Women on Twitter are sharing their stories to help end the shame and stigma surrounding abortion.
Activists Lindy West, Amelia Bonow and Kimberly Morrison started the #ShoutYourAbortion hashtag on Sept. 19, in response to the news that the House voted to defund Planned Parenthood. West asked people on Twitter to use the hashtag to share how their lives have been impacted by safe, legal abortion.
My abortion was in '10 & the career I've built since then fulfills me & makes me better able to care for kids I have now. #ShoutYourAbortion
— Lindy West (@thelindywest) September 20, 2015
Women who have had abortions told their stories, and allies used the hashtag to show support for a woman's right to choose. Anti-abortion activists have attempted to co-opt the hashtag, showing just how common it is to shame and belittle women who have had abortions. The women who are using the hashtag to speak out in the face of insults, trolls and threats are a powerful reminder of how important these conversations are.
See more tweets from #ShoutYourAbortion below, and learn more about the hashtag here.
Honestly, my abortion at 20 was one of the first responsible, non-self-destructive, grown-ass choices I ever made. #ShoutYourAbortion
— Jessica Blankenship (@blanketboat) September 21, 2015
Ex partner of 4 yrs forced me into 2 abortions. My life is better now but only through the support of PP. #IStandWithPP #ShoutYourAbortion
— PeeWee (@msmaris) September 19, 2015
I was 20, in school and my bc failed. I did not want a child. It was the right choice and I've never regretted it. #shoutyourabortion
— Tame Lioness (@tame_lioness) September 21, 2015
My abortion was the most compassionate option for the baby and me. #ShoutYourAbortion https://t.co/FZuyLNjFi7
— Gail Swanson (@practicallyUX) September 20, 2015
I had an abortion when my son was 4 & I stand by my decision b/c it was best for my family #ShoutYourAbortion
— Samantha Updegrave (@scupdegrave) September 20, 2015
I've had 2 abortions. I don't have to justify or explain them to anybody. My life is more valuable than a potential life. #shoutyourabortion
— Clementine Ford (@clementine_ford) September 21, 2015
My birth mother put me up for adoption. Her autonomy was respected. I provide abortions b/c I respect that autonomy. #shoutyourabortion
— Leah Torres, MD (@LeahNTorres) September 20, 2015
My abortion was in '07. I didn't want kids then and still don't. I'm managing my own wellness. #ShoutYourAbortion
— Mindi (@findi_mue) September 20, 2015
Had an abortion at 18, went on complete 2 degrees & live a fulfilling life. It was right decision in my circumstances. #ShoutYourAbortion
— Lure (@therealkuri) September 21, 2015
18 & broke + pregnant = bad. Abortion + 3yrs later + married + stable job = a great life for my baby. #ShoutYourAbortion
— Sophia (@SophiaSkySays) September 21, 2015
I could not have given that child the life it deserved. I would not have been the mother I want to be. #ShoutYourAbortion #IStandWithPP
— ~big soft mush~ (@softmush) September 20, 2015
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