In the United States, “homemade” abortion is a phenomenon that is emerging on social networks while several states in the country are increasingly banning voluntary termination of pregnancy (abortion). To face the restrictions, women are organizing themselves using social networks as an information channel.
While Arizona has just repealed a law dating from the 19the century which prohibited abortion, around twenty American states took the opposite direction by banning or restricting access to abortion. The counterattack is organized on social networks.
“Have an abortion with me!”, are the first words said in a cheerful tone by Sunni in a Tik Tok video. The young single mother from Brooklyn dances to jazzy music in her kitchen: “Come have an abortion with me!” And added: “I hesitated to make this video, but I think it’s important: it’s the kind of video I was looking for.”
For this 30-year-old woman, who experienced great difficulties during the birth of her daughter three years ago, it is not a question of sharing a recipe or extolling the merits of any product, but good to talk about her voluntary termination of pregnancy, to describe which tablets to take and how to avoid the pain.
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The influencer details the practical aspects of her medical abortion at home; she received the necessary products by postal parcel. This method increased in the United States as different states block access to abortion.
This type of video explodes on social networks according to the New York Times; Sunni’s has been viewed more than 400,000 times. And, like other content of the genre, it sparks an avalanche of comments. Internet users welcome useful videos which fill a lack of information and break a taboo, others write scandalized comments. This reflects the extent to which the subject divides and inflames American society, particularly in the run-up to the November presidential election.
The debate on social networks could, however, be hampered: some States are now considering continuing the simple act of sharing information on voluntary termination of pregnancy.
Radio subject: Julie Rausis
Web article: Stéphanie Jaquet
