The 2007 election cycle saw significant gains in the number of pro-choice Delegates and Senators—and even the ascension of pro-choice leadership in the State Senate for the first time in a decade.  But as the 2008 session proved, we still have a long way to go to reach a pro-choice majority in both houses—an important goal if we want to protect and expand reproductive rights in Virginia.   

Even with the numbers stacked against us, NARAL Pro-Choice Virginia, our amazing coalition partners, and our allies in the legislature defeated all 17 anti-choice bills introduced this session—including efforts to immediately outlaw abortion in Virginia if Roe is overturned; designs to place onerous and medically unnecessary regulations on clinics; and attempts to prevent Virginia’s young people from accessing medically accurate, comprehensive sexuality education in our public schools.

All along the way, NARAL Pro-Choice Virginia members and supporters were on the front lines of the battle to protect reproductive choice in Richmond.  Our grassroots network of supporters sent thousands of emails and made hundreds of calls to legislators, ensuring anti-choice messages from a vocal minority did not go unanswered.  Over 400 pro-choice activists from around the state participated in the Pro-Choice Coalition’s Lobby Day on January 31, conducting face to face lobbying visits with many of the 140 members of the General Assembly.

But it’s important to remember—the only way we can continue to be effective in protecting reproductive rights and health is to maintain the grassroots pressure our members put on the state legislature.  NARAL Pro-Choice Virginia is committed to maintaining this grassroots network and training the next generation of pro-choice leaders.