The Activist Council: 10 Years of Activism & Community

Some people search for a purpose and community throughout their entire lives. Others may have always known what community they’d like to be a part of from the very beginning. I found my passion and cause early in my life, and a strong community of activists, as a result of constant attacks and attempts to infringe on my access to reproductive health and the right to make my own personal healthcare decisions.

I joined the Planned Parenthood of NYC Action Fund Activist Council over a year ago, finding an outlet for my passion and cause to fight for reproductive freedom for all New Yorkers. Longing for a safe space where I could engage in both activism and discussion through an intersectional feminist lens, I happily found my place. In a political environment that continues to make efforts to defund Planned Parenthood using false claims and legislation that would cut people off from the care they need, the Activist Council continues fighting for reproductive health, rights, and justice. Joining a network of people committed to building power with Planned Parenthood, I found a sanctuary in the Activist Council. I also found much, much more.

Working with a volunteer group advocating for reproductive freedom is no small task, but with over 1,000 trained AC members, we’re capable of impact. Since joining the Activist Council, I’ve taken action alongside other activists in a number of ways – I’ve talked with community members across the five boroughs sharing information about sexual and reproductive health care services, I’ve canvassed in support of elected officials who stand up for Planned Parenthood’s mission, lobbied in Albany to support passage of the Women’s Equality Act, and even marched in NYC PRIDE as a crowd favorite, Pillamina (a birth control costume!).

A pivotal moment for me was when I had the opportunity to rally alongside hundreds in D.C. as the SCOTUS heard the historic case for Hobby Lobby v. Sebelius. As I stood in solidarity with supporters and activists in the snow, I realized how we were all there for a cause much larger than ourselves. I realized my presence was important, that I was taking action for more than just my own rights. I was there for everyone rallying there with me, but I would also be there for everyone who could not. It was an indication of why I needed to show up, why I needed to keep showing up.

Working with a network of activists from different backgrounds united by a single cause has been an invaluable experience. I’ve learned to work productively and respectfully within a group, to hold myself accountable for the language I use, and to respect everyone’s lived experiences. Beyond the issues that we are tackling, the manner in which we work allows us to develop a sense of community while feeling safe in our spaces. I’ve been able to grow individually, to be more mindful of others and to be more inclusive in my activism.

Since the Activist Council began 10 years ago, we have grown from five members to 1,000, a powerful, dynamic community with workgroups tackling different issues. The Political Action Group lobbies, phone banks, and creates support for legislation and candidates who support reproductive health and rights.  The Field Group acts as the face of the Activist Council, engaging with communities and maintaining a presence in a multitude of environments. Escorts help our patients feel welcomed and safe as they enter our health centers. Fundraising plans spectacular events like Summer, Sex & Spirits. Sex Ed group advocates for sexual education reform, while sparking conversations on topics ranging from inclusivity to abortion stigma.

The Activist Council works on so many different issues that all have one major end goal: to make sure all people have equal access to the resources and information they need to take control of their sexual and reproductive health, and of their futures. It only makes sense that in a time where politicians are trying to seize these rights, activists are taking that power back and leading the conversation on reproductive health.

The Activist Council is turning 10 this year and we are celebrating and reflecting on what we’ve accomplished. Ten years since a small group of 5 decided to take initiative. Ten years of advocacy, community organizing, rallying in support of and against court cases and politicians. Ten years of building relationships with communities and making our services more accessible. In the continuous fight toward reproductive rights and justice, I know that more activists will find their place in the Activist Council as we continue for the next ten years.

As we celebrate our past, we invite you to join us for the next era of our work to advance reproductive health and rights. Learn more at www.PPNYCAction.org/ActivistCouncil.

By Eda Deniz, Planned Parenthood of NYC Action Fund Activist Council Member