In this month’s edition of “Backline Love,” we hear from Karen Law, Executive Director of Pro-Choice Resources. PCR is a grassroots organization in Minneapolis working to provide a full span of reproductive health services to women and youth through advocacy, access, education and empowerment.
Can you describe your work (paid, volunteer, life) for us? Give us the what, where, why, and how.
I’ve have been fortunate to work at Pro-Choice Resources (PCR) for five and a half years as the Executive Director. PCR was the perfect place to combine my experience working and volunteering in non-profits for over 23 years and my passion for social and reproductive justice.
I found out about the organization from a family member who had heard about the open ED position. It was kind of a fluke notice and I dropped by the office unannounced before I applied to see what the office and staff were like. As soon as I walked in, I was hooked. The staff was incredible and the office vibe was great. I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else in this movement. After I took the position I later found out that my mother-in-law used the Hersey Abortion Assistance Fund for years to help youth she served when she was a public school nurse.
What four words would you use to describe your role in the movement?
An unapologetic, bold, quiet leader. These words don’t typically roll together, but it’s a pretty accurate description of how I move through this world.
How does Backline’s mission and work resonate with you and relate to the work that you do?
Backline feels like a sister organization. Our missions and even the language we use in removing the stigma around abortion is so similar, it sometimes feels like we are working in the same space. Both organizations understand the complexities in this movement and that one size or approach doesn’t fit all! There seems to be a true alignment in how we approach the work, which is just so refreshing.
As a mom of two kids (one is in college and one in high school) it’s important to me that there are organizations in our community that work with people to address the many stages in our life and that they do it without shame or judgment.
How do you see Backline as a contributor to your work and the work of the movement as a whole?
It’s clear to me that our movement will be successful if we can find ways to work together more closely and learn from each other. No one group or organization has all of the answers. At PCR we are committed to seeking out the best practices in our field of work. Backline is at the forefront of providing support and a broad range of services that covers the spectrum of reproductive options.
What are your top three must-read blogs/sites/publications?
RH Reality Check, Abortion Gang, Feministing
You are now a superhero! What is your name, power, and outfit?
Not sure if I should be proud of this, but my call name with my family is Mad Cobra – they say it’s because I can sit silently and go undetected, but I can strike at a moments notice. I’m still working on the right outfit!