Festival for choice
MELBOURNE — In a new venture in a six-month campaign for improvements to contraceptive and reproductive options, the Feminist Offensive for Reproductive Freedom (FORF) will hold a Festival for Reproductive Freedom on February 8.
"The Feminist Offensive for Reproductive Freedom takes a strong pro-choice perspective that goes beyond defending inadequate abortion laws and limited reproductive choices from continual attacks", FORF spokesperson Jan Carr said.
She said that if reproductive choices are to be real, women need not only free safe abortion on demand, but improved, safe, pleasant and reliable contraceptive methods. Women need adequate, independent and guaranteed incomes, free 24-hour child-care, and improved housing and health provision.
"There must be no forced contraception, abortion or sterilisation on eugenic, racist or anti-disability grounds. Gay men and lesbians must not be denied reproductive and child-rearing options."
The festival, to be held on Saturday, February 8, 2-5 p.m. at the Carlton Gardens behind the Exhibition Building, will include speeches for children and adults, the Koori women's band Tiddas and actors from the Melbourne Workers Theatre. For more information, or for any pro-choice group wishing to set up a stall, ring Jan on 380 1552. FORF's campaign will culminate in a rally in April.