abortion stories on the hill

June 24, 2026

To mark the fourth anniversary of the Dobbs decision, Free & Just brought together nearly 150 patient storytellers and abortion advocates from over 35 states, to meet with lawmakers and gather strength from our community.

My team spoke with Senior Staff for Congress Members Senator Dick Durbin and Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia of Illinois.

Representative Ayanna Pressley

Photo Credit: Ruby Ella Photography/Free & Just

Representatives

Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts

and

Jennifer McClellan of Virginia

gave us inspiring send-offs.

Representative Jennifer McClellan

I attended the Senate Forum “Post Dobbs Chaos: Republicans’ War on Reproductive Health Care.” (I’m at far upper left.)

(When Senator Elizabeth Warren left the forum, I chased her down to give her the print book of the project.)

MEETING STORYTELLERS

I was honored to share the project with some of those whose stories I’ve told

Allie Phillips, Volume 4

Kate Cox, Volume 3

Theresa Van, Volume 9

Samantha Casiano, Volume 9

Emily Waldorf, Volume 9

Kayla Smith, Volume 6

Hope Ngumezi looks at book

Hope Ngumezi, husband of

Porsha Ngumezi, Volume 1