Now, with the Mobilize Black campaign and Black in Repro (BIR) at the forefront, we’re rallying together for something that affects us all: the freedom to make our own medical decisions without interference from the government. Voting Yes on Amendment 4 this November means doing just that — taking back control of our bodies and our futures.
Abortion isn’t just a political issue; it’s a private and personal medical decision. It’s about individuals and their doctors deciding what’s best for their health, free from outside influence. Amendment 4 is about more than just protecting the right to abortion; it’s about safeguarding our families’ healthcare by preventing the government from imposing its will on our bodies. This is especially crucial for Black families, who have historically faced systemic barriers in accessing quality healthcare. By ensuring that personal medical decisions remain private, we protect our right to seek the treatment that best meets our needs.
For those of us who are of reproductive age or love someone who is, this fight is profoundly personal. Whether it’s about having children, deciding when is the right time or choosing not to have children at all, these decisions should be ours to make — not dictated by the government. We’ve encountered enough obstacles in our healthcare journey, now is the time to stand up and assert our right to make choices without interference from politicians.
The Yes on 4 campaign is about amplifying our voices. Together, we can uplift our community and build a movement that transcends political affiliation, religion, and personal background. We’re standing for reproductive freedom and the future of our families. When Black communities thrive, everyone benefits. This movement is powerful because it’s about reclaiming control over our bodies and lives, not just for ourselves but for generations to come.
As November approaches, Black in Repro is committed to ensuring our communities are informed, engaged, and ready to take action. That’s why we’re launching Community Learning Circles throughout October, bringing together people from all walks of life to discuss what’s at stake. These circles empower Black Floridians with the knowledge to make informed decisions about Amendment 4 and its implications for our future.
Upcoming Community Learning Circles:
Oct. 23
Black Men’s Learning Circle
A space for Black men to discuss advocacy for personal reproductive freedom and family well-being.
Oct. 24
Faith Leaders Event
Gathering for faith leaders to explore support for reproductive freedom within their communities.
Oct. 22 and 24
Black Caribbean and Hispanic Groups
Tailored discussions on how Amendment 4 impacts these communities.
Oct. 30
Birthworkers and Parents Circle
An essential space for birthworkers and parents to share experiences and advocate for healthcare that respects all of our choices.
These Community Learning Circles are more than just events — they’re platforms for vital conversations about equitable healthcare, our families future, and our economic well-being. Coming together allows us to build a movement that’s larger than any one of us, starting with each of us stepping into our power.
Voting Yes on 4 is essential for Black voters because it directly addresses government overreach in healthcare decisions. It allows us to end Florida’s current abortion ban and ensures medical choices remain between patients and doctors, free from political influence. This amendment does not change taxpayer funding for abortions or parental consent laws — it simply restores our right to choose. Voting Yes means advocating for your own freedom and the freedom of those you love.
Furthermore, voting Yes on 4 safeguards the financial futures of Black families. The ability to make informed decisions about when or whether to have children enables us to better manage our economic resources. When healthcare decisions are in our hands, we can mitigate the financial burdens that come from government restrictions — burdens that disproportionately affect our communities. Protecting our reproductive autonomy is vital for our economic stability and overall family health.
Let’s not forget we’re in this fight together. When we show up at the polls, we are part of a movement that’s rooted in hope and driven by the belief that we can create a future where our voices are heard, our rights are respected, and our communities thrive.
This is our moment to unite, educate, empower one another and reclaim control. The power to enact change is in our hands. When we vote Yes on Amendment 4, we’re voting for a future where our choices are respected, our families are strong, and our communities are healthy. Join us in this critical movement, and let’s make history together!
Sarah Foster is a full-spectrum doula, co-chair of the Central Florida Birth Network, and a volunteer with Black in Repro.
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This article appears in Oct 9-15, 2024.