Now is the time to invest in Colorado’s Family Planning Program

At both the ballot box and the Capitol, Coloradans have reaffirmed their commitment to reproductive justice in the past several years. In a post-Roe landscape, Colorado has positioned itself as a national leader in supporting policies and programs that allow people to access comprehensive family planning services, including abortion care, at low- to no-cost. However, the federal funds that support a critical reproductive health program have remained stagnant in recent years. While our providers proudly serve both Coloradans and out-of-state patients, Colorado must take steps to maintain and expand access to the reproductive health care services people need to ensure autonomy over their bodies. 

Welcome back to The West Steps! Today, we are joined by three guests who bring a wealth of knowledge and passion for reproductive justice: Lauren Smith, Director of Public Policy at Soul 2 Soul Sisters and Elephant Circle; Hunter Nelson, Policy Analyst at the Colorado Children’s Campaign; and Amanda Carlson, Abortion Fund Director at Cobalt Advocates. Our guests detail the current need for increased investments in the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s (CDPHE) Family Planning Program – an essential resource that helps thousands of Coloradans access critical care. Lauren, Hunter, and Amanda also detail racial and economic disparities in reproductive health access and outcomes – and why it is essential that we elevate the voices of Black, Brown, rural, and low-income communities in all reproductive justice efforts. Bodily autonomy is a fundamental human right, and it is essential that those who can become pregnant have resources and services readily available to make the best decisions for themselves and their futures. Join the Children’s Campaign’s family planning Action Alert and stand alongside advocates who are working to increase funding for this essential program.  

Resources 

• Family Planning Program Action Alert  
• Action Alert social media toolkit  
• Elephant Circle 
• Cobalt Advocates 
• Soul 2 Soul Sisters 
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