Abortion rights pamphlet launched
By Susan Price
MELBOURNE <196> The new Resistance Books pamphlet, Abortion: A woman's right, the case for law repeal, was launched here on June 12 at the Resistance Bookshop. The 50 people who attended heard Lynette Dumble, Melbourne University academic and human/reproductive rights activist, recommend the book as an essential resource for activists.
Dumble recounted the course the women's reproductive rights movement has taken over recent years, and said the straightforward language used in the booklet is essential today. She said the words of the book seemed to come "from my own mouth".
Dumble added that the reluctance to adopt direct, even confrontational, language had disadvantaged the struggles of the past. The book demonstrated that this mistake was not to be repeated in the present campaign to repeal — and not merely reform — abortion laws around Australia.
Nicky Stott and Jo Williams, both activists with the Pro-Choice Coalition, proposed toasts to the release of the booklet. Williams, also an activist in Resistance, stressed the need for a campaign to repeal abortion laws throughout Australia.
The launch was hosted by Sarah Lantz, an activist in the Pro-Choice Coalition and member of the Democratic Socialist Party. Lantz welcomed the publication as "a bold step forward in the campaign to repeal abortion laws in Victoria" and outlined the activities planned by the Pro-Choice Coalition.
Activities include a survey of Victorian parliamentarians on their views on abortion law repeal and their willingness to sponsor a private member's bill.
The coalition plans a national day of action for abortion rights in August. It will approach trade unions for support.
A benefit will take place on July 30, at the Empress of India Hotel, to raise money for the Pro-Choice Coalition.
[Copies of Abortion: A woman's right, the case for law repeal can be ordered from the Resistance Bookshop in Melbourne on (03) 9329 1277, or see the advertisement on page 10.]