In our first live event, of the series Amplifying Voices, the host Maria Alejandra Moreno is joined by two incredible guests, Salma Kandil and Sara El Outa. They share their perspectives and experiences on activism, research, and reproductive rights in Egypt and Lebanon. They two activists tackle the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding abortion and advancing both abortion and gender rights in the region.
Salma, an artist and visual designer, shares her perspective and discusses her research on colonial imperialism in the Middle East. Sara, an activist with extensive experience working with gender rights organizations, shares her expertise and provides insight into the current situation in Lebanon.
Together, they delve into the complex barriers and obstacles surrounding abortion in Arab countries. We hear about the current legal situation, the influence of patriarchal and religious factors, and the experiences of people who seek abortions.
Throughout the online event, they explore the vital role that youth voices play in shaping the conversation around sexual reproductive health and rights. We discuss the importance of raising awareness, supporting organizations working to destigmatize abortion, and standing in solidarity with women who decide to terminate a pregnancy.
In addition to our enlightening discussion, they provide valuable resources and information on organizations in the region that specialize in reproductive health and offer support to individuals.
Salma and Sara, also shed light on the remarkable progress being made by young activists in these countries. One of the key aspects emphasized by our guests was the power of youth-led movements in driving social transformation. They highlighted the incredible impact that young activists are making by engaging with decision-makers and utilizing various social media platforms to amplify their voices. By harnessing the reach and influence of digital platforms, the young people are effectively normalizing conversations around reproductive rights and ensuring that they remain at the forefront of public discourse.
Moreover, our guests stressed the significance of digital platforms as essential tools for young groups seeking information and creating new values within their societies. In a world where gender equality and sexual rights are taboo, access to accurate and comprehensive information is vital. Digital platforms provide an inclusive space for young people to educate themselves, share valuable insights, and mobilize communities around critical reproductive justice issues.
We believe that by amplifying youth voices and fostering open, informed conversations, we can contribute to a greater understanding of sexual reproductive health rights and work towards positive change against abortion stigma. If you would like to be part of the series Amplifying Change, email us at info@abortiondata.org.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude for your unwavering support and kindly request that you join us in sharing this webinar and spreading the message about the significance of sexual reproductive health and rights, particularly in settings where the conversation is frequently censored or silenced.
We greatly appreciate you being part of the AbortionData community, and we look forward to continuing the Amplyfing Voices Series.