Changing Hearts & Minds, Building Power
This month marks three years since the devastating Dobbs decision—and every day since, we’ve shown up to reclaim our bodies, our voices, and our future. At the Latina Institute, we believe in the power of storytelling and education to spark action.
Whether rallying on the steps of the Supreme Court or training new Poderosas to lead in their communities, we know that organizing, educating, and mobilizing are how we fight back—and move forward. We do this work because our communities deserve dignity, care, and justice–and we can’t do it without you.
Our Education Team, On Their Movement Building Work
What communications tools are shared with Poderosas during Latina Institute trainings to help them speak about RJ in their community?
At trainings, we share best practices for talking about sensitive issues such as abortion, faith, and reproductive justice, emphasizing a perspective and approach based on empathy and respect. We practice how to construct compassionate, assertive, nonjudgmental messages, and how to develop the emotional intelligence so necessary to put these strategies into practice. Our communication tools are adapted to be accessible to our communities of color, culturally competent, bilingual, and up-to-date within the political context we are living in.
Why is uplifting stories that touch on the lived experiences of the Latine community an essential component of training?
Our powerful stories, told in a safe space and shared collectively, are a catalyst that empowers people to stand up and take action, to step out of their comfort zone and move toward action. Even in difficult times, we bring out the best in each of us, which is our power—the power to tell our stories without fear, breaking down the myths, stigmas, and stereotypes that the system wants to impose on our communities.
Hear From Our Team, From the Steps of the Supreme Court
What do you want people to know and understand about the gravity of the Medina v. Planned Parenthood South Atlantic Supreme Court Case and its potential consequences?
Lupe: This case has the potential to further strip away what little health care access remains for many in our communities. Many in our communities depend on Planned Parenthood as their sole source of health care. The case is also a wake-up call — a reminder of why we must train and educate the next generation of advocates now. We can’t wait for decisions to come down before we act. We must be prepared, informed, and mobilized to defend our rights and fight for our future.
What’s one moment from the rally that stuck with you, and why?
Policy Analyst: At the end of her speech during the rally, Rep. Ayanna Pressley led the crowd in a chant of “your doctor, your choice.” This moment has stuck with me in the weeks since, as it so clearly demonstrates the deep connection between this case and achieving reproductive justice. The case is about trying to restrict people’s freedom to make their own choices about their bodies and their lives, and for reproductive justice to prevail, that freedom must begin before our communities even enter the doctor’s office.
