National Journal: "Why Abortion-Rights Activists Should Fear the Supreme Court"

A rather unsettling article appeared in the National Journal yesterday, and I won't sully it with excess commentary.  I just would like to take a moment to remind everyone of how fortunate we are to live in New York, but the ripple effect of an unfavorable ruling from the Supreme Court could be disastrous, even for us.  Therefore, without further ado, I recommend you all read this.

Why Abortion-Rights Activists Should Fear the Supreme CourtA high-court ruling is seen as a likely last-ditch effort to stop sweeping antiabortion legislation passed in Texas and other states. But counting on a win is a very risky gamble for the law’s opponents.
By Sophie Novack and Sam BakerMay 18, 2014
The abortion-rights movement is on the verge of a massive gamble.
The movement is trying to roll back a wave of state laws that have successfully curtailed access to abortion, and their best hope for doing so—perhaps their only hope for doing so—is likely a ruling from the Supreme Court. Advocates could soon get their wish: A Texas antiabortion law appears headed to the high court as soon as its next session, and a ruling against it could put other states' abortion restrictions on the shakiest of legal ground.
But it's also a move that could backfire: The advocates have no guarantee the Court will rule in their favor. The panel is divided and exceedingly difficult to forecast, and it could issue an unfavorable ruling that would not only sanction the Texas law—but also pave the legal way for new antiabortion laws nationwide.
"I think it is a huge risk," said Heather Busby, executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice Texas. "My concern is that at least four, if not five, justices don't have the same level of empathy for the burdens women face that we see on the ground."

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Let's Talk About Sex!

This Wednesday, May 7 at 7pm, Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood is hosting a film screening of Let's Talk About Sex. I have had the pleasure of seeing this film, and it really is illuminating. Of course, I personally find the subject matter fascinating, having always had an interest in how sexuality is approached in different cultures, and my continued bafflement of how it is regarded in many aspects of American life.  Countless studies have shown that a more direct approach in our dealings with teenagers and sex means that they (duh) have a much better understanding of the subject matter and will be better prepared.  Sounds pretty simple, but so many people simply can't deal with the concept. This film examines the contrast between the rather puritanical approach utilized by many American families, and the more practical method utilized by Europeans.  Which culture has fewer teen pregnancies and instances of STIs? I guess you'll have to check it out.  After the film, which is about an hour long, there will be a panel of experts to engage the audience in a discussion.  Please visit the Facebook event page and/or Eventbrite to find out more and RSVP.

From the Times Union:

"Let's Talk About Sex (The Movie)" is about more than just sex. The film focuses on sex and sexuality in today's society and how those attitudes affect teenagers. Director James Houston talks to teens and families about the subjects, and examines how other nations deal with protecting adolescent sexual health. The movie won the Youth Award at Spain's Mostra de Ciencia e Cinema Festival and was an official selection of the Provincetown International Film Festival. Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood will sponsor a free screening of the film this week. A panel discussion will follow, featuring College of Saint Rose Visiting Professor Ellen Cole, University at Albany Sexuality Educator/Counselor Carol Stenger and Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood President Chelly Hegan. 7 p.m. Wednesday. Free (donations accepted). Spectrum 8 Theatres, 290 Delaware Ave., Albany. 449-8995.

(Note from me: the Times Union write-up did not mention the inclusion of Dyrleif Bjarnadottir on the panel, a member of the UHPP Board of Directors, mother, and European who has been living in the US for quite some time, and has some interesting observations to share about the subject.)

Check out the trailer!