Summary
Highlights
In May 1972, the Chicago police busted Jane's operation, arresting several members and women waiting for abortions. They were charged with serious felonies. Despite the initial shock and fear, the group quickly regrouped, arranging for new abortions for the women affected and continuing their work. The legal case was eventually dismissed due to the changing legal landscape.
Before abortion was legal, women faced immense difficulties and judgment when they found themselves pregnant and not wanting to carry to term. Doctors were unhelpful, often shaming women and offering no solutions. Desperate women resorted to dangerous and terrifying illegal abortions, risking their lives, or felt trapped into unwanted motherhood.
In 1965, after being involved in civil rights activism, a woman helped a friend find an abortion. Realizing the widespread need, she began organizing a system for abortion counseling and referrals, which became known as 'Jane.' Initially a student network, the service provided anonymous support and connected women with a discreet doctor.
The late 1960s were a time of political upheaval, with the Vietnam War, assassinations, and social unrest. Radical movements were largely male-dominated, and women's issues, like abortion, were often sidelined. The formation of Jane was influenced by this climate, as women sought to create change and provide a vital service for themselves.
Initially, Jane referred women to a doctor, 'Mike,' who performed the abortions. The women of Jane grew increasingly frustrated with Mike's exploitative fees and questionable ethics. After discovering 'Mike' was not a licensed doctor, the women learned to perform abortions themselves. This marked a significant shift, empowering the women of Jane to take direct control over the service and lower costs.
The women of Jane provided comprehensive support, explaining medical and emotional aspects of the procedure, and offering compassionate care. They were self-taught, learning through on-the-job training. As their skills grew, so did the demand for their services, particularly among low-income women who could not afford legal abortions elsewhere. The service emphasized empathy and demystified the medical process for women.
Jane operated out of two apartments: a 'front' where women waited and received initial counseling, and a separate location where procedures were performed. They handled a high volume of women, often more than 100 per week, and adjusted fees based on ability to pay. The clandestine nature of their work meant constant vigilance, including being aware of potential wiretaps and maintaining secrecy.
When Roe v. Wade legalized abortion nationwide in 1973, Jane's illegal operation became obsolete. While the decision was a victory, it didn't solve all problems, particularly for poor and young women. The members of Jane reflected on their experiences, the emotional toll, and the enduring legacy of their courage and commitment to providing safe abortions when no one else would.
The members of Jane emphasize the importance of ordinary people taking action to create change, drawing parallels to the Underground Railroad. They highlight the need for women to educate themselves, seek out supportive communities, and advocate for their rights. The story of Jane serves as a testament to women's ability to unite, overcome differences, and accomplish extraordinary things.