As state-based advocates for reproductive freedom, we envision a world where everyone can access abortion care safely, affordably, and locally without punishment, stigma or judgment. Every day we wake up and work to uphold this fundamental freedom because we believe this is the only path to build thriving communities where we can all live with dignity and equality.
Unfortunately, our national organization, NARAL Pro-Choice America, has made the decision to fully nationalize the organization and disaffiliate all eleven state-level affiliates, including NARAL Missouri. This decision was made despite protest from affiliates and without regard to the impact this decision will have on communities across the country.
I know this news is difficult to process, but I wanted you to hear it from us first and assure you that we are not going anywhere.
NARAL Missouri has been creating real, sustainable change across Missouri for almost 45 years. Our army of 70,000 advocates have been at the forefront of this fight, electing champions of reproductive freedom at every level of government, passing Medicaid expansion, protecting access to abortion and most recently securing a #CleanFRA. We’ve cultivated life-long relationships and made NARAL Missouri what it is today: a powerful and resilient community that will never stop fighting for reproductive freedom. No one can take that away from us.
To meet the challenges of this moment, affiliates are committed to working together as a supportive network, sharing ideas and resources as we work locally in our respective communities. In the upcoming days and months, we will continue as a Missouri-based organization with the same values, same staff and board, and the same vision to safeguard our fundamental freedoms. But we need your support now more than ever.
We know our impact is strongest when we live and advocate for change within our own community, and NARAL Missouri is leading the way here at home. If we want to protect and expand access to abortion and reproductive healthcare, we need local leadership with deep ties to our communities. You can help us keep the fight for reproductive freedom local by keeping your investment local.
In the coming days and months, we will keep you updated as we move forward together. It’s your dedication and generosity that’s fueled our critical work for decades, and it’s exactly what will champion us into the future.
With gratitude,
Mallory Schwarz
she/her
Executive Director
NARAL Pro-Choice Missouri
