ewly elected state Sen. Dick Black once called birth control "baby pesticide,"

Newly elected state Sen. Dick Black once called birth control "baby pesticide," and veteran anti-choice Del. Bob Marshall has vowed to introduce "personhood" legislation in 2012, which could not only outlaw abortion but severely limit access to contraception and in-vitro fertilization. And it doesn't stop here. Under the new legislature, the HPV cancer vaccine could be repealed, Planned Parenthood could face defunding, and miscarriages could be prosecutable.

What can the women of the commonwealth do as we face an onslaught of attacks on our bodies and rights? It is critical to stay informed about what is being introduced in the General Assembly, be active in your community, and keep regular communication with your legislators. Planned Parenthood will be fighting these bills, but we need your help.

In a time of economic uncertainty, people need more access to health care services, not less. So, members of the General Assembly: The women of Virginia are watching.


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Courtney Jones,

Grassroots Organizer,

Virginia League for Planned Parenthood.

Richmond.