Women Across Latin America Unite in Massive March for Abortion Rights

By Lucia Paula , Parent Herald Sep 30, 03:58 am

Photo: (Photo : Gayatri Malhotra on Unsplash)

International Safe Abortion Day saw an outpouring of emotion and strength across Latin America as streets were transformed into rivers of green, with tens of thousands of women coming together to advocate for their reproductive rights. In a region where abortion laws have been historically restrictive, some countries like the Dominican Republic and El Salvador still uphold stringent bans on the procedure.

Mexico's Monumental Milestone: Celebrating Supreme Court's Landmark Ruling

In Mexico, the atmosphere was electric with a sense of victory. Demonstrators came out in large numbers to celebrate a landmark decision by the Supreme Court to decriminalize abortions at the federal level. This monumental step is seen as a beacon of hope in a country whose legal stance on reproductive rights has been traditionally swayed by its deeply ingrained conservative and religious values.
Fernanda Castro, an instrumental organizer at GIRE, the organization that championed the lawsuit that culminated in this decision, expressed her elation: "It's absolutely an achievement." Yet she was quick to highlight the next monumental hurdle on this journey: "decriminalizing abortion in the minds of the people."

While this Supreme Court ruling has set a precedent, it's crucial to note that abortion remains criminalized in 20 states within Mexico. However, there's a discernible pattern of change sweeping the region. It began around 15 years ago, when Mexico City pioneered the movement to decriminalize abortion. This groundbreaking initiative acted as a catalyst, sparking similar changes in Argentina by 2020 and, surprisingly, in the traditionally conservative nation of Colombia by 2022.

Brazil, another significant player in the region, is teetering on the brink of change. As it stands, abortion in Brazil is criminalized, with a few exemptions permitted in scenarios such as rape or serious fetal birth defects.
However, there is rising hope, pinned on a case currently under review by the Brazilian Supreme Court. If successful, it might pave the way for the decriminalization of abortion procedures up to 12 weeks of gestation.

Fernanda Castro, ever the optimist, declared with conviction, "The green wave is going to keep growing, and Brazilian women can rest assured that they're not embarking on this journey alone."

Buenos Aires' Atmosphere of Apprehension: October Elections Stir Concerns

In contrast, while Mexico and other nations had a predominantly celebratory ambiance during their marches, Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, was clouded with apprehension. With the looming October elections, many participants felt a storm of unease. The rise of right-wing candidate Javier Milei, now leading in the polls, has many concerned.
Milei has not only voiced opposition to abortion rights but has also criticized sex education in schools and free medical procedures for gender transitions. His promise to start a referendum that might overturn the decriminalization of abortion that Congress approved in 2022 has increased concerns.

Amid the throngs in Argentina, art student Sara Rivas voiced her concerns about Milei, stating that he consistently dismisses and denies issues ranging from the severe problem of femicide to the historical struggles and sacrifices that gave birth to the green wave movement. But, echoing the spirit of many around her, she also highlighted the indomitable spirit of Latin American women, saying, "We are here. We aren't going anywhere. We've fought for our rights in the streets, and that's exactly where we'll continue to protect them."
The green wave movement, beautifully encapsulated by the green handkerchiefs proudly displayed by demonstrators, is a shining testament to the resilience, unity, and enduring spirit of women across Latin America.