Reproductive Issues in Asian-American Communities

Connie Chan’s essay on Asian-American reproductive rights really opened my eyes to an issue I have never considered before. I have never considered the fact that when dealing with abortions that sexism, racism, and language barriers could be that much of a problem. It’s shocking to see that these women, who are essentially making a decision based on survival, aren’t offered services that meet their needs. They can’t see their regular doctor and are forced to go to a doctor they don’t know and can’t understand to have a very significant operation, while also having to pay for it out of pocket because their health benefits won’t cover it when money may be a reason they’re getting the abortion in the first place. It’s a shame that little consideration is given to these women who are just trying to create a better life for their families. I also find it shameful that women, like Kai Ling, get yelled at by strangers who are anti-abortion when these people know nothing about them or their situation. For many of these women getting an abortion is not an easy decision, but a necessary one for survival. It’s almost as if they don’t really have a choice in the matter; they either have an abortion or they won’t be able to eat. These women are underrepresented and misunderstood. In all the confusion and misunderstandings, these women need people to stand up for them, to help them.