Last year showed the best and worst in our nation. On the one hand, we saw record voter turnout in the 2020 election, and specifically saw an increase in voting among communities of color. On the other hand, we saw vivid displays that racism is alive and thriving. The senseless murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery (whose murderers have still not been brought to justice) made it very clear that we do not live in an equitable society.
But we know this in other ways, too. Studies show that daily stress from income inequality, discrimination, and institutional racism can affect a person’s mental and physical health. When you consider this, and add to it that many BIPOC have inconsistent access to health care due to being uninsured or underinsured, something like the simple act of visiting a health center for birth control might not be that “simple” at all.
At The Right Time health centers, we offer free or low-cost access to all methods of birth control, non-judgmental care, and in-person or online visits as a way to begin to address the historical and systemic barriers faced by people of color.
We know there is much to be done before America is a more equitable place. This Black History Month, we affirm our commitment to eliminating the barriers that keep Missouri residents, and specifically communities of color, from receiving quality contraceptive services. We intend to do our part to keep fighting until everyone—no matter who they are, where they live, or what their economic circumstances might be—can access health care services that will empower them to plan for their future.
Updated January 2021