A big start to 2023!
January 8, 2023
Dear Friend,
Thanks to hundreds of generous donors, Gender Justice exceeded our end of year fundraising goals and unlocked a $5,000 challenge gift from Terry Saario and a $1,000 match from David & Marina Schlesinger!
Together, we are building a world where every person has bodily autonomy and agency— whether they are seeking an abortion, trying to stay safe in government custody, or simply wanting to live their own lives, build their families, and pursue their dreams. Thank you for making this possible!
Keep reading for more news from our team.
Update: Lusk v. Minnesota Department of Corrections
The Minnesota Department of Corrections’ motion to dismiss our lawsuit on behalf of our client, Christina Lusk, has been denied! The court found that DOC did not establish that they have immunity from lawsuit over its treatment of Ms. Lusk, a transgender woman in DOC custody who is being housed in a male facility.
Our case against DOC for discriminating against Ms. Lusk, denying her necessary medical care, and subjecting her to misgendering and harassment will proceed. This is one step further to victory for the safety and dignity of all people in our government’s care.
Case Update: Doe v. Minnesota
Less than six months ago a district court permanently blocked numerous Minnesota abortion restrictions, including a 24-hour waiting period, a ban on qualified advance-practice clinicians providing abortion care, and a requirement that young people notify both of their parents before obtaining abortion care.
This is the fourth attempt by other non-parties to intervene in the case. “The court in Doe v. Minnesota was clear when it handed down its decision six months ago: the majority of Minnesota’s abortion restrictions are unconstitutional,” said Gender Justice Legal Director, Jess Braverman. “This ruling was a landmark victory for meaningful abortion rights and access in Minnesota, and no amount of procedural maneuvering will change that.”
Podcast Launch: The Gender Justice Brief
We are thrilled to announce the launch of The Gender Justice Brief!
The Gender Justice Brief podcast will feature the latest news, case updates, legislative developments, and more about the issues that matter most. 2023 is going to be a crucial year for gender equity and reproductive rights and we have the insights and analysis you’ll need.
Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Listen on Spotify / Listen on Apple
Welcome, Reika!
We are excited to welcome Reika Yokooka Lucente to the Gender Justice team as Development Coordinator! Reika brings years of experience in nonprofit database management, grassroots fundraising, and event planning. In her previous roles, she contributed her skills to advance housing equity, racial justice, and grassroots movements at Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative and Headwaters Foundation for Justice.
As a first-generation immigrant, she calls both Minnesota and Saitama, Japan her home. She lives in the South Metro Twin Cities area with her husband, and two cats. Welcome, Reika!
Thank you for reading!
–The Gender Justice Team