A new student led organization at the University is here to talk about justice. Specifically, the recently renamed group seeks to draw attention to reproductive justice, and enabling people to make informed decisions about their own bodies. URGE UA – formerly the Alabama Alliance for Sexual and Reproductive Justice – now Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity, is a group advertising “peer-to-peer education” on topics ranging from sex, sexuality, and gender to consent, contraception and healthcare. The group hopes to shed light on the gray areas of heavy topics like sexuality and reproduction, and bring about socio-cultural changes that empower people to live healthy and free lives. 

According to President Joanna Urli, “We envision a world where all people have the social, economic and political power and resources to make healthy decisions about their bodies, sexuality and reproduction for themselves … in all areas of their lives.” 

The group is pushing its vision through activism and education, holding various meetings on topics important to students on campus, as well as involving students in advocacy days, campaigns and rallies. The next meeting on Sept. 20 at 6 p.m. is titled “Me, Myself, & I: Sorority Sex Ed,” and is being held in Lloyd 133. 

While the topics that URGE discusses are broad and complex, one issue is undoubtedly familiar to students everywhere: sexual assault. Assault on college campuses has become one of the biggest hot button issues of younger generations, with organizations and celebrities nationwide working to end social stigmas and practices that encourage sexual harassment. The It’s On Us Campaign, which has almost 100 partnerships with organizations like Snapchat and the NCAA, has accrued thousands of signatures from citizens across the country pledging to recognize and speak out against sexual assault. 

URGE doesn’t just promote an end to harassment. The group also hopes to bring support to marginalized groups such as LGBTQ+ individuals and those living in poverty, bringing to light the struggles that those individuals face regarding their health and sexuality. 

Students wanting to get involved can find more information on their Facebook page, @URGE.UA, where they can sign up for a weekly newsletter and learn about the various events URGE hosts.