A Sheffield-based feminist organisation ‘Worker’s Liberty’ is campaigning for reproductive rights during Lent in opposition to an anti-abortion campaign.
US anti-abortionists ‘40 Days for Life’ had success in overturning Roe v Wade, and the members of Workers Liberty say that they do not want to see this happening in Britain.
Ali Brown, the spokesperson for Worker’s Liberty, said: “Nigel Farage has talked about changing time limits for abortion, so we feel that, although there has been progressive legislation in Britain, there really is a potential for it to move and this means that it is important for us to carry on doing this campaigning.”
Worker’s Liberty recently blocked the presence of pro-life activists outside an abortion clinic in Sheffield by using peaceful tactics such as standing in front of their signs and holding placards with messages such as ‘abortion is healthcare’.
Members of Worker’s Liberty attending a counter protest.
Despite legislation in Britain that creates ‘safe zones’ around abortion clinics where no protesting is allowed, Brown said: “They stand as close as they can to facilities, which we think indicates that they are still doing their best to have an effect on people seeking those services. We are not there to cause a commotion, but if they are there we will counter them.”
Worker’s Liberty are also having their annual event in Manchester on the 14 March, where they will have a session on the rise of the far right and how it impacts people.
There will be multiple speakers and talks at the event, including those about trans and migrant rights, as well as a feminist Iranian speaker.
Brown says: “For women and non-binary people to have control over their own bodies and control over their own lives, it is essential that we have full reproductive rights, and this is a fundamental part of achieving women’s equality and freedom.”
If you would like to find out more about about the campaign, you can visit the Worker’s Liberty Instagram page: