We must fight for women's reproductive rights

With the oppressive laws passed by Idaho’s legislature, we have become a ground zero for the fight for women’s rights in America. Nearly 25% of our healthcare providers have left the state for fear of prosecution, leaving us with a dangerous void for maternity care, as well as general female healthcare. 

Recognizing the crisis that exists here, 18 local women marched in our local July 4 parade as handmaids with a banner that read; “Reproductive Freedom & Liberty, Bring Back Our Doctors."  Credit is due to the Bonner County Democrats for welcoming this message for our residents to contemplate on the day we commemorate the rights of all Americans. 

Largely, the crowd’s reaction and applause along the full parade route were very positive. This reinforces our drive to continue questioning the Republicans' position that each of the 50 states can piecemeal rules for women’s healthcare needs. How is it that there are no different standards for men’s healthcare procedures dictated to them? This is much like the early '60s when southern states claimed “state rights” to discriminate against blacks and other minorities. The federal government stepped up to enforce laws against discrimination. State rights have limits!

Women today refuse to go back to pre-1960 society. History is on our side fighting double standards and discrimination against women. We will eventually win this battle across the nation to restore the freedom of American women to again make their own healthcare decisions without overreach from far-extreme politicians. Take stock, we defeated Herndon.

REBECCA HOLLAND

Sandpoint