Network to defend reproductive rights

Pro-choice activists came together here on May 6 to launch the Detroit Action Network for Reproductive Rights (DANFORR), a coalition of individuals and groups committed to carrying out a struggle-oriented approach to defending and expanding women’s reproductive rights in Michigan and nationally. Participants included a representative from Planned Parenthood and an administrator of a Detroit-area reproductive services/abortion provider clinic.

A lively discussion and exchange of ideas and action proposals took place at the group’s initial organizing meeting. Members agreed to do extensive educational outreach as well as mount demonstrations and other pro-choice actions.

A new South Dakota law banning virtually all abortions in that state was the topic of much discussion, including the courageous plans of Oglala Sioux leader Cecelia Fire Thunder to build a women’s clinic on the historic Pine Ridge Reservation in the state. Fire Thunder is a leader of the South Dakota Campaign for Healthy Families, which is petitioning voters to place the new law on the November ballot in hopes of overturning it.

DANFORR plans to organize a rally in solidarity with Fire Thunder and the women of South Dakota as well as raise funds for the new clinic. Organizers also decided to hold a press conference and rally at the end of June, just before the no-choice South Dakota law goes into effect on July 1, to say they will not allow Michigan to join South Dakota in taking away the right of women to choose.

Other action ideas will be discussed and implemented at the next organizing meeting of DANFORR on May 19. To get involved or for more information, call (313) 378-2369 or e-mail [email protected].