How to Feel Safe When You Don’t Feel Supported: America’s War on Women’s Rights

We thought we were the generation who’d carry our parents' dreams forward. As a 90s kid, I watched hopeful women take on boardrooms, music charts, and social change movements. We saw a push for equality and believed we’d carry that momentum forward. But here we are in 2024, wrestling with the chilling reality of America backtracking on fundamental human rights: the right to choose.

With the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade, access to abortion—a right generations fought for—has been gutted in states across America. The Guttmacher Institute reports that over 50% of U.S. women live in states hostile to abortion rights, forcing many to navigate unsafe paths and impossible decisions. This reality isn't just about a court ruling. It’s about control, safety, and the deeply personal decisions ripped from our hands.

So, what do we do when we don't feel supported? When the systems meant to protect us, led by figures like Donald Trump and their policies, seem hell-bent on erasing our autonomy? This is my guide—a blend of history, solidarity, and safety strategies—to help you feel safe even when the world doesn’t have your back.

1.Know Your Rights and Resources

Even in restrictive states, there are networks of support that refuse to let the fight die. Organizations like Planned Parenthood and The National Network of Abortion Funds work tirelessly to connect women with the care they need. Bookmark these links. Know who and what to call if you, or someone you love, finds themselves in need. We must be informed because our power starts with knowledge.

2.Understand Why It's Happening

It’s not just about controlling women's bodies. The fight over abortion rights has always been intertwined with political power and cultural warfare. Trump’s administration made it clear by appointing Supreme Court justices specifically to overturn Roe and energize their base. According to Pew Research, 60% of Americans support legal abortion in all or most cases, but we are being held hostage by a vocal minority.

The strategy is simple: maintain control over half the population by making their choices illegal or shameful. This isn’t about life—it’s about control. It’s critical to keep the bigger picture in mind when making decisions about how to advocate, how to protect yourself, and how to vote.

3.Build Your Support System —hi! I’m here for you :)

Lean on community. In times like these, collective strength keeps us sane and safe. Connect with your friends, support women-led organizations, or participate in local advocacy groups. We need spaces to share stories, rally together, and empower one another. Historically, women’s collectives have pushed change when no one else would. It’s time we remember our power.

4.Take Care of Your Body and Mind

While we can't control every law, we can protect ourselves from within. Prioritizing mental health is crucial, whether through therapy, mindfulness, or grounding practices. Personally, training Shaolin Kung-Fu with Shifu Shi Yan Ming has kept me disciplined and sharpened my mind, reinforcing why I preach mindfulness in any form—it’s essential for navigating tough times.

Engage in activism sustainably; burnout helps no one. Protecting your wellness is non-negotiable.

Also, stay informed about reproductive health options, as political leaders are targeting contraception access too. Consider proactive solutions like IUDs and emergency contraception. Websites like Bedsider offer discreet, educational resources to help.

5.Know the Bigger Picture and Stay Vigilant

The fight over reproductive rights has always been about more than just abortion—it’s about control. Leaders like Trump and many others have leveraged this issue for political gain, using our rights as bargaining chips. Remember, Pew Research shows that a majority of Americans support legal abortion, but we are being controlled by a powerful minority. Staying vigilant, informed, and connected to broader movements ensures we continue to push forward despite setbacks.

Final Words: Empowerment Through Courage

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, angry, and unsafe during times like these. But you are not alone. When systems fail, we build new ones together. When they try to silence us, we amplify our voices. Remember that feeling safe isn’t always about having total control—it’s about building strength, seeking allies, and standing up even when it’s hard.

Take care of yourself, support one another, and never stop fighting for your right to be heard, seen, and respected. This is our time to redefine safety, reclaim our rights, and remind the world that we are a force to be reckoned with.

#SOAPBOX #WomensRights

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