We've had abortions!

We've had abortions!

We've had abortions! is a manifesto published in the United States in 1972, advocating for the legalization of abortion. The manifesto was signed by 53 prominent American women, including Gloria Steinem, Nora Ephron, and Susan Sontag. It was a significant moment in the women's rights movement and played a crucial role in the fight for reproductive rights.

Background

In the early 1970s, abortion was illegal in most states in the United States. The women's liberation movement was gaining momentum, and activists were pushing for changes in laws that restricted women's control over their own bodies. The publication of "We've had abortions!" was a bold statement that challenged the stigma surrounding abortion and called for its decriminalization.

Content

The manifesto was a short but powerful declaration. It began with the statement, "We have had abortions," followed by the names of the signatories. The women who signed the manifesto were from various fields, including journalism, literature, and activism. By publicly admitting to having had abortions, they aimed to destigmatize the procedure and highlight the need for safe and legal access to abortion services.

Impact

The publication of "We've had abortions!" had a significant impact on the public discourse surrounding abortion. It brought attention to the issue and helped to galvanize support for the pro-choice movement. The manifesto was published in the context of a broader push for reproductive rights, which eventually led to the landmark Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade in 1973, which legalized abortion nationwide.

Legacy

The manifesto remains an important document in the history of the women's rights movement. It is often cited as an example of the power of collective action and the importance of speaking out against injustice. The courage of the women who signed the manifesto continues to inspire activists fighting for reproductive rights and gender equality.

See also

• Abortion in the United States
• Reproductive rights
• Women's liberation movement
• Roe v. Wade
• Pro-choice movement