Students at Christopher Newport University (CNU) are coming together to advocate for reproductive freedom and an increase in access to emergency contraception.
On Monday, Nov. 10, the Young Democratic Socialists of America (YDSA) at CNU organized a town hall in Trible Plaza as part of a campaign calling for free Plan B distribution on campus. The campaign, launched in September, has already gained momentum, with over 460 students signing a petition in support of the initiative. Organizers say the town hall aimed to provide a space for open dialogue and student testimonials about reproductive health, equity and access to care.
“This event is a chance for students to make their voices heard and to show the strength of grassroots organization on our campus,” Jack LeMansey, co-chair of YDSA, said in an email. “Reproductive freedom is a pressuring issue that affects all of us, and we want to make sure students have the resources and support they need.”
The event comes amid ongoing national debates surrounding reproductive rights. Participants hope this town hall will highlight the importance of local action and student advocacy.
The petition states that CNU shall implement free and accessible Plan B, Levonorgestrel and other “necessary reproductive health care products offered in select offices and around Main Campus via vending machines.”
The petition also requires informational packets and resources for optional counseling about Plan B to be accessible to students. During orientation, students will also be informed over the free contraceptives.
However, the petition does not state how these contraceptives will be funded nor where they will be sourced from.
