On May 28, 2025, communities across the United States came together to observe the International Day of Action for Women’s Health, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for women and girls. Marked annually on this day since 1987, this year’s theme—”In Solidarity We Resist: Our Fight, Our Right!”—called for unified action in protecting bodily autonomy amid rising global challenges.
From New York to California, hundreds of events unfolded to amplify awareness of women’s health issues, spotlight systemic inequalities, and push for legislative action. These initiatives, driven by grassroots organizations, nonprofits, and public health institutions, served to empower women, raise visibility for underrepresented communities, and inspire change.
Events Across the Nation Celebrate Women’s Health
Advocates and health professionals coordinated a range of activities, including health fairs, educational forums, wellness workshops, and public demonstrations. These gatherings focused on key topics like comprehensive reproductive healthcare, access to contraception, menstrual hygiene education, and maternal mortality reduction.
At the heart of many events was a focus on inclusivity and intersectionality. Panels discussed how race, socio-economic status, and geography affect women’s access to quality healthcare. Special attention was given to Indigenous, Black, Latina, and rural populations, who often face significant disparities in health outcomes.
“Too many women in America still struggle to access the basic healthcare they deserve,” said Dr. Maria Clark, an OB-GYN and community health advocate in Chicago. “This day is about both celebrating how far we’ve come and recognizing how far we still need to go.”
Policy Calls and Legislative Demands
The day wasn’t just symbolic—it served as a political rallying cry. Several organizations, including Planned Parenthood, the Center for Reproductive Rights, and the National Women’s Health Network, used the platform to urge lawmakers to safeguard existing protections and introduce new policies aimed at ensuring universal access to reproductive health services.
Proposed legislative actions included expanding Medicaid coverage for postpartum care, increasing federal funding for Title X family planning services, and passing the Women’s Health Protection Act, which would codify abortion rights nationally.
“This is not just about reproductive rights—it’s about human rights,” emphasized Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, who spoke at a Boston rally. “Healthcare must be inclusive, affordable, and rooted in justice.”
Climate Change and Its Impact on Women’s Health
Another rising concern highlighted during the day was the intersection between climate change and women’s health. Increasing heat waves, air pollution, and natural disasters disproportionately affect pregnant women and those with chronic health conditions. Studies have shown that environmental stressors can increase the risk of premature birth and other complications.
Workshops across Florida, Texas, and California explored these connections and emphasized the need for gender-specific climate resilience strategies in healthcare planning.
A Global Movement, Locally Driven
Although the International Day of Action for Women’s Health is globally recognized, American efforts highlighted the importance of local activism. Organizations tailored their messages to resonate with community-specific concerns—be it lack of rural healthcare infrastructure, immigration-related barriers, or language accessibility.
Grassroots groups in states with restricted reproductive laws, such as Texas and Tennessee, held events aimed at educating women on their rights and available resources.
Looking Forward: The Road to Equity
As the United States reflects on both victories and challenges in women’s health, the day served as a sobering reminder of the continued fight for bodily autonomy and healthcare access. While strides have been made, experts warn that political volatility could reverse decades of progress.
Health leaders are calling on the public to stay engaged, informed, and involved beyond this one-day observance.
“Awareness is the first step, but action is what creates real change,” said Lily Mendoza, director of a Los Angeles-based women’s health nonprofit. “Every woman deserves the right to live with dignity, free from barriers to care.”
