topics like abortion and voting, Thompson also promotes her new show, which is based on the acclaimed graphic novel Y: The Last Man. “It’s a fascinating story set in a world where a pandemic causes all mammals with a Y chromosome to die, except for one man. It explores the intricate relationships among women in this new world.”

For more insights on home insemination and related topics, check out this other blog post. Additionally, for those looking to boost their fertility, Make a Mom offers valuable resources. If you’re interested in in vitro procedures, this is an excellent resource as well.

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In summary, Amber Thompson articulates her grave concerns regarding the Texas abortion law, emphasizing the need for continued activism and engagement in social issues. She also reflects on her parenting approach, aiming to raise informed and empathetic children.