Taking a Stand for Reproductive Freedom
- theelmsw
- Jan 19
- 2 min read
In the face of corporate complicity with laws that restrict reproductive rights, our family decided to take action. In 2021 we completed the arduous process of switching phone carriers, leaving AT&T after more than a decade of service. Our decision was prompted by AT&T's significant financial support of Texas lawmakers who authored and sponsored Senate Bill 8 (SB8), a law that effectively criminalized reproductive healthcare in Texas.
Even before the Dobbs decision that overturned Roe v. Wade, we recognized the devastating impact SB8 would have on women's privacy and reproductive healthcare. As parents of six daughters - all independent young women living in states where reproductive rights are currently protected - we felt compelled to act. While we're fortunate to have the resources to help any relative or friend who might need to leave Texas for healthcare, we're acutely aware that millions of families don't have this luxury.
The Switch: A Small Act of Resistance
Our switch involved transferring service for:
1 landline
6 cell phones
2 iPads
It was a time-consuming and often frustrating process, but we viewed it as a necessary act of resistance. During this transition, I made it a point to explain our reasons for leaving to every customer service representative I spoke with. Surprisingly, many were unaware of AT&T's political contributions and their implications. I even encouraged one young man to research the issue while we were on the call.
The Impact of Corporate Donations
AT&T's political action committee (PAC) has donated over $300,000 to co-sponsors of SB8 since 2018. This level of financial support to lawmakers pushing for restrictive reproductive laws is deeply concerning. It's a stark reminder of how corporate money can influence legislation that affects millions of lives.
A Call to Action
While I can't be certain if our individual action made a significant difference, I believe in the power of collective consumer choices. By refusing to do business with companies that support legislation that assaults personal freedoms and healthcare access, we send a clear message, and sleep better at night.
I encourage others to:
Research the political contributions of companies you patronize
Consider switching service providers if their values don't align with yours
Communicate your reasons for leaving to customer service representatives and company management
Our family's decision to leave AT&T was more than just switching phone carriers - it was a statement against corporate funding of laws that restrict reproductive rights. It's a small act of resistance, but one we hope will contribute to a larger movement for change.
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