College funds abortions for students.

Wesleyan University to Cover Abortion Costs for Students

A liberal arts university in Connecticut is making waves by announcing that it will cover the costs of abortions and emergency contraceptives for its students, regardless of their insurance status. Wesleyan University made the announcement last week, following a pressure campaign from the university’s Young Democratic Socialists of America chapter.

Breaking Down the Decision

The university has committed to paying for any student who wishes to get an abortion or Plan B contraceptive, as well as any transportation costs incurred by students seeking abortions. The school’s health center will provide education and support in the decision-making process, and students can access emergency contraceptives by consulting with a nurse at Davison Health Center.

A Victory for Reproductive Justice

The Young Democratic Socialists of America chapter at Wesleyan collected over 700 signatures on a petition that urged the school to ensure all students have access to abortion procedures, regardless of financial burdens or lack of transportation. The student organization called the decision a victory for reproductive justice, and noted that Wesleyan now plays a pioneering role in reproductive healthcare among private liberal arts colleges.

Access to Abortion in the College Decision-Making Process

With numerous states banning abortion altogether, access to abortion has become a factor in the college decision-making process for many students. However, Democratic-controlled states have taken steps to make abortion as available to college students as a flu shot. The entire University of California and California State University systems are required by law to provide abortion pills to students, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst announced last year that it would provide abortion pills on campus as well.

Wesleyan University’s decision to cover abortion costs for its students is a groundbreaking move in the fight for reproductive justice and access to healthcare.