Abortion Under Attack: Women on the Challenges Facing Choice

by Krista Jacob (Editor), Gloria Feldt (Afterword), Rebecca Walker (Foreword by)

The issue of reproductive rights has taken center stage in recent months with the appointment of two conservative Supreme Court justices, which threatens Roe v. Wade, the supreme court case that legalized abortion in 1973.

Abortion Under Attack addresses a spectrum of personal and social influences, ranging from dealing with remorse to the impact that economics, race, and culture have on a woman's right to choose. Krista Jacob, longtime advocate for reproductive rights and former abortion counselor, has compiled an impressive collection of writings by a diverse group of pro-choice activists who go beyond the same old analysis of reproductive rights to present the current issues facing the pro-choice movement. Feminist activist Amy Richards challenges supporters of reproductive rights to adopt language that strips conservatives of their moral authority as defenders of �life.” Author Laura Fraser writes about the dangers of a government that restricts Mifepristone, a drug that has proven effective in treating fibroids, endometriosis, and depression, because of its controversial use in terminating pregnancies. Gloria Feldt, the former President of Planned Parenthood, writes about how her personal experiences led to her role as a leader in the fight for reproductive justice, and offers strategies for preserving legal abortion.

Genres: Feminism, Nonfiction

264 pages, Paperback

First published October 3, 2006

Reviews

[eRin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great anthology about the current status of reproductive rights in the United States. Essays deal with language, legislation, history of reproductive rights, personal experiences with abortion, so-called "partial-birth" abortion, the role of religion, and especially the anti-choice attack on reproductive rights. The most notable essay in my opinion is written by Dr. Victoria Tepe entitled "Abortion By Any Other Name." Tepe easily explains the so-called "partial-birth abrotion" ban and effectively details why banning the procedure is so detrimental. The anthology encourages contemplative thought on the issues followed by action. Highly recommended for anyone who is concerned about the future of reproductive rights.

[Emelda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, conflicting, thought provoking and brilliant. I love this book and the various views presented therein- some that you would never think to hear in a "pro choice" book (what about fetal pain? what about women who were forced to have abortions?) along with topics regarding the usual suspects (rightwingers=bad, etc.), this book rocks.

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was beautifully put together. It is a collection of many insights, all sorted and presented to the reader in a manner which allows for interpretation and continued education. I recommend this book, most definitely.

[Kendra · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting, intense read on the pro-choice movement, and then need to change some things and get ahead of the anti-choice rhetoric and crap. Intense reading, excellent articles, very thought-provoking!

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Essays on challenges facing choice, inside and outside of the choice/reproductive justice movement(s).

[jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

the perfect collection of essays just when i need them.

[Sandra Clark · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very good book that mostly focuses on abortion in the US and allows for a complex and sometimes contentious space for pro-choice voices.