Organizations Prioritizing Abortion Access for Latino Communities

Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15, provides an opportunity to reflect on sexual and reproductive health care access within Latino communities. This article highlights six organizations that are at the forefront of centering abortion access for Hispanic and Spanish-speaking individuals, especially in the face of recent Supreme Court decisions that affect reproductive rights.

1. National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice

The Latina Institute is a national organization committed to ensuring equal access to reproductive health for Latinas/xs. They recognize that Latinas/xs face unique barriers rooted in societal ideologies and government policies. Their work involves building an activist base, advocating for policy change, and promoting cultural change to fuel a larger reproductive justice movement.

2. California Latinas for Reproductive Justice (CLRJ)

CLRJ is a reproductive justice organization that emphasizes the experiences of Latina/xs. Their mission encompasses policy advocacy, community engagement, community-informed research, and strategic communication. CLRJ recognizes the intersections with other social issues, promoting social justice and human rights for Latina/x women, girls, and the Latinx community as a whole.

3. Colorado Organization for Latina Opportunity and Reproductive Rights (COLOR)

COLOR is a community-rooted nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to resources for Latinas/xs to manage their physical and mental health. They prioritize Latinas/xs’ autonomy to make decisions about their futures. COLOR operates in a state where abortion remains accessible, and they actively advocate for reproductive healthcare rights.

4. Frontera Fund

Frontera Fund plays a crucial role in Texas, where abortion has been severely restricted since July 1, 2022. This abortion fund provides financial and practical support to individuals in the Rio Grande Valley, a region predominantly Hispanic or Latino/a. As of September 2022, services were temporarily paused due to legal challenges, but donations are still welcomed.

5. Catholics for Choice (Español)

Recognizing that many Hispanic Catholics may face unique barriers to abortion care, Catholics for Choice launched a Spanish-language site. Their advocacy includes countering anti-choice movements, addressing disparities in health insurance coverage, advocating for bilingual and culturally competent medical providers, and repositioning religious teachings to support informed and responsible decisions.

6. AbortionFinder (en Español)

AbortionFinder offers a comprehensive, national database of abortion providers in both English and Spanish. This confidential resource helps individuals across the United States find suitable abortion providers based on location, age, and pregnancy stage, ensuring privacy and accessibility.

As conversations surrounding abortion access continue, it is crucial to support these organizations and speak openly about the importance of reproductive rights, reducing stigma, and empowering individuals to make informed choices about their bodies.