Let's Talk Abortion

In this episode of Let’s Talk Abortion, host Roma, Director of Research at missINFORMED, sits down with TK Pritchard, Executive Director of National Abortion Federation Canada. TK brings over 15 years of leadership experience in reproductive justice, with a primary focus on abortion care, sexual health, and gender-based violence prevention.TK’s background includes serving as the Executive Director of a regional Planned Parenthood and holding multiple leadership roles in related fields. In addition to their work in reproductive health, TK has authored educational curricula on sexual health and anti-human trafficking and has consulted on trans and disability inclusion. As a queer, trans, non-binary individual who is physically disabled, neurodivergent, a survivor of sexual violence, and an active parent and community member, TK brings a multifaceted perspective to their advocacy.Join us as we discuss the intersection of reproductive justice, inclusivity, and community care, and learn more about TK's inspiring work in promoting equitable access to abortion care and reproductive health.Unfortunately, due to technically difficulties with recording our podcast episode centring Indigenous perspectives on abortion. We recorded the episode twice, but still encountered audio issues when we began editing. Therefore, that episode will remain in the archives. One day, we hope to share it with you. For further exploration of trauma-informed care, check out our webinar with Dr. Sergiu Vlad, OBGYN , which delves into the principles and applications of this vital approach. Watch the webinar here: https://youtu.be/iCln7puan5E?si=lG946siXQuGdvH4pNational Abortion Federation (NAF) Canada Website: https://nafcanada.org/Instagram: @nationalabortionfederationmissINFORMED's website: www.missinformed.caMusic by Ryan Cowan and Lianna Marie Boncore.

In the part two of our conversation with Joyce Arthur, President of the Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada (ARCC), we dive into the current federal political landscape surrounding abortion in Canada. Joyce discusses the Liberal Party's 2019 promise to create a Sexual Health Portal, their inaction on addressing Crisis Pregnancy Centres in Canada, and the impact of anti-choice private members bills, like C311, which marked a significant turning point for the federal Conservative Party.Joyce also explains why ARCC made the decision to publicly state that the federal Conservative Party is anti-choice. Finally, Joyce shares a resource on how to determine if your MP is pro-choice. This episode offers critical insights into how federal politics continue to shape abortion access and the ongoing fight to secure reproductive rights in Canada.Donate to ARCC through their website here: https://www.arcc-cdac.ca/Follow ARCC on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abortionrightscoalitioncanTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abortionrightscoalitionThis interview was conducted on October 15, 2024. On November 29th, 2024, the Liberal federal government stated that they would allow charities offering pregnancy counseling to keep their tax status if they disclose  their services exclude abortion and other reproductive services such as birth control — a move that differs from what Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had promised during the last federal election in 2021.missINFORMED's website: www.missinformed.caMusic by Ryan Cowan and Lianna Marie Boncore.

In this first episode of a two-part series, Roma sits down with Joyce Arthur, President of the Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada (ARCC), to explore the ongoing political landscape of abortion rights in Canada. While abortion was decriminalized in 1988, it remains a highly politicized issue in every election cycle. Joyce delves into the history of abortion access in Canada, from the struggle to open clinics and the tragic doctor shootings of the 1990s, to the persistent challenges aimed at repealing abortion rights.In this episode, we explore the absence of abortion laws in Canada, the ongoing stigma surrounding abortion, and how municipal governments have become key players in countering anti-choice groups. Joyce also highlights the importance of gender-inclusive language in abortion care promotion, the impact of belief-based care denial, and the gaps in enforcement when it comes to effective referrals. This vital conversation sheds a light on the complexities of abortion rights in Canada and the ongoing work to protect and expand access to care.ARCC Website: https://www.arcc-cdac.ca/ARCC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abortionrightscoalitioncanARCC Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abortionrightscoalitionVisit: native-land.caThis interview was conducted on October 15, 2024.missINFORMED's website: www.missinformed.caMusic by Ryan Cowan and Lianna Marie Boncore.

In today’s episode of Let’s Talk Abortion, missINFORMED’s podcast series, host Roma Dhamanaskar, Director of Research at missINFORMED explores the vital topic of gender-affirming abortion care with Dr. A.J. Lowik.Dr. Lowik, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology at the University of Lethbridge and the President of the Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada. Their research, which spans qualitative, mixed-methods, and arts-based approaches, delves into the reproductive health and lives of trans people, covering essential topics such as abortion, menstruation, perinatal care, lactation, and menopause. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Lowik is deeply dedicated to creating inclusive, gender-affirming abortion care spaces.Join us for an eye-opening discussion on the intersection of gender diversity and reproductive health.missINFORMED's website: www.missinformed.caA.J. Lowik’s website: https://www.ajlowik.com/

In this episode of Let’s Talk Abortion, part of missINFORMED’s podcast series, host Carly Cihosky sits down with Dr. Rupa Patel, an assistant professor in the Queen’s University Department of Family Medicine and program director for the Women’s Health Program. Dr. Patel, a family physician at Kingston Community Health Center, brings her expertise as an abortion care provider to discuss the specifics of medication abortion.During the episode, Dr. Patel provides insights into medication abortion and its role in reproductive health. Please note that Dr. Patel uses the term "surgical" abortion, which is often referred to as "procedural" abortion in best practices—these terms are interchangeable.Listeners interested in more information on Mifepristone and Misoprostol, two key medications used in abortion care, can visit www.missinformed.ca for further resources.Music by Ryan Cowan and Lianna Marie Boncore.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of missINFORMED’s mini-series, Let’s Talk Abortion!Join co-hosts Roma Dhamanaskar and Kayla Benjamin as they delve into the complexities of abortion care in Canada. While abortion is legal nationwide, access remains a significant challenge for many. In this episode, we explore the intricacies of Canada's fragmented healthcare system, the impact of geographic barriers, and the unsettling reality of belief-based care denial. We’ll also uncover the deceptive nature of Crisis Pregnancy Centres, which often mislead those seeking healthcare. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that distinguishes Canada's landscape from the U.S., highlighting the urgent need for equitable and inclusive abortion care.The Policy Options Article: https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/august-2022/abortion-access-canada/Action Canada Find Sexual Health Services Near You: https://www.actioncanadashr.org/resources/servicesAction Canada Access Line: 1‑888‑642‑2725College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://www.cpso.on.ca/How to report a physician denying care: https://www.cpso.on.ca/en/Public/Services/Complaints-and-ConcernsmissINFORMED's website: www.missinformed.caMusic by Ryan Cowan and Lianna Marie Boncore.Published on International Safe Abortion Day 2024; September 28.