Katie Klabusich

Host

Why Do We Need Abortion Funds?

Jan 16, 2014·164 visitors

Lindsay Rodriguez

Cohost

Stage· 314 messages

Jan 16, 2014

"The right to choose an abortion is meaningless without access to abortion services," LilithFund.orgn87% of US counties have no abortion provider & 56% of women live in a state "hostile" to abortion. "Choice" is becoming an increasingly name-only term & more patients are turning to their local Abortion Fund.nTexas currently has a section the size of France w/o providers. Lindsay Rodriguez, president of Lilith Fund, is joining me to explain who needs financial help & why they should get it.

Katie Klabusich · 11:29 PM

★ Spotlighted from Tawkers Admin

“Welcome to the comment section of the Tawk, where audience members can share their thoughts about the main conversation happening on the left. Don't by shy! Entering questions and comments is the only way to get the attention of the two Hosts on stage!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:01 AM

Hi, everyone! Thanks for coming to “Why Do We Need Abortion Funds?” with the fantastic Lilith Fund president, Lindsay Rodriguez!

Katie Klabusich · 1:01 AM

Real quick, if you’re new to Tawkers, Lindsay and I will be chatting on the left. And if you’re signed in (it only takes two minutes to set up a profile!), you can add comments/questions on the right. Those are only seen by people who are signed in.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:01 AM

Hi thanks for having me!

Katie Klabusich · 1:02 AM

Hooray!

Katie Klabusich · 1:02 AM

Lindsay and I can spotlight comments to toss them into our conversation for everyone to see, so be sure to “thumbs-up” anything you want us to respond to! (That also makes it easier for us to see them.)

Katie Klabusich · 1:02 AM

As an activist, I get a lot of questions about not just my motivation, but also the motivation of the organizations I work with. After the Texas telethon, I started getting questions about abortion funds. What are they, why do they exist, who uses th

Katie Klabusich · 1:02 AM

them, etc.

Katie Klabusich · 1:02 AM

With the continued assault on reproductive healthcare (anyone following #ProtectTheZone on twitter??), abortion funds are only escalating in importance. The more people know about them and what they do, the more help they’re able to give!

Katie Klabusich · 1:03 AM

So, tonight, Lindsay has graciously donated an hour of her time to answer every question you’ve never been able to ask about abortion access and funding! Thanks so much, Lindsay!

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:03 AM

Happy to do so

Katie Klabusich · 1:03 AM

How did you get involved with reproductive rights/justice in the first place?

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:04 AM

It's always been an important issue to me. I feel strongly that the right to control one's own body and set the circumstances of our lives and families is the very cornerstone of autonomy.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:05 AM

I donated to some abortion funds and thought the idea was great. I was really happy to find out that Texas also had abortion funds and that they were doing pivotal work in the communities that are near and dear to my heart.

Katie Klabusich · 1:05 AM

That they are, especially with the current "climate."

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:05 AM

I definitely have known plenty of people who didn't have the access to choice, or who felt pressure to not exercise their choice, and it's an issue that means a lot to me, and continues to mean more every day with our political climate here

Katie Klabusich · 1:06 AM

What you're fighting in Texas is truly remarkable. And unprecedented as far as I know in the post-Roe era.

Katie Klabusich · 1:06 AM

What do people say when they find out how you spend your time?

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:07 AM

Most people are very supportive. Most people, even pro-choice activists, don't always know that we exist, and once they find out exactly why we do, I tend to think it's an easy decision to support abortion funds.

Katie Klabusich · 1:07 AM

(I see some abortion funders in our tawkers chatroom -- feel free to jump in anytime!)

Katie Klabusich · 1:07 AM

That's what I was wondering. I didn't know about abortion funds until I moved to NYC.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:07 AM

If you say you are in favor of someone being able to choose to have an abortion, it's not a large jump to see that you can only exercise that choice if you have the financial resources.

Katie Klabusich · 1:08 AM

Exactly.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:08 AM

I count myself in that number! I actually donated to funds outside Texas before I knew they existed here! That's why we do all we can to spread the word about our work.

Katie Klabusich · 1:08 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“i never heard of an abortion fund until Lilith Fund found me on twitter.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:09 AM

Are people outside of reproductive justice work surprised to find out they're needed?

Katie Klabusich · 1:09 AM

★ Spotlighted from Ted Gavin

“Honestly, a little bit. Particularly considering the fundraising done by providers. It's an unfortunate secret that this is a thing.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:10 AM

I think so. Even people who work toward abortion rights are often surprised to find out how much abortions cost, and that some of our clients are juggling paying for rent, or food, or childcare, and trying to make ends meet

Katie Klabusich · 1:10 AM

Agreed, Ted! (Thanks for popping in!) I was actually surprised and relieved to discover that abortion funds existed.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:10 AM

and then when they need an abortion, it can be a choice between very difficult decisions

Katie Klabusich · 1:10 AM

And then in Texas especially you're also talking bout expensive logistics.

Katie Klabusich · 1:10 AM

What exactly does Lilith Fund fund?

Katie Klabusich · 1:10 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“i consider myself now an "abortion fund evangelist" bc i will bring up the need to fund in any and all social situations. people assume it's a 'taxpayer funded thing' most of the time.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:11 AM

Awesome, Kat!!

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:11 AM

absolutely. because of a number of reasons spotlighted in texas including geographic distance, poverty, and lack of health access, this is really an area hardest hit by abortion restrictions

Katie Klabusich · 1:11 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“Are there abortion funds in every state? If not, are there national funds where women can seek funding?”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:12 AM

there is a national network of abortion funds, of which we are a member, there are funds in almost every state, but not all

Katie Klabusich · 1:12 AM

@Natalie -- you can find the whole list of sister orgs here: http://www.fundabortionnow.org

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:12 AM

http://fundabortionnow.org/

Katie Klabusich · 1:12 AM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“i used these people. very quick,simple and easy - http://www.mariestopes.org.uk/”

Katie Klabusich · 1:12 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Natalie: if you are on twitter: @abortionfunds will help direct you to your state if there is one. currently there are more than 30 funds. :)”

Katie Klabusich · 1:12 AM

Ha! Minds and such. ;)

Katie Klabusich · 1:12 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“hahaha! we all said the same thing. <3”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:12 AM

they do great work both helping support existing funds and helping set up new ones. we love NNAF!!!

Katie Klabusich · 1:12 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“Thank you.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:12 AM

I think what I've found SUPER amazing about abortion funds is how well they work together.

Katie Klabusich · 1:13 AM

That's almost unheard of in organizations.

Katie Klabusich · 1:13 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“Is that another RI person I see!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:13 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“it was the NNAF that helped Lilith Fund find me when i randomly stumbled upon @abortionfunds on twitter!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:13 AM

NYAAF did a fundraiser for Texas when HB2 passed and I was like "WHAT? Awesome!"

Katie Klabusich · 1:13 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“Drew from Whole Woman's Health here. We are super, super grateful for Lilith and all of the work that they do for our patients. And thanks for holding this "tawk"!”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:13 AM

It is really refreshing! I think the nature of our work means that we are very supportive of others because we know that these issues really transcend borders.

Katie Klabusich · 1:13 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“i love Whole Woman's Health and Drew. <3”

Katie Klabusich · 1:13 AM

I think that should be more common!

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:14 AM

I also love WWH! And Drew!

Katie Klabusich · 1:14 AM

The rallying to immediate need is impressive.

Katie Klabusich · 1:14 AM

Drew -- I already sent you this, but we're glad it was a false alarm in Austin today.

Katie Klabusich · 1:14 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“Do women apply to the funds directly or are they referred by the clinics after they make an appointment?”

Katie Klabusich · 1:14 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“<3”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:14 AM

We really are a broad coalition of orgs bringing different issues from all over the country, and globe, to the table.

Katie Klabusich · 1:14 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“Both, Natalie.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:14 AM

Good question from @Nataline -- how do people find Lilith?

Katie Klabusich · 1:14 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“We are too. Thanks, Katie!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:15 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“i really find my "tribe" in Lilith Fund. truly, these are my family, my people, my tribe. cheesy sentiments but they changed my entire life. :)”

Katie Klabusich · 1:15 AM

★ Spotlighted from Steph Herold

“Thanks for all your amazing work, Lindsay & Lilith Fund!”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:15 AM

For the Lilith Fund, we have a hotline. Most people are referred to the hotline when they visit a clinic and they tell them they cannot afford an abortion. Some find us through our website, however.

Katie Klabusich · 1:15 AM

Steph is a badass abortion funder herself at NYAAF. ;)

Katie Klabusich · 1:15 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“We send our patients to the hotline when they ask for funding during their initial appointment when they make it over the phone.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:16 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Natalie: a lot of the clinics we work with will refer their patients to us. we get a lot via Google too though.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:16 AM

Definitely! NYAAF is so great and has been super supportive of Lilith.

Katie Klabusich · 1:17 AM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“i still find it hard to believe that this topic is still around today. how hard can it be to pay for something like this? its so different here in the uk”

Katie Klabusich · 1:17 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“i would like to publicly credit Steph Herold for actually making me the activist i am today. she pointed me to NNAF and abortion activism when she had her handle as "iamdrtiller" which i found after Dr. Tiller's murder. she got my ball rolling!”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:17 AM

We fund patients who have appointments and so most of them have seen or talked to a clinic already. Our partner clinics are a pivotal part of promoting abortion access.

Katie Klabusich · 1:17 AM

Gotcha. So usually patients have been seen, find out how expensive it is, and then seek you out.

Katie Klabusich · 1:17 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“Excellent, thank you. We are looking for ways to support funds in our state. The more we know the better we can plan.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:17 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“where are you at Natalie?”

Katie Klabusich · 1:18 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“Indiana”

Katie Klabusich · 1:18 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“Yes, Lilith is one of our top abortion funders, especially when it comes to our patients in Texas (where the majority of our clinics are located).”

Katie Klabusich · 1:18 AM

★ Spotlighted from Steph Herold

“You're making me blush, Kat. Thank you! <3”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:18 AM

That's a good question Lucy. In the US, the stigma that surrounds abortion is often quite different than it is in different parts of the world.

Katie Klabusich · 1:19 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“We always offer Lilith and NAF first when they ask us to help them with funding for their procedure.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:19 AM

★ Spotlighted from Ted Gavin

“This is outstanding. Are there any US national funding platforms that participate in this - either directly or by funding the funders?”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:19 AM

Because of that, it can be difficult for our clients to talk to their families, friends or support networks, although often many are surprised by how supportive their family can be. We have a culture of silence and shame around abortion, which

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:19 AM

we work to break down in conversations like these

Katie Klabusich · 1:20 AM

Yeah, my situation was pretty supportive -- and I still found the logistics frustrating with a clinic DOWN THE STREET. I can't imagine the hurtles happening three years later (now).

Katie Klabusich · 1:20 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“hey Natalie, per the NNAF site, there is no Indiana abortion fund- i know that Carolina and Arizona both started their own. you should start one! :D”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:21 AM

Exactly. It can be a very daunting task. We're often talking to clients when they're at a difficult time, and they are so glad to talk to someone who is supportive of them and trusts them to make their own decisions regarding their healthcare

Katie Klabusich · 1:21 AM

Lindsay -- do you know the answer to Ted's question? Do people just donate to their local fund?

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:21 AM

Ted, you can donate to NNAF and they support the individual funds, or you can support your local fund.

Katie Klabusich · 1:21 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“We have one local city fund about an hour south of the capital. We have discussed starting a fund, but we lack non profit status at this time.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:22 AM

Some clinics, like Whole Women's Health, have a fund set up to help their patients as well.

Katie Klabusich · 1:22 AM

Ted is a spectacular repro supporter! And a delightful human. Glad to have you here to help spread the word!

Katie Klabusich · 1:22 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Natalie: well if you ever need a cheerleader or a fundraising signal boost? hit me up on twitter. i love helping raise money! haha”

Katie Klabusich · 1:22 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“We ABSOLUTELY want to start one. At this point our group is all volunteer.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:22 AM

Natalie, NNAF helps provide non-profit status to individual funds. Let them know you're interested in starting a fund!

Katie Klabusich · 1:22 AM

@Natalie -- that's how it starts.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:22 AM

Natalie, we are mostly volunteer as well.

Katie Klabusich · 1:22 AM

Yes!! Their twitter feed @AbortionFunds is SUPER responsive.

Katie Klabusich · 1:22 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“That's correct! We have a fund Called the Texas Action Fund (TAF) that helps women pay for abortion procedures and the costs that come with them in our clinics.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:22 AM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“wanna know who funds the abortion here in the UK? the tax payer”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:23 AM

We have one part-time employee, but other than that, we do this because it's a passion.

Katie Klabusich · 1:23 AM

Lucy -- that's my dream. It's a basic part of healthcare. Let's repeal hyde and get that happening!

Katie Klabusich · 1:23 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“We love @AbortionFunds.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:23 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“natalie: that's how it starts! and the NNAF is AMAZING.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:23 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“Good to know. I'll take this info back to our group. I know they are VERY motivated on this topic.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:23 AM

Hooray!!! Anybody else getting all happy? ;)

Katie Klabusich · 1:23 AM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Abortion/Pages/Introduction.aspx - there ya go Katie.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:23 AM

I would love for abortion funds to not have to exist. My ultimate goal is to make us unnecessary because we Repeal Hyde, end stigma, and get abortions funded. All in a day's work, right?

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:24 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“This is great. Another abortion fund in the making!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:24 AM

Tell us about the people who come to Lilith for help.

Katie Klabusich · 1:25 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Lindsay: we are totally going to do that. that is my dream as well. :D”

Katie Klabusich · 1:25 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Lindsay is right. i'm a volunteer. i am unpaid and i spend a lot of my time doing whatever i can to help spread the word about abortion access, Lilith Fund and helping women. i found my calling!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:25 AM

★ Spotlighted from Ted Gavin

“Awww!”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:25 AM

The majority of the callers to Lilith Fund are already struggling to make ends meet. Often they are lower income clients, they usually don't have insurance, and most of them are already parents.

Katie Klabusich · 1:25 AM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“if other countries can get the tax payer to fund abortions,i dont see what the problem is in the US,Lindsay”

Katie Klabusich · 1:26 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Lucy: there is a lot of stigma, shame and ignorance about what and WHO gets an abortion.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:26 AM

There are many reasons they cite for needing an abortion, but often they tell us that they are trying to take care of the family they already have.

Katie Klabusich · 1:26 AM

Legislators, @Lucy. We have a repeatedly reintroduced/passed Hyde Amendment that prohibits public funds from going to abortion care.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:26 AM

Some have been affected by rape, domestic violence, birth control coercion, or any other numbers of factors that can affect their ability to prevent or control their pregnancies.

Katie Klabusich · 1:26 AM

Right; nationally over half the women seeking abortion are already mothers.

Katie Klabusich · 1:26 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“Lucy - The problem is the stigma, as Kat said, but we also have the Hyde Amendment, which prevents public funding for abortion care in the US.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:26 AM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“yes i know that,kat. (sighs)....”

Katie Klabusich · 1:27 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“the last Lilith Fund shift i did (last week) i had a partner take half the calls. i still had to call SEVENTEEN WOMEN. i funded about 8 of them.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:27 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“Haha I mean what Katie said.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:27 AM

We feel strongly that we can help give them that power back. Abortion funds help give back autonomy and power to the person being funded.

Katie Klabusich · 1:27 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“most of them: poor, undereducated, mothers and struggling to make ends meet.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:27 AM

Yes! Feelings on abstinence only education leading to an uptick in unplanned pregnancies?

Katie Klabusich · 1:27 AM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“its just so damn frustrating is all”

Katie Klabusich · 1:28 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“OK guys I thought I would stop in and talk a little bit, but I have to run off.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:28 AM

Yeah, that's a whole other can of worms...especially in TX. But I would say that we subscribe to a broad definition of reproductive justice that includes a person's right not just to abortion, but education, financial means, and the autonomy to

Katie Klabusich · 1:28 AM

Thanks, Drew!!

Katie Klabusich · 1:28 AM

★ Spotlighted from Drew Stanley

“Thanks all and thanks for all you do! GO ABORTION FUNDS!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:29 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Lucy: it really and truly is. this is why we volunteer and spend so much time doing things like this. a lot of Americans don't even know what the Hyde Amendment is or how it prevents poor women from obtaining medical procedures.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:29 AM

prevent, plan, and/or not have a family

Katie Klabusich · 1:29 AM

Exactly. The lack of comprehensive sex ed is part of what makes what you do so important. You're really the last line of defense in bodily autonomy.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:29 AM

so we definitely support giving people as much information about birth control as possible. but we also don't judge our clients for what they do or don't know, choose, or feel is right for them

Katie Klabusich · 1:29 AM

★ Spotlighted from Ted Gavin

“It's mildly horrifying that, as abstinence only education has been tied to increases in teen pregnancies, the MTV show 16 & Pregnant has been tied to an increase in teens searching for contraception and, anecdotally, the fall in teen pregnancy rates.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:30 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Ted, it really, really is! i had no idea how pervasive "abstinence only" damages choice until i volunteered.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:30 AM

Of course! I just think of it all as one big plan of attack from the extreme "conservative" groups. They aren't just trying to limit abortion. They're trying to limit autonomy at every turn.

Katie Klabusich · 1:30 AM

It makes me even more grateful that people can turn to abortion funds.

Katie Klabusich · 1:31 AM

★ Spotlighted from Ted Gavin

“They're trying to limit "informed".”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:31 AM

Sure. All of these attacks are part of a broader strategy to limit resources and options

Katie Klabusich · 1:31 AM

Exactly!

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:32 AM

That's one of the things I find so gratifying about working with an abortion fund. We cannot fix every part of the puzzle. But we do get to give people back their autonomy at a time when they might be feeling like they have few options.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:33 AM

I believe, as do other Lilith Funders, that the right to choose shouldn't depend on what financial resources you have.

Katie Klabusich · 1:33 AM

Agreed.

Katie Klabusich · 1:33 AM

There's a real directness to abortion funding.

Katie Klabusich · 1:33 AM

Like clinic escorting, you see (or talk to) the real people who need help.

Katie Klabusich · 1:33 AM

It's really motivating to the rest of my work!

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:34 AM

We make a real and distinct difference to people in that exact moment. I think clinic escorting is a great comparison!

Katie Klabusich · 1:34 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“i never felt that, as a poor white undereducated feminist that my worth mattered in volunteering until i found Lilith Fund. real talk- they allowed me to find my place and encouraged me.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:34 AM

kat -- now I'm all teary! :]

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:34 AM

We meet people where their need is, and we help them immediately

Katie Klabusich · 1:34 AM

There's so much power in that!

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:35 AM

I've often said that I thought all board of directors work was older retired rich people, but abortion funds brought me in in a way that allowed me to give what i have to my organization. i love that.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:35 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“i directly help women access their lives. that makes me so happy and content. i feel like i matter and it helps me. i know i make a real, wonderful meaningful difference.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:35 AM

Ha! Awesome.

Katie Klabusich · 1:35 AM

★ Spotlighted from Anastasia Scangas

“I never thought I never thought I would volunteering as rewarding as I do”

Katie Klabusich · 1:35 AM

I do love abortion people!

Katie Klabusich · 1:36 AM

★ Spotlighted from Anastasia Scangas

“It's so true! Being a clinic escort is one of the most rewarding aspects of my life right now”

Katie Klabusich · 1:36 AM

People ask how I "picked" this issue (I really feel like it picked me); I say I love the people who are involved in repro justice.

Katie Klabusich · 1:36 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Lindsay: that is what i love the most about LF i think. the board are all people i respect and just wanna hang out with as much as possible. like, these are my FRIENDS. it's so empowering.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:36 AM

I know this gets said a lot, but when the question of "where are the younger pro-choice activists?" the answer is usually abortion funds!

Katie Klabusich · 1:36 AM

★ Spotlighted from Anastasia Scangas

“I agree with Kat M”

Katie Klabusich · 1:36 AM

YES. UGH. Hello! Here!

Katie Klabusich · 1:36 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“Do Not Feed The Trolls. *taps the sign*”

Katie Klabusich · 1:37 AM

Thanks, Jessica. We have a couple. Reminder: you can click the three dots under the thumbs and mute people. :]

Katie Klabusich · 1:37 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Katie: i say that EVERY. SINGLE. DAY!!!!!!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:37 AM

Though -- as someone rapidly approaching middle age, <grin> I DO make a concerted effort to pull in more people in their 20's. I don't want to make that same mistake.

Katie Klabusich · 1:37 AM

Everybody in!

Katie Klabusich · 1:37 AM

★ Spotlighted from Anastasia Scangas

“It's very true, my abortion fund board is quite young, and our escorts are young as well!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:37 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“Oh LOVELY- Sorry I missed that earlier probably.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:38 AM

We are stronger together.

Katie Klabusich · 1:38 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“it's funny though bc as an "older" activist/volunteer i never felt so loved, wanted and accepted as i did with LF & abortion stuff in general. it's funny- i have no idea what people are talking about when they say that they can't find the youngins!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:38 AM

Agreed.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:38 AM

I feel very passionately that we will only succeed if we include and educate as many passionate people as possible.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:38 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“Yes, I'm older, too. I have no trouble finding young women who want to be active.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:38 AM

Speaking of together -- I have to do a quick plug for two things. ONE! Lilith is doing a fundraising push. So, check out their page and twitter feed & jump in. ;)

Katie Klabusich · 1:39 AM

★ Spotlighted from Anastasia Scangas

“I wonder if the "problem" is more that age seems irrelevant with these issues”

Katie Klabusich · 1:39 AM

Also, BOWLING time of year is coming!

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:39 AM

Yes! We want to raise $4100 to help about #41Texans by the end of January. Anyone can help at rally.org/41Texans

Katie Klabusich · 1:39 AM

Bookmark the bowl-a-thon page and keep an eye out: http://bowlathon.nnaf.org

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:39 AM

Definitely. Our Bowl-a-thon is going to be bigger and better than it's ever been

Katie Klabusich · 1:40 AM

All the abortion funds in the country "compete" and the team names are HILARIOUS, so be ready for all your friends and people you follow to start posting about it. :D

Katie Klabusich · 1:40 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“i LOVE seeing my younger friends discover the passion of repro justice/rights work. makes my heart so happy.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:40 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“BOWLATHON BOWLATHON ZOMG BOWLATHON”

Katie Klabusich · 1:40 AM

I have to go get my ball and shoes out of storage. #humblebrag

Katie Klabusich · 1:40 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Lindsay: i'mma have TWO teams. girl, i am coming to rock out San Antonio with my Corpus Christi team!!!!!!!”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:40 AM

Yessss Kat!!!

Katie Klabusich · 1:40 AM

I think it's this camaraderie that actually caught my attention about abortion funds.

Katie Klabusich · 1:40 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“you said balls.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:41 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“can i just brag for a hot second? I LOVE THE BOWLATHON AND I RAISE A SHIT TON OF MONEY AND I WEAR AWESOME OUTFITS AND I GET TO FEEL FAMOUS FOR A DAY.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:41 AM

I first found out about abortion funds when a friend in Chicago was fundraising for their BAT. And I thought, man, why can't Texas do such cool stuff..

Katie Klabusich · 1:41 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“By the way, if y'all don't know Kat, you should fix that. I strive to be more like her in the fight for repro justice.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:41 AM

I had escorted in Chicago and when moved to NYC I was looking for a way to get involved.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:41 AM

and then I found out HEY WE ARE. I WANT IN.

Katie Klabusich · 1:41 AM

Exactly!

Katie Klabusich · 1:41 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“STAAAAAHP JESSICA”

Katie Klabusich · 1:42 AM

This whole thing makes me ridiculously happy.

Katie Klabusich · 1:42 AM

Lindsay -- do you ever find people have misconceptions about abortion funds, or have they mostly just never heard about them?

Katie Klabusich · 1:42 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“no lie? Bowlathon is my absolute favorite fucking day of the whole year. THE WHOLE YEAR.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:42 AM

How can it not? Real grassroots fundraising from communities who care who are doing the hard work of raising the funds we need to ge tthe job done

Katie Klabusich · 1:42 AM

TRUTH

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:43 AM

Mostly, I find people haven't heard about us, but often I do hear some cracks about how people who can't afford abortions shouldn't have them

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:43 AM

as if forcing that person to have a child is better...

Katie Klabusich · 1:43 AM

Ugh. Give us some good responses to that.

Katie Klabusich · 1:43 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“YES! Which should not even be an issue! When I first starteed learning about feminism I was like,.... Repeal Hyde? I don't know about that. Now I'm like WTF!!!!!!!!!!!”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:44 AM

and sometimes I hear that abortions don't cost that much. Many of the same uninformed arguments you hear about public assistance or healthcare

Katie Klabusich · 1:44 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“Class warfare at its finest. Abortion on goddamn demand.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:44 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“They way people talk about children as a form of punishment for having sex is terrifying. There's a reason our abuse and neglect rates are so high.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:44 AM

Does disabusing people of the financial obstacles help them get it?

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:45 AM

I try to shed more light on the actual situations our clients are going through. I talk about the fact that many of our clients feel that getting an abortion IS taking responsibility

Katie Klabusich · 1:45 AM

@Natalie -- YEP. I shouldn't have kids. Because I never want them. LOVE my nieces, don't want my own. Everyone is better off with this arrangement.

Katie Klabusich · 1:45 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“i try to really make it PERSONAL for people who maybe do not really understand or KNOW what an abortion costs. i've had a lot of people tell me, OH I HAD NO IDEA. when i explain Hyde, or how hard access is. esp down in the RGV.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:45 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“I have taken three people to have abortions and all of them cost at least $500.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:45 AM

They are able to take care of themselves, their families, their health, their jobs, their educations.

Katie Klabusich · 1:46 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“And that is actually reasonable compared to many states.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:46 AM

I have also been able to talk about the Turnaway study that should people who want an abortion and can't get one are much more likely to be in poverty later

Katie Klabusich · 1:46 AM

The talking point that helped me was that adoption (which some people suggest instead) isn't an alternative to pregnancy; it's an alternative to parenthood. Abortion is the alternative to pregnancy.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:46 AM

http://www.ansirh.org/research/turnaway.php

Katie Klabusich · 1:47 AM

Thanks, Lindsay!

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:47 AM

That's absolutely true

Katie Klabusich · 1:47 AM

Yeah -- that one comes from Andrea Grimes. Lots of Texas awesome round here.

Katie Klabusich · 1:47 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“great point, Katie.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:47 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“i like to ask, hey do you happen to have an extra $500 available? most people don't and don't know anyone who does. i explain our vouchers are typically much less than that.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:47 AM

Kat -- YES. And that's after unpaid time off, child care, travel, waiting periods, etc.

Katie Klabusich · 1:47 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“To force a woman to carry an unwanted pregnancy to give a baby away is dangerous for her mental, physical and emotional health, HELL NO”

Katie Klabusich · 1:47 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“TEXAAAASSSSSSSSSS lol”

Katie Klabusich · 1:48 AM

My situation was "uninteresting." Long time partner, condom failure, knew right away, had my own doc, was down the street from a PP, got in right away. STILL COST ME > $1000 b/t the procedure & TO work.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:48 AM

Often it's not just giving birth and parenting that is an obstacle. As anyone who has been pregnant will tell you, being pregnant is an intense change in your life and can be a difficult shift to make.

Katie Klabusich · 1:48 AM

Yeah. When you're pregnant and don't want to be, you feel like your body has been invade.

Katie Klabusich · 1:48 AM

invaded

Katie Klabusich · 1:49 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“men especially have no idea how much an abortion costs and really have no concept of the logistics of getting one. particularly is finding childcare for kids they already have. we have to educate as best we can when the opportunity presents itself.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:49 AM

It's unrealistic for us to force people who don't want to be pregnant to do it anyway and then expect they'll magically be able to adjust to it, financially, emotionally, logistically

Katie Klabusich · 1:50 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“Not to mention that statistically abortion is actually safer than childbirth. It's like, sorry you got pregnant but go play the odds. KBYE.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:50 AM

Kat's right. Men, but also people who have really great access to contraception, sex ed, healthcare. Even those who are pro-choice may just be incredibly removed from the process of abortion.

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:50 AM

Not that contraception is fool-proof. That's definitely not true

Katie Klabusich · 1:50 AM

★ Spotlighted from Ted Gavin

“@kat m: most men, thankyouverymuch :-) Then again, many young women don't, also. That we can change through education and outreach.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:51 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“Hey Ted, We get it. There's good men out there. Don't make this about you please.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:51 AM

But many people with means might see an abortion as an inconvenience rather than a life-altering financial event

Katie Klabusich · 1:51 AM

Jess -- Ted's great. ;)

Katie Klabusich · 1:51 AM

He actually does fund things; so he gets to raise that point. lol

Katie Klabusich · 1:51 AM

★ Spotlighted from Julie Gelpke

“Problem being with younger physicians today, they are not being taught about abortion care as the older generation was”

Katie Klabusich · 1:51 AM

TRUTH, Julie.

Katie Klabusich · 1:51 AM

We do have a massive provider shortage both with abortion care and primary care.

Katie Klabusich · 1:52 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“well yes, most men. but even informed men i find really can still end up slightly removed from the inner process of how hard it can be to get an abortion.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:52 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“that's so true Julie.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:52 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“LOL Ok Katie. I'll concede. For now. Sorry, I had a shit day defending trans*people against TERFs.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:52 AM

★ Spotlighted from Ted Gavin

“Jessica, not my intent at all and my apologies if it delivered that way.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:52 AM

That's why providers are heroes. How many young people want to sign up for a career that comes with not much money and incessant, scary harassment?

Katie Klabusich · 1:52 AM

Jessica gets it a lot on twitter. Allow me the introduction. You're both awesome. <3

Katie Klabusich · 1:52 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“I'm sorry too, Ted. I had a rough day in feminism. My apologies.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:52 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“Many medical schools are being forced to remove abortion care from their rotations.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:52 AM

YES HEROES

Katie Klabusich · 1:53 AM

I keep asking on Twitter, Do YOU wear kevlar to work?

Katie Klabusich · 1:53 AM

★ Spotlighted from Julie Gelpke

“Then these medical schools should lose state funding”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:53 AM

As more and more hospitals are privatized, many doctors don't have the option of providing abortion access

Katie Klabusich · 1:53 AM

That is extremely problematic -- and another reason to support abortion funds WHILE we try to change laws.

Katie Klabusich · 1:53 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“if i wasn't so grossed out by blood/fluids i would totally be a nurse like my sister. but alas, i faint at blood.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:53 AM

That's another reason abortion funds are critical.

Katie Klabusich · 1:53 AM

Kat -- I've never so much wished I could make it through med school.

Katie Klabusich · 1:53 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“It's often the state funding that keeps the rotations from happening. States pass laws saying that if abortion care is taught they will pull their funding.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:53 AM

★ Spotlighted from Julie Gelpke

“They would not be fully accredited to me”

Katie Klabusich · 1:53 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“What the hell? Really?”

Katie Klabusich · 1:54 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“Welcome to the HELL that is the red states”

Katie Klabusich · 1:54 AM

I find red state activism to be unbelievably inspiring.

Katie Klabusich · 1:54 AM

That you stay and fight like hell.

Katie Klabusich · 1:54 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“RED STATE! RED STATE!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:54 AM

Linday -- give us any other plugs you want to before we have to wind down!

Katie Klabusich · 1:54 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“We're exhausted. But unstoppable.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:54 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“@ Katie- so many of my red state warriors are my inspiration.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:55 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“well, i grew up in No. Cali. i find living in Texas to be much, much, much more satisfying and inspiring than the 20 yrs i spent in Cali.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:55 AM

★ Spotlighted from Ted Gavin

“Jessica, if you're helping trans* people, then you are, to quote Bayard Rustin, an angelic troublemaker who earned the right to snap. No worries.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:55 AM

ok, one last plug for our big January campaign! Help us start 2014 off really strong by raising enough to fund #41Texans at rally.org/41Texans

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:55 AM

Use the hashtag #41Texans to tell people why you donate to abortion funds

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:56 AM

2013 was SO HARD in Texas, and 2014 is going to be even harder. we want to start our year with a big show of support and strength. You can all help us!

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:56 AM

★ Spotlighted from Julie Gelpke

“We need abortion funds because low income women cannot afford an abortion, and have to work for weeks to come up with the money which is more dangerous to her well being”

Katie Klabusich · 1:56 AM

YES -- even if you can't donate or have your home fund to contribute to, you can help spread the word about what's happening in texas and the FRANCE SIZED area with NO providers by using the hashtag.

Katie Klabusich · 1:56 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“Thanks Ted. That totally made my day.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:56 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“:D”

Katie Klabusich · 1:56 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“and i wanna just state one more time how much i love abortion funds, Lilith Fund and repro justice overall. haha”

Katie Klabusich · 1:57 AM

★ Spotlighted from Julie Gelpke

“I am battling a 6 week abortion ban here in Kansas, I mean come on”

Katie Klabusich · 1:57 AM

★ Spotlighted from Amelia Long

“I LOVE Y'ALLLLLLL”

Katie Klabusich · 1:57 AM

Readers out there -- you can help just by knowing abortion funds exist and giving them a RT and a repost and a like on FB to help spread the word.

Katie Klabusich · 1:57 AM

★ Spotlighted from Anastasia Scangas

“6 weeks is mind blowing, HOW ARE YOU EVEN SUPPOSED TO KNOW YOU'RE PREGNANT”

Katie Klabusich · 1:57 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“Julie, my BFF lives in KS. i know. <3”

Katie Klabusich · 1:57 AM

★ Spotlighted from Amelia Long

“@kat HEYYYY girl”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:58 AM

Tell everyone you know! Many people who WOULD be supporters just don't know we're out there.

Katie Klabusich · 1:58 AM

And LOOK at how ridiculously fun (heartbeat bills ban them before 6 weeks) ABORTION PEOPLE ARE!

Katie Klabusich · 1:58 AM

Doesn't it make all of you want to volunteer??

Katie Klabusich · 1:58 AM

★ Spotlighted from Ted Gavin

“6 WEEKS? [facepalm]”

Katie Klabusich · 1:58 AM

★ Spotlighted from Amelia Long

“@Anastasia +1 and in TX our medication AB ban was at 8 weeks”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:58 AM

Straight UP! Abortion funds have the most fun.

Katie Klabusich · 1:58 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“yes, please please RT and post and signal boost and FB like. we need all the help we can get! we need you!”

Katie Klabusich · 1:58 AM

★ Spotlighted from Julie Gelpke

“Well, for some idiot legislators, you should know your pregnant before you even have sex”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:58 AM

facebook.com/lilithfund

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:58 AM

twitter.com/lilithfund

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:59 AM

and as of today instagram.com/lilithfund !!!

Katie Klabusich · 1:59 AM

Thank you SO much, Lindsay. I know I'll keep tweeting with your hashtag and you know I love you. I'm not stopping with $55K from the telethon. My <3 is in Texas.

Katie Klabusich · 1:59 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“In RI, you couldnt get one at 6 weeks unless they could definitely see the fetus. So, basically, they're trying to restrict all abortions. Period.”

Katie Klabusich · 1:59 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“no really abortion funds are the best invention ever. i'm just saying.”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 1:59 AM

Thanks Katie! We SO appreciate your continued support and advocacy!

Katie Klabusich · 1:59 AM

Feel free to keep the love flowing; the chat field doesn't vanish and the transcript sticks around FOREVA in case there were links or organizations you need to look up.

Katie Klabusich · 1:59 AM

★ Spotlighted from Anastasia Scangas

“YES Kat M YEs”

Katie Klabusich · 1:59 AM

★ Spotlighted from Amelia Long

“Thank you for this great conversation, Katie and Lindsay!!”

Katie Klabusich · 2:00 AM

Goodnight everybody! See ya over on the twitter -- it's #ProtectTheZone day. ;)

Katie Klabusich · 2:00 AM

★ Spotlighted from Natalie P

“Thank you, everyone. This was great. Lots of info.”

Katie Klabusich · 2:00 AM

★ Spotlighted from Lucy Dyer

“thanks for the great tawk Katie & Lindsay. :-)”

Katie Klabusich · 2:00 AM

★ Spotlighted from Jessica Oliva

“Thanks all! Have an online book club in a few. We are talking about Bone Black which I highly recommend, btw!”

Katie Klabusich · 2:01 AM

★ Spotlighted from kat m

“this was awesome & fun and i love all y'all. Texas forever y'all. :)”

Katie Klabusich · 2:01 AM

★ Spotlighted from Ted Gavin

“Awesome program, Katie. Keep crushing it!”

Katie Klabusich · 2:01 AM

★ Spotlighted from Julie Gelpke

“Take care and rock on”

Lindsay Rodriguez · 2:01 AM

Texas forever :)

Forum · 171

Forum· 171 comments

164 visitors

Tawkers AdminJan 9, 2014, 12:45 AM★ Spotlighted

Welcome to the comment section of the Tawk, where audience members can share their thoughts about the main conversation happening on the left. Don't by shy! Entering questions and comments is the only way to get the attention of the two Hosts on stage!

Will JosephsJan 16, 2014, 1:08 AM

What did you think of Justice Kagan's comment comparing Abortion Clinics to Slaughterhouses?

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:08 AM★ Spotlighted

i never heard of an abortion fund until Lilith Fund found me on twitter.

Ted GavinJan 16, 2014, 1:09 AM★ Spotlighted

Honestly, a little bit. Particularly considering the fundraising done by providers. It's an unfortunate secret that this is a thing.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:10 AM★ Spotlighted

i consider myself now an "abortion fund evangelist" bc i will bring up the need to fund in any and all social situations. people assume it's a 'taxpayer funded thing' most of the time.

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:11 AM★ Spotlighted

Are there abortion funds in every state? If not, are there national funds where women can seek funding?

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:11 AM★ Spotlighted

i used these people. very quick,simple and easy - http://www.mariestopes.org.uk/

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:12 AM★ Spotlighted

Natalie: if you are on twitter: @abortionfunds will help direct you to your state if there is one. currently there are more than 30 funds. :)

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:12 AM

anyhow,as you were....

Will JosephsJan 16, 2014, 1:12 AM

1st amendment is sacrosanct; We can't squelch some speech & not other. Protests are protected.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:12 AM★ Spotlighted

hahaha! we all said the same thing. <3

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:12 AM★ Spotlighted

Thank you.

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:13 AM★ Spotlighted

Is that another RI person I see!

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:13 AM

Nope just kidding

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:13 AM★ Spotlighted

it was the NNAF that helped Lilith Fund find me when i randomly stumbled upon @abortionfunds on twitter!

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:13 AM★ Spotlighted

Drew from Whole Woman's Health here. We are super, super grateful for Lilith and all of the work that they do for our patients. And thanks for holding this "tawk"!

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:13 AM★ Spotlighted

i love Whole Woman's Health and Drew. <3

Will JosephsJan 16, 2014, 1:14 AM

Obama said "Not 1 dime of taxpayers's money for abortion." HR7 makes sure he doesn't win Lie of the Year in 2014 like 2013.

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:14 AM★ Spotlighted

Do women apply to the funds directly or are they referred by the clinics after they make an appointment?

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:14 AM★ Spotlighted

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:14 AM★ Spotlighted

i really find my "tribe" in Lilith Fund. truly, these are my family, my people, my tribe. cheesy sentiments but they changed my entire life. :)

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:14 AM★ Spotlighted

Both, Natalie.

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:14 AM★ Spotlighted

We are too. Thanks, Katie!

Will JosephsJan 16, 2014, 1:14 AM

Virtually all Obamacare plans for women are subsidized by taxpayers. But NO taxpayer money can be used to subsidize abortions. We need to enforce this law!

Steph HeroldJan 16, 2014, 1:15 AM★ Spotlighted

Thanks for all your amazing work, Lindsay & Lilith Fund!

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:15 AM

Oh I love seeing everyone on here!

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:15 AM★ Spotlighted

We send our patients to the hotline when they ask for funding during their initial appointment when they make it over the phone.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:15 AM★ Spotlighted

Natalie: a lot of the clinics we work with will refer their patients to us. we get a lot via Google too though.

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:16 AM★ Spotlighted

i still find it hard to believe that this topic is still around today. how hard can it be to pay for something like this? its so different here in the uk

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:16 AM★ Spotlighted

i would like to publicly credit Steph Herold for actually making me the activist i am today. she pointed me to NNAF and abortion activism when she had her handle as "iamdrtiller" which i found after Dr. Tiller's murder. she got my ball rolling!

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:17 AM

or at least it was

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:17 AM★ Spotlighted

Excellent, thank you. We are looking for ways to support funds in our state. The more we know the better we can plan.

Will JosephsJan 16, 2014, 1:17 AM

Night of 1000 Vaginas trying to raise money to fund abortions in TX. Until Roe Colapses ONLY private money should pay for abortions, not taxpayer money.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:17 AM★ Spotlighted

where are you at Natalie?

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:17 AM★ Spotlighted

Indiana

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:18 AM★ Spotlighted

Yes, Lilith is one of our top abortion funders, especially when it comes to our patients in Texas (where the majority of our clinics are located).

Steph HeroldJan 16, 2014, 1:18 AM★ Spotlighted

You're making me blush, Kat. Thank you! <3

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:18 AM

Which looks just like Rhode Island in a thumbnail!

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:18 AM★ Spotlighted

We always offer Lilith and NAF first when they ask us to help them with funding for their procedure.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:18 AM

i tell everyone i know as often as possible about how i found you, Steph. :)

Ted GavinJan 16, 2014, 1:18 AM★ Spotlighted

This is outstanding. Are there any US national funding platforms that participate in this - either directly or by funding the funders?

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:20 AM

i dont know if you guys have seen this today,but this is so widespread here - http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/the-lost-girls-illegal-abortion-widely-used-by-some-uk-ethnic-groups-to-avoid-daughters-has-reduced-female-population-by-between-1

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:20 AM★ Spotlighted

hey Natalie, per the NNAF site, there is no Indiana abortion fund- i know that Carolina and Arizona both started their own. you should start one! :D

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:21 AM★ Spotlighted

We have one local city fund about an hour south of the capital. We have discussed starting a fund, but we lack non profit status at this time.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:22 AM★ Spotlighted

Natalie: well if you ever need a cheerleader or a fundraising signal boost? hit me up on twitter. i love helping raise money! haha

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:22 AM★ Spotlighted

We ABSOLUTELY want to start one. At this point our group is all volunteer.

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:22 AM★ Spotlighted

That's correct! We have a fund Called the Texas Action Fund (TAF) that helps women pay for abortion procedures and the costs that come with them in our clinics.

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:22 AM★ Spotlighted

wanna know who funds the abortion here in the UK? the tax payer

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:22 AM★ Spotlighted

We love @AbortionFunds.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:23 AM★ Spotlighted

natalie: that's how it starts! and the NNAF is AMAZING.

Will JosephsJan 16, 2014, 1:23 AM

As Obamacare w/ HR7 prohibits using even 1 dime of taxpayers' money to subsidize killing babies in utero it is best that private money be given until Roe Collapses by PERSONHOOD!

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:23 AM★ Spotlighted

Good to know. I'll take this info back to our group. I know they are VERY motivated on this topic.

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:23 AM★ Spotlighted

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Abortion/Pages/Introduction.aspx - there ya go Katie.

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:24 AM★ Spotlighted

This is great. Another abortion fund in the making!

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:24 AM★ Spotlighted

Lindsay is right. i'm a volunteer. i am unpaid and i spend a lot of my time doing whatever i can to help spread the word about abortion access, Lilith Fund and helping women. i found my calling!

Will JosephsJan 16, 2014, 1:24 AM

Moral people think it strange & peculiar that women get all happy at the thought of funding the slaughter of gestating babies in utero.

Ted GavinJan 16, 2014, 1:24 AM★ Spotlighted

Awww!

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:24 AM★ Spotlighted

Lindsay: we are totally going to do that. that is my dream as well. :D

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:25 AM★ Spotlighted

if other countries can get the tax payer to fund abortions,i dont see what the problem is in the US,Lindsay

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:25 AM

I second that with Lindsay. They are overwhelmingly already mothers.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:26 AM★ Spotlighted

Lucy: there is a lot of stigma, shame and ignorance about what and WHO gets an abortion.

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:26 AM★ Spotlighted

Lucy - The problem is the stigma, as Kat said, but we also have the Hyde Amendment, which prevents public funding for abortion care in the US.

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:26 AM★ Spotlighted

yes i know that,kat. (sighs)....

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:26 AM★ Spotlighted

Haha I mean what Katie said.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:26 AM★ Spotlighted

the last Lilith Fund shift i did (last week) i had a partner take half the calls. i still had to call SEVENTEEN WOMEN. i funded about 8 of them.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:27 AM★ Spotlighted

most of them: poor, undereducated, mothers and struggling to make ends meet.

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:27 AM★ Spotlighted

its just so damn frustrating is all

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:28 AM★ Spotlighted

OK guys I thought I would stop in and talk a little bit, but I have to run off.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:28 AM★ Spotlighted

Lucy: it really and truly is. this is why we volunteer and spend so much time doing things like this. a lot of Americans don't even know what the Hyde Amendment is or how it prevents poor women from obtaining medical procedures.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:28 AM

love you drew, you my boo. xo

Drew StanleyJan 16, 2014, 1:28 AM★ Spotlighted

Thanks all and thanks for all you do! GO ABORTION FUNDS!

William GreenJan 16, 2014, 1:29 AM

Thank God Obama promised U.S. he won't steal our money & use it to fund or subsidize abortions, even tho he regards his own grandchildren as "punishments" -- which is sad.

Ted GavinJan 16, 2014, 1:29 AM★ Spotlighted

It's mildly horrifying that, as abstinence only education has been tied to increases in teen pregnancies, the MTV show 16 & Pregnant has been tied to an increase in teens searching for contraception and, anecdotally, the fall in teen pregnancy rates.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:30 AM★ Spotlighted

Ted, it really, really is! i had no idea how pervasive "abstinence only" damages choice until i volunteered.

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:30 AM

actually TEd,there was a story that said the total opposite to that

Ted GavinJan 16, 2014, 1:31 AM★ Spotlighted

They're trying to limit "informed".

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:31 AM

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/16-and-pregnant-teen-mom-series-linked-to-teen-birth-rate-drop/

Will JosephsJan 16, 2014, 1:31 AM

Where will ProAbortion women rechannel their money after Roe Collapses from Life At Conception Act? Hopefully into ADOPTION!

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:32 AM

will,while i respect your views...shut the fuck up! thank you :-)

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 1:34 AM

sorry for the cursing folks. :-)

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:34 AM★ Spotlighted

i never felt that, as a poor white undereducated feminist that my worth mattered in volunteering until i found Lilith Fund. real talk- they allowed me to find my place and encouraged me.

Will JosephsJan 16, 2014, 1:34 AM

Lucy Dyer: No thank you. But I forgive your puerile profanity & pray God forgives your support for filicide.

Anastasia ScangasJan 16, 2014, 1:35 AM★ Spotlighted

I never thought I never thought I would volunteering as rewarding as I do

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:35 AM★ Spotlighted

i directly help women access their lives. that makes me so happy and content. i feel like i matter and it helps me. i know i make a real, wonderful meaningful difference.

Anastasia ScangasJan 16, 2014, 1:35 AM★ Spotlighted

It's so true! Being a clinic escort is one of the most rewarding aspects of my life right now

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:36 AM★ Spotlighted

Lindsay: that is what i love the most about LF i think. the board are all people i respect and just wanna hang out with as much as possible. like, these are my FRIENDS. it's so empowering.

Anastasia ScangasJan 16, 2014, 1:36 AM★ Spotlighted

I agree with Kat M

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:36 AM★ Spotlighted

Do Not Feed The Trolls. *taps the sign*

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:36 AM★ Spotlighted

Katie: i say that EVERY. SINGLE. DAY!!!!!!

Anastasia ScangasJan 16, 2014, 1:37 AM★ Spotlighted

It's very true, my abortion fund board is quite young, and our escorts are young as well!

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:37 AM★ Spotlighted

Oh LOVELY- Sorry I missed that earlier probably.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:37 AM★ Spotlighted

it's funny though bc as an "older" activist/volunteer i never felt so loved, wanted and accepted as i did with LF & abortion stuff in general. it's funny- i have no idea what people are talking about when they say that they can't find the youngins!

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:38 AM★ Spotlighted

Yes, I'm older, too. I have no trouble finding young women who want to be active.

Anastasia ScangasJan 16, 2014, 1:38 AM★ Spotlighted

I wonder if the "problem" is more that age seems irrelevant with these issues

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:39 AM★ Spotlighted

i LOVE seeing my younger friends discover the passion of repro justice/rights work. makes my heart so happy.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:39 AM★ Spotlighted

BOWLATHON BOWLATHON ZOMG BOWLATHON

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:40 AM★ Spotlighted

Lindsay: i'mma have TWO teams. girl, i am coming to rock out San Antonio with my Corpus Christi team!!!!!!!

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:40 AM★ Spotlighted

you said balls.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:41 AM★ Spotlighted

can i just brag for a hot second? I LOVE THE BOWLATHON AND I RAISE A SHIT TON OF MONEY AND I WEAR AWESOME OUTFITS AND I GET TO FEEL FAMOUS FOR A DAY.

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:41 AM★ Spotlighted

By the way, if y'all don't know Kat, you should fix that. I strive to be more like her in the fight for repro justice.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:41 AM★ Spotlighted

STAAAAAHP JESSICA

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:41 AM

NOAP. NEVAH

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:42 AM

Some people talk the talk. You walk the damn walk.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:42 AM★ Spotlighted

no lie? Bowlathon is my absolute favorite fucking day of the whole year. THE WHOLE YEAR.

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:43 AM★ Spotlighted

YES! Which should not even be an issue! When I first starteed learning about feminism I was like,.... Repeal Hyde? I don't know about that. Now I'm like WTF!!!!!!!!!!!

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:44 AM★ Spotlighted

Class warfare at its finest. Abortion on goddamn demand.

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:44 AM★ Spotlighted

They way people talk about children as a form of punishment for having sex is terrifying. There's a reason our abuse and neglect rates are so high.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:45 AM★ Spotlighted

i try to really make it PERSONAL for people who maybe do not really understand or KNOW what an abortion costs. i've had a lot of people tell me, OH I HAD NO IDEA. when i explain Hyde, or how hard access is. esp down in the RGV.

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:45 AM★ Spotlighted

I have taken three people to have abortions and all of them cost at least $500.

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:45 AM★ Spotlighted

And that is actually reasonable compared to many states.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:46 AM★ Spotlighted

i like to ask, hey do you happen to have an extra $500 available? most people don't and don't know anyone who does. i explain our vouchers are typically much less than that.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:46 AM★ Spotlighted

great point, Katie.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:47 AM★ Spotlighted

TEXAAAASSSSSSSSSS lol

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:47 AM★ Spotlighted

To force a woman to carry an unwanted pregnancy to give a baby away is dangerous for her mental, physical and emotional health, HELL NO

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:48 AM★ Spotlighted

men especially have no idea how much an abortion costs and really have no concept of the logistics of getting one. particularly is finding childcare for kids they already have. we have to educate as best we can when the opportunity presents itself.

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:50 AM★ Spotlighted

Not to mention that statistically abortion is actually safer than childbirth. It's like, sorry you got pregnant but go play the odds. KBYE.

Ted GavinJan 16, 2014, 1:50 AM★ Spotlighted

@kat m: most men, thankyouverymuch :-) Then again, many young women don't, also. That we can change through education and outreach.

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:50 AM★ Spotlighted

Hey Ted, We get it. There's good men out there. Don't make this about you please.

Julie GelpkeJan 16, 2014, 1:51 AM★ Spotlighted

Problem being with younger physicians today, they are not being taught about abortion care as the older generation was

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:51 AM★ Spotlighted

well yes, most men. but even informed men i find really can still end up slightly removed from the inner process of how hard it can be to get an abortion.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:51 AM★ Spotlighted

that's so true Julie.

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:52 AM★ Spotlighted

LOL Ok Katie. I'll concede. For now. Sorry, I had a shit day defending trans*people against TERFs.

Ted GavinJan 16, 2014, 1:52 AM★ Spotlighted

Jessica, not my intent at all and my apologies if it delivered that way.

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:52 AM★ Spotlighted

Many medical schools are being forced to remove abortion care from their rotations.

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:52 AM★ Spotlighted

I'm sorry too, Ted. I had a rough day in feminism. My apologies.

Julie GelpkeJan 16, 2014, 1:52 AM★ Spotlighted

Then these medical schools should lose state funding

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:53 AM★ Spotlighted

if i wasn't so grossed out by blood/fluids i would totally be a nurse like my sister. but alas, i faint at blood.

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:53 AM★ Spotlighted

It's often the state funding that keeps the rotations from happening. States pass laws saying that if abortion care is taught they will pull their funding.

Julie GelpkeJan 16, 2014, 1:53 AM★ Spotlighted

They would not be fully accredited to me

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:53 AM★ Spotlighted

What the hell? Really?

Julie GelpkeJan 16, 2014, 1:53 AM

they would be fully accredited to me

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:53 AM★ Spotlighted

Welcome to the HELL that is the red states

Julie GelpkeJan 16, 2014, 1:54 AM

NOT be, excuse me

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:54 AM

Holy crap. That makes me crazy.

Ted GavinJan 16, 2014, 1:54 AM★ Spotlighted

Jessica, if you're helping trans* people, then you are, to quote Bayard Rustin, an angelic troublemaker who earned the right to snap. No worries.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:54 AM★ Spotlighted

RED STATE! RED STATE!

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 1:54 AM★ Spotlighted

We're exhausted. But unstoppable.

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:54 AM★ Spotlighted

@ Katie- so many of my red state warriors are my inspiration.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:54 AM★ Spotlighted

well, i grew up in No. Cali. i find living in Texas to be much, much, much more satisfying and inspiring than the 20 yrs i spent in Cali.

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:55 AM★ Spotlighted

Thanks Ted. That totally made my day.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:55 AM★ Spotlighted

Julie GelpkeJan 16, 2014, 1:56 AM★ Spotlighted

We need abortion funds because low income women cannot afford an abortion, and have to work for weeks to come up with the money which is more dangerous to her well being

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:56 AM★ Spotlighted

and i wanna just state one more time how much i love abortion funds, Lilith Fund and repro justice overall. haha

Julie GelpkeJan 16, 2014, 1:57 AM★ Spotlighted

I am battling a 6 week abortion ban here in Kansas, I mean come on

Amelia LongJan 16, 2014, 1:57 AM★ Spotlighted

I LOVE Y'ALLLLLLL

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:57 AM★ Spotlighted

Julie, my BFF lives in KS. i know. <3

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:57 AM

I LOVE YOU AMELIA

Anastasia ScangasJan 16, 2014, 1:57 AM★ Spotlighted

6 weeks is mind blowing, HOW ARE YOU EVEN SUPPOSED TO KNOW YOU'RE PREGNANT

Amelia LongJan 16, 2014, 1:57 AM★ Spotlighted

@kat HEYYYY girl

Ted GavinJan 16, 2014, 1:57 AM★ Spotlighted

6 WEEKS? [facepalm]

Amelia LongJan 16, 2014, 1:58 AM★ Spotlighted

@Anastasia +1 and in TX our medication AB ban was at 8 weeks

Amelia LongJan 16, 2014, 1:58 AM

so... 6 weeks LMP??

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:58 AM★ Spotlighted

yes, please please RT and post and signal boost and FB like. we need all the help we can get! we need you!

Julie GelpkeJan 16, 2014, 1:58 AM★ Spotlighted

Well, for some idiot legislators, you should know your pregnant before you even have sex

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 1:58 AM★ Spotlighted

In RI, you couldnt get one at 6 weeks unless they could definitely see the fetus. So, basically, they're trying to restrict all abortions. Period.

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:58 AM★ Spotlighted

no really abortion funds are the best invention ever. i'm just saying.

Amelia LongJan 16, 2014, 1:58 AM

@anastasia well nevermind this is hard to write online. that was not exactly the right way to phrase. ugh

Anastasia ScangasJan 16, 2014, 1:58 AM

Sad, but true

kat mJan 16, 2014, 1:59 AM

WHOO HOO KATIE!

Anastasia ScangasJan 16, 2014, 1:59 AM★ Spotlighted

YES Kat M YEs

Amelia LongJan 16, 2014, 1:59 AM★ Spotlighted

Thank you for this great conversation, Katie and Lindsay!!

kat mJan 16, 2014, 2:00 AM

nothing made me prouder to be a Texan than when i saw that $55K was raised for US. that blew my fucking mind. still does.

Julie GelpkeJan 16, 2014, 2:00 AM

I think if men had to face having abortions, there would be a clinic and massive federal money on every corner

Natalie PJan 16, 2014, 2:00 AM★ Spotlighted

Thank you, everyone. This was great. Lots of info.

Lucy DyerJan 16, 2014, 2:00 AM★ Spotlighted

thanks for the great tawk Katie & Lindsay. :-)

Jessica OlivaJan 16, 2014, 2:00 AM★ Spotlighted

Thanks all! Have an online book club in a few. We are talking about Bone Black which I highly recommend, btw!

Ted GavinJan 16, 2014, 2:00 AM★ Spotlighted

Awesome program, Katie. Keep crushing it!

Julie GelpkeJan 16, 2014, 2:00 AM★ Spotlighted

Take care and rock on

kat mJan 16, 2014, 2:01 AM★ Spotlighted

this was awesome & fun and i love all y'all. Texas forever y'all. :)

Will JosephsJan 16, 2014, 2:14 AM

Let's keep ALL Abortion funds private and non-taxpayer until #Prolife can overturn Roe with the Life At Conception Act or a Constitutional Amendment!

johnny mainOct 17, 2014, 2:58 AM

Idk