Around the world, pregnant individuals face barriers to accessing safe, compassionate care, and providers encounter more challenges in ensuring reproductive rights are protected. Yet, in the face of adversity, members at Medical Students for Choice (MSFC) continue to make a lasting impact.
Two of our board members share their insights on the progress made in reproductive health and education, the significance of hands-on training, and the importance of supporting future healthcare professionals. Their perspectives highlight the hope and momentum in our community:
Jennifer Zhang, President-Elect
University of British Columbia
“As a Canadian medical student, I am grateful that in Canada, abortion remains legal and an available medical procedure. W hile environmental and systems barriers exist in accessing abortion, it is important that here we can practice without risks of provider or patient criminalization However, hands-on learning is rare, and didactic teaching is also limited. In the US, uncertainty surrounds the future of abortion care. At MSFC, we continue to support and champion the reproductive justice movement.
This year, MSFC’s in-person Conference on Family Planning (CoFP) was a unique space where folks could share experiences and learnings on abortion care and reproductive justice, which is much needed for current and aspiring providers practicing in all levels of restrictions. Providing hands-on practice opportunities and collaborative sessions that are rarely found in medical curriculums, the CoFP is something I am very grateful for and leaves me invigorated for the coming year.”
Dr. Hadiza P B Thompson
University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
“As we enter a new year, I want to reflect on the immense strides made in reproductive health and justice, both in the US and across the globe. What we did last year was nothing short of inspiring! It is a work grounded in compassion, resilience, and a commitment to every person’s right to access comprehensive reproductive care regardless of where they live or the barriers they face. I am deeply grateful for the in-person trainings that continue helping medical students and professionals with the tools, knowledge, and courage needed to effect change. These training sessions are spaces of advocacy and learning, where every action brings us one step closer to a world where reproductive rights are human rights.
MSFC is shaping the future of reproductive health and justice, not just in the U.S. but in Africa. In places where access to abortion care is limited, where sexual and reproductive health education is sparse, and where systemic barriers continue to prevent many people from receiving the care they need, we are making an indelible mark. This work is especially crucial in Africa, where both cultural and political challenges often exacerbate reproductive health disparities. Through training and advocacy, MSFC is creating a new generation of healthcare professionals who are ready to provide care, committed to challenging the status quo, and advocate for reproductive justice at every turn. Looking ahead, I am filled with hope. The strides we’ve made, though significant, are only the beginning. What we are doing together–whether through education, resources, or policy change–is laying the foundation for a future where reproductive justice is a reality for all.
To you reading this, know that you are part of something monumental. Your impact, whether through your actions or your support of MSFC and organizations like it, is shaping a future where reproductive health and rights are accessible to everyone, everywhere. As we enter this new year, let’s hold onto our mission, knowing that each day we are bringing hope to the hearts of those who need it most and restoring their dignity and autonomy.
Thank you for being part of this transformative journey. We will continue to achieve feats and move closer to a world where all reproductive health choices are freely accessible.”
This work would not be possible without the dedication of our supporters, members, and allies. Our MSFC community is shaping the future of reproductive health where education and hands-on training are the necessary tools for change.
