Advocating for Reproductive Justice: My Internship with SisterLove

By Aleyea Mogilles

the golden ratio symbol with "policy, advocacy, and mobilization lunch and learn" written on the side

This past summer I had the opportunity to work with SisterLove, which is an organization focused on HIV, sexual and reproductive health rights and justice advocacy. I worked as the Policy, Advocacy, and Mobilization team’s intern throughout my time with SisterLove. My main project was to craft a policy brief focused on the Black Maternal Mortality crisis. Additionally, I wrote weekly statements on current events, assisted in brainstorming for future events, and provided input on current initiatives. My statements mainly focused on the city of Atlanta and recent updates surrounding political movements as well as the local legislature’s actions. My time at SisterLove taught me invaluable lessons and provided me a glimpse into the nonprofit world. My internship further instilled my passion for reproductive justice through the company’s eagerness to learn as well as advocate for all. SisterLove is a clear representation of the future of nonprofits. The company’s values are shown through all of their work and their towards achieving reproductive freedom for all.

The highlight of my internship was being given opportunity to research the Black Maternal Mortality crisis in Georgia. Prior to my internship, I was not familiar with the severity of the issue. As a Black woman, it was frightening to learn about the neglect of Black women within the United States government and healthcare system. The policy brief contained a detailed outline that described the origin as well as the current state of Black maternal mortality. The policy brief also gave me the opportunity to analyze past and present legislation around the country to better address the issue. Additionally, the policy brief provided me with the background to come up with my own legislative recommendations. After thorough research, I recommend that Georgia implement implicit bias training as well as an increase in funding geared toward maternal mortality research. The Policy, Advocacy, and Mobilization team supported my efforts throughout my internship and will use my findings to highlight the severity of the issue throughout Georgia.

I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to learn from SisterLove. The atmosphere and community within the organization is extremely welcoming. Throughout my internship I felt valued and heard. My internship allowed me to get a firsthand view of an organization that was managed with a Feminist ideology and Reproductive Justice mindset. SisterLove inspired me to continue my passion towards fighting for equality for all people. I hope to continue to foster a relationship with those I have met and worked with throughout my internship.