Central students advocate for reproductive health access in statewide webinar

Two students from Central Connecticut State University joined a state-wide conversation on March 12 about reproductive health services and access on college campuses, sharing how student advocacy is helping expand resources for their peers.

Amya Smith and Amelia Hermit participated in “Reproductive Health on Connecticut College Campuses,” a webinar hosted by the Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity & Opportunity. The commission works to inform policymakers about the needs of women, children and families, seniors, and African American, Asian Pacific-American, Latino, and Puerto Rican communities across the state.

The panel brought together policymakers, advocates, students, and speakers including Melvette Hill, executive director of the commission; State Rep. Kate Farrar; and Liz Gustafson, Connecticut state director for Reproductive Equity Now. Students from Central Connecticut State University, University of Connecticut, and the UConn Health campus also shared updates about student-led initiatives.

During discussions leading up to the event, Smith and Hermit highlighted a series of Women’s Center programs focused on reproductive health, hygiene, and access to resources. Students also worked with vendors to add more vending machines on campus that dispense tampons. Six additional machines are expected to be installed.

The students also discussed proposals aimed at expanding access to reproductive health supplies outside regular office hours. Among the initiatives in the works are vending machines that dispense male and female condoms as well as emergency contraception, ensuring students can obtain essential items after the Wellness Center closes. Discussion also covered ways the state might support universities with maintaining and restocking the machines.

Student panelists also suggested additional ways campuses could support reproductive health education and services, such as including more information about reproductive resources into First-Year Experience sessions; offering more opportunities for students to learn about health insurance coverage; and expanding after-hours mental health services.

Lawmakers are expected to take the student ideas to the committee of cognizance for further consideration.