From choice, a world of possibilities

News from the Region

Below are news stories, blog posts, and other resources released this week regarding sexual and reproductive health Latin America, North America, and the Caribbean:

Planned Obsolescence: How to drive Planned Parenthood out of the abortion business. | Slate

Transforming a Culture of LGBT Discrimination in Venezuela

Despite anti-discrimination legislation to protect the rights of sexual minorities in Venezuela, sexual orientation and gender identity remain taboo and sensitive issues. In 2008, Venezuela's Supreme Court ruled that no individual may be discriminated against or treated in an unequal fashion because of their sexual orientation. However, the following year, 19 gay men and lesbian women were arbitrarily arrested, verbally and physically abused, and detained by the police.

Moving Sexual Rights from the Margins to the Mainstream

The freedom to express our sexuality is an integral part of our happiness and well-being. However, people whose sexual orientation or gender identity does not conform to majority norms often face stigma and discrimination by the state and by society. Over 70 countries criminalize same-sex sexual acts between consenting adults, and in countries where the legal environment is more LGBT-friendly, institutions still hold negative biases and impose restrictions on sexuality.

Take a Bow for Today's Komen Victory

Never doubt that your voice makes a difference. Thanks to your swift action, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation has issued a statement reversing the decision that de-funded Planned Parenthood.

We are thankful for all of the support we received. As always, it’s individuals like you who demonstrate the need—and overwhelming support—for health services and policies that meet the real-life needs of women and young people. And together, we’ve achieved success:

News from the Region

Below are news stories, blog posts, and other resources released this week regarding sexual and reproductive health Latin America, North America, and the Caribbean:

A Message to Komen: Don’t Politicize Breast Exams | IPPF/WHR

Komen Official Resigns, Site Hacked, Planned Parenthood Surges | ColorLines

Don't Politicize Breast Exams

Yesterday, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the world's largest breast cancer charity, announced it will no longer provide funding to Planned Parenthood affiliates that provide cancer screenings to low-income women. Today, they are silently witnessing the depth of the public's outrage.

Jamaican Activist Honored for Leadership in Challenging Homophobia

On January 29, the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) presented its first annual David Kato Vision and Voice Award to Maurice Tomlinson. Tomlinson, AIDS-Free World’s legal advisor on marginalized groups, received the award for his leadership in challenging homophobia in Jamaica. Below is an excerpt from Tomlinson’s speech.

A Comprehensive Health Strategy Can End Cervical Cancer Deaths

In January, health providers throughout the United States recognized Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, reminding women and adolescent girls of the steps needed to prevent this disease.

What is the State of Abortion Rights in Latin America and the Caribbean?

January 22nd marks the 39th anniversary of one of the most significant legal decisions of the 20th century, Roe v. Wade. This landmark ruling from the United States Supreme Court legalized abortion and changed the course of history for women in this country. Yet women in Latin America and the Caribbean continue to struggle for this basic reproductive right.

News from the Region

Below are news stories, blog posts, and other resources released this week regarding sexual and reproductive health Latin America, North America, and the Caribbean:

Climate Change Activists Need To Talk About Population Too | National Geographic

A call for young people to ‘get angry’ about global warming | Global Post