Episode 111: Sustainable and Centered Abortion Activism

Today's podcast is essential for our humanity's well-being. I interview Kia Guarino, the executive director of Pro Choice Washington, to discuss how to manage our emotions and take purposeful action to fight for reproductive freedom. Kia gives us a clear snapshot of what is happen with abortion rights from a macro and micro level across the country and more specifically in Washington state. We discuss how to manage our emotions and stay politically active from a purposeful place and ditch the reactive energy that will  lead to burnout.  Kia also shares many ways to get involved and create impact. Take a listen, share this episode with a friend and check out the resources below.

Let's remember that taking care of yourself is essential during these times because the world needs each one of us to be showing up. Showing up doesn't have to be exhausting, but instead it can be empowering. If you are looking for more ways you can take care, check out Centered in the City so that you can have access to a holistic library of over 200 + mindfulness based resources at your fingertips whenever and wherever you are. Learn more and sign up for your 7-day free trial at CenteredintheCity.org.

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Kia Guarino (she/her) joined as executive director with Pro Choice Washington in October 2020 because of her dedication to the advancement of reproductive freedom and social justice. Kia joined Pro-Choice Washington from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, where she served as Program Officer for Family Planning and Gender Equality Advocacy since 2017. Kia brings a background of global health and international development, economics, policy, and advocacy, having previously worked with Albright Stonebridge Group, the Clinton Health Access Initiative, and Amnesty International. Kia also served as Program Manager for the Africa Region with Operation Smile, working across ten countries. In this role, Kia organized and implemented large-scale programs, as well as managed existing and launched new country offices in close partnership with local governments and key stakeholders. Kia earned a MsPH in Global Health, International Health Systems from Johns Hopkins School of Public Health and a MA in International Development and Economics from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. She also earned her BA in Communication Studies and International Studies from Boston College.

Resources:

• Finding Care: To find a legitimate provider and clinic, you can visit abortionfinder.org and  INeedAnA.com
• The Washington Department of Health also has good resources for finding an abortion in Washington state
• Abortion Funds: You can find donate to abortion funds in your area
• Our local fund is Northwest Abortion Access Fund, and you can donate here and sign up volunteer here
• Indigenous Women Rising is a national group that focuses on support abortion access to indigenous folks across the country
• Local Clinics (WA): To donate to local abortion clinics, like Cedar River Clinics, All Women’s Health, and All Women’s Care
• Local Policy & Legislative Change: Our rights