Sexual and Reproductive Justice
Sexual and reproductive justice exists when all people have the power and resources to make healthy decisions about their bodies, sexuality and reproduction. That means every person has the right to:
- Choose to have or not have children.
- Choose the conditions under which to give birth or create a family.
- Care for their children with the necessary social support in a safe and healthy environment.
- Control their own body and self-expression, free from any form of sexual or reproductive oppression.
The term "reproductive justice" was coined by a group of black women in 1994. From this group, a framework and SisterSong, a collective led by indigenous women and women of color, emerged.
Video — Working Together for Justice
Our Sexual and Reproductive Justice video features community members and Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett explaining the importance of working together toward undoing sexual and reproductive injustice in New York City.
After watching the video, download and use the Sexual and Reproductive Video Discussion Guide (PDF) to help lead conversations on sexual and reproductive justice within your community or organization.
Community Engagement Group
The Sexual and Reproductive Justice Community Engagement Group (PDF) is a collection of community leaders, activists and nonprofit organizations that work with the Health Department. The group meets monthly to plan and implement activities that encourage all New Yorkers to safely express their sexuality and gender identity with dignity. The group works to ensure everyone has the knowledge, skills and resources to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
- To learn more about the Sexual and Reproductive Justice Community Engagement Group and how to get involved, email SRJ@health.nyc.gov.
- Sign up for the Health Department’s monthly e-blast, Advancing Sexual Health Equity in New York City.
Additional Resources
- Sexual and Reproductive Justice Tumblr Series
- Doing it NYC Facebook Page
- Download the Doing it NYC Mobile App [iOS]
- Sexual and Reproductive Justice Resource List (PDF)
- Reproductive Health… Rights… Justice… How Do They Compare? (PDF)