Washington, D.C. — The issue of abortion too often triggers polarizing debate that sheds no light on the real-life experiences of women. Politicians pass laws restricting access to abortion—more than 230 state laws in the past four years—while ignoring women’s experiences and views. More and more women are speaking openly about abortion, but their voices tend to be drowned out by the heated rhetoric of warring political factions.
On Thursday, July 30, the Center for American Progress will host Aspen Baker—Founder and Executive Director of Exhale, an organization that aims to change the culture around abortion from stigma and shame toward support and respect—for a discussion on the importance of hearing the diverse views of women rather than divisive rhetoric in the debates on abortion.
After her own abortion at age 24, Aspen Baker wanted a safe and nonjudgmental space where she could talk about her experience. After being unable to find such a space, she founded Exhale in 2000. Fifteen years after its founding, Exhale is at the forefront of groundbreaking projects that promote dialogue rather than dogma around abortion. More and more women are now speaking openly about abortion, and organizations such as Exhale are helping a more diverse set of values and voices contribute to this discussion.
Copies of Aspen Baker’s new book, Pro-Voice: How to Keep Listening When the World Wants a Fight, will be available for purchase at the event.
WHO:
Welcome:
Carolyn Davis, Policy Analyst, Faith and Progressive Policy Initiative, Center for American Progress
Featured guest:
Aspen Baker, Founder and Executive Director, Exhale
Moderator:
Heidi Williamson, Senior Policy Analyst, Women’s Health and Rights Program, Center for American Progress
WHEN:
Thursday, July 30, 2015
12:00 p.m. ET – 1:00 p.m. ET
A light lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m.
WHERE:
Center for American Progress
1333 H St. NW, 10th Floor
Washington, D.C., 20005
Map & Directions
RSVP:
Click here to RSVP.
For more information, contact Chelsea Kiene at [email protected] or 202.478.5328.
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