Reproductive justice is “the human right to maintain personal bodily autonomy, have children, not have children, and parent the children we have in safe and sustainable communities,” according to SisterSong: Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective. The term “reproductive justice” was coined by a group of Black women in June 1994, broadening the view of issues related to sexual and reproductive health far beyond that of white-led reproductive health and rights organizations. Today, reproductive health, rights, and justice organizations work together to improve gaps in access and promote inclusive practices and policy solutions.  

Racial justice is a core tenant of reproductive justice and an important movement in its own right. Racism permeates the nation’s health care system, from discriminatory policies to inequities in resource distribution and underrepresentation in medical fields. All of these factors lead to widespread health disparities between people of color and their white peers. Racial justice movements push all Americans, including health care providers and administrators, to tackle these issues head-on and work for a more just future.  

NFPRHA’s  Five-Part Anti-Racism Webinar Series

NFPRHA  hosted a five-part series on racism and its impact on public health to its membership. We hope these conversations inspire you in our collective work toward creating a more just and equitable health care system.