avatarSamantha Lazar

Summary

Samantha Lazar recounts her early exposure to political activism through her mother's influence in the Pro-Choice movement, culminating in her own experience with abortion years later.

Abstract

Samantha Lazar was introduced to political activism at a young age when her mother, a strong advocate for women's rights, took her to a Pro-Choice rally in Topeka during the late 1980s. The rally, which was a blend of art, music, and community, left a lasting impression on Lazar, who felt empowered despite not fully understanding the complexities of the abortion debate. Her mother's actions taught her about the ongoing struggle for democracy and the importance of being informed and engaged in political issues. Years later, Lazar drew strength from this experience and her mother's support when she had an abortion, facing protesters outside the clinic. Lazar reflects on her journey as a mother, wife, educator, and writer, emphasizing the bravery required to share her personal story.

Opinions

  • The author's mother instilled in her the values of independence, confidence, and passion for women's rights.
  • Political activism, as experienced at the rally, is portrayed as an inspiring and positive environment that can empower individuals.
  • The author believes that democracy requires constant vigilance and engagement, as it is continually challenged by those seeking to exert power.
  • Despite the legality of abortion, the need to rally and protest indicates ongoing opposition and the necessity to protect women's reproductive rights.
  • The personal experience of abortion is shared with a sense of empowerment, supported by the strength and solidarity of the Pro-Choice community and her mother's support.
  • Writing about her abortion experience is seen as an act of bravery and a testament to the support systems that bolster individuals facing such personal and political challenges.

Keep Abortion Safe and Legal

When I Met Politics

Photo by chloe s. on Unsplash

My mom believes strongly in women’s rights, and she raised me to be independent, confident, and passionate.

When I was 16, she took me to a political rally in Topeka. We marched for the Pro-Choice movement of the late 1980s. We listened to speakers who were adamant about keeping the government’s business out of women’s bodies. I signed petitions for Planned Parenthood, and I pinned my souvenir sticker, “Keep Abortion Safe and Legal” to my bulletin board in my bedroom.

This introduction to political activism was truly exciting. There was art and music and poetry. There were children on parents’ shoulders. There were sisters and friends and positive vibes, and I loved it. It was a party for a cause.

Even though I did not fully understand what abortion was at that time, I remember feeling empowered and bold. I thought by taking a stand, I was an adult doing amazing things. I did not really understand at the time WHY people had to march and chant and make signs for something that was already legal.

This is the way my mom showed me how democracy is supposed to work and how it is always, always a fight against people who want to hold power over the population. I began then to pay attention in history class, to pay attention to leaders, and to follow what was happening in the world.

It takes a lot of bravery for me to write about the abortion I had 9 years later, but I knew I had the strength of that rally and my mom’s supportive arm to lean on as we walked into the clinic past the shaming protesters trying to stop us.

© Samantha Lazar 2019

Samantha Lazar writes poetry, fiction, and essays in celebration of being a mom, wife, educator, writer, & lover of life.

Abortion
Activism
Politics
Pro Choice
Poliprompt
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