AMHERST — Reproductive rights will be the topic at the 35th anniversary conference of Hampshire College’s civil liberties and public policy program this weekend.
The conference, “From Abortion Rights to Social Justice: Building the Movement for Reproductive Freedom” is scheduled April 8 through 10 at Hampshire. Attendees will gain skills needed to organize in a political climate that organizers say is hostile to reproductive rights, according to a release.
Organizers say that over the last five years there has been an increase in legislation meant to restrict abortion access in the United States.
“Leadership protecting everyone’s right to bodily autonomy is needed now more than ever — and CLPP helps develop it,” Lucy Trainor, assistant program director said in the release. “Part of what makes the conference vital to activism across the country is that we highlight the connections between reproductive justice and other social-justice movements.”
The event will feature over 80 workshops and some 160 speakers. Topics include “Campus Accountability, Consent, and Ending Rape Culture,” and “Debunking Media Myths & Anti-Choice Lies in the 2016 Presidential Election Cycle.”
Some workshops will be offered with Spanish translation. The event is wheelchair-accessible. Childcare will be provided free of charge.
Those in need may be eligible for reduced entry fee and no one will be turned away for lack of funds, according to the release.
For a list of conference speakers and workshops or to reserve tickets, visit www.clpp.hampshire.edu/conference. Organizers ask that those interested register by Monday as there is limited on-site registration.
The conference begins Friday in Franklin Patterson Hall. Friday workshops will run from 4 to 6 p.m. “Breaking Silences: An Abortion Speak Out” will take place on Friday at 7:30 p.m. in the Robert Crown Center. Workshops continue on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to noon.