Loretta Ross

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Loretta Ross The Laura Flanders Show 2017

Loretta Ross is an American academic, activist, and public speaker known for her work in reproductive justice, human rights, and social justice. She is a prominent figure in the movement for women's rights and has been influential in shaping the discourse around intersectionality and reproductive health.

Early Life and Education

Loretta Ross was born in Texas. She attended Howard University where she became involved in activism. Her early experiences with racism and sexism influenced her commitment to social justice.

Career

Ross began her career in the 1970s, working with organizations such as the National Organization for Women (NOW) and the National Black Women's Health Project. She co-founded the SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective in 1997, which aims to improve institutional policies and systems that impact the reproductive lives of marginalized communities.

Reproductive Justice

Ross is credited with coining the term "reproductive justice" in 1994, which expands the conversation around reproductive rights to include a broader range of social justice issues. This framework addresses the intersection of reproductive rights with issues such as economic justice, immigrant rights, and LGBTQ+ rights.

Academic Work

Ross has served as a visiting professor at various institutions, including Smith College and Hampshire College. Her academic work focuses on the intersections of race, gender, and class in the context of reproductive justice.

Publications

Ross has authored and co-authored several books and articles on reproductive justice and social justice. Some of her notable works include:

• Reproductive Justice: An Introduction (co-authored with Rickie Solinger)
• Undivided Rights: Women of Color Organize for Reproductive Justice

Awards and Recognition

Loretta Ross has received numerous awards for her activism and contributions to social justice, including the Gloria Award from the Ms. Foundation for Women and the Feminist Majority Foundation's Eleanor Roosevelt Award.

See Also

• Reproductive rights
• Intersectionality
• Social justice
• Women's rights