Legally Speaking :The ABC s of abortion and the law
3W WomenReclaiming the Narrative: A Deep Dive into Abortion and the Law
On Saturday, 3w hosted a transformative session that unpacked the complex relationship between abortion and the law, giving participants a panoramic view of how culture, myths, and legal systems have shaped access to safe abortion from the 1600s to the present day.
Storytelling as a Tool for Justice
Rather than relying solely on legal jargon, the facilitator led the session through powerful, relatable storytelling. This approach made historical events feel immediate and personal, especially when exploring how patriarchal decisions across generations have continually undermined the rights of women and girls. The stories laid bare how shame, silence, and stigma around abortion have been weaponised to restrict bodily autonomy, especially for LBQTI persons.
Participants learned that while abortion laws vary globally, they are deeply influenced by cultural norms and colonial legacies. These myths, rooted in outdated ideologies, still shape public perception and policies around safe abortion today.
The Constitution is On Our Side
One of the session’s most empowering revelations was the acknowledgement that Kenya’s constitution protects reproductive rights. Participants engaged with real legal texts and were shown how the law, when correctly interpreted, offers more support than most people realise. Understanding this truth sparked critical conversations around how access to safe abortion isn’t just a health issue—it’s a human rights issue.
What’s Next? Keep the Conversation Alive
Participants left energised and ready to challenge harmful narratives within their communities. This training served as part one in our ongoing education series, setting the stage for deeper conversations and advocacy work.
#AbortionAndTheLaw #SafeAbortionNow #ReproductiveJustice #MyBodyMyRights #QueerRightsAreHumanRights #DecriminalizeAbortion #BodilyAutonomy #StorytellingForJustice #AbortionIsHealthcare #BreakTheSilence
