Better Access Through Technology

On Saturday, September 10, 2016, thousands came together to call for an end to abortion stigma. Locally, the first ever Abortion Access Hackathon was hosted by reproductive health clinic Women’s Health Specialists, California National Organization for Women, and the All Access Coalition, at UC Davis.

A hackathon, a think tank where common problems are solved via technology, brought together tech folks, legal minds and activists. Together, they broke barriers to abortion access.

“The picket line is online,” shared Shireen Whitaker, Social Media Coordinator for Women’s Health Specialists.

Harassment of providers, online misinformation and complex reporting of violations were all addressed by the vibrant team of volunteers.

“Modernizing access is vital,” said Somer Loen, President of San Francisco NOW. “I work in tech. When we work from a place without stigma, we vastly improve healthcare options.”

All Access sponsored events nationwide, anchored by a streamed live concert featuring Sia and comedians Jessica Williams and Leslie Jones.

Women’s Health Specialists and CA NOW are planning a second hackathon in the coming months.

For updates on upcoming events, email Mail@cawhs.org