Name: Deyton
Pronouns: She/her
Astrological Sign: Taurus—Sun Taurus, Moon Aries, Rising Leo
Hobbies: I love listening to music! My favorite album ever is folklore. Along with that I love going to concerts with my friends! I highly enjoy reading and walking around Barnes and Noble while drinking a little coffee. You can either find me shopping for books or clothes, as I am also into fashion and thrifting. Overall I just love to chill with a candle burning while I watch my show/read my current book.
Favorite Snack: Urge! Salt and Vinegar kettle cooked chips from Kwik Trip.
How did you become involved with Planned Parenthood?
I got the opportunity to intern with Planned Parenthood this summer as a Path to Power intern. This was my first experience getting physically involved, though I have been a long term supporter for years. I am excited for the opportunity to get involved, as I have been wanting to for a long time.
Why is it important for you to advocate for sexual and reproductive health care?
I did not receive comprehensive sex education or had any knowledge about reproductive health care growing up. When I came to college, I felt a little behind other students within this genre, as I didn’t have the chance to learn about it, and it created harmful and wrongly informed ideas in my head. I have now grown out of them and have learned so much about sexual and reproductive health, but for a while I didn’t know anything. I think it is important for everyone to have a fulfilling education. Not having it causes harmful stigma and a lot of information is passed around that is not true about sexual and reproductive health care. Sexual health and sex ed is about much more than just sex, but the importance of consent, discussions of healthy relationships, types of contraceptives and birth control, inclusive talks of safe sex, and so much more.
What does it mean to you to be an activist/advocate in your community?
I have been inspired by other people to start doing activism, and I would really like to be able to do the same for other people. If my work can inspire at least one person to start advocating or starting activism, I would be very happy. I want other people to not be afraid to fight for things, and for the community to realize the power that can come from working together.
What are you excited to learn this summer as a Path to Power Intern?
I am excited to learn about the things I can accomplish in my community. I want to learn about events and the work that goes into hosting them, and hopefully be able to host my own event! With hosting events, I think it would be great to have community based events and inspire local people to see what we can accomplish.
What role do you think young people have in fighting for reproductive freedom and health equity?
Young people have great power in fighting for reproductive freedom and health equity. We have the power to vote, and encourage others to do so. Not only this, but my generation has learned from years and years of non-stop fighting from previous generations. We learn from them, take their experiences and use it as inspiration to what we are doing now. I believe we couldn't have done it without previous generations, and we are very strong-headed in continuing the fight for reproductive freedom and health equity!
What advice do you have for someone who wants to get involved in advocating for sexual and reproductive health care?
Start now! The sooner the better. The little things count, from attending events being held in your city/attending virtual events, to signing up to volunteer, there are many opportunities that you can do to get involved! Tell your friends and family about events, and have them come along too! A great way to be involved in advocating for sexual and reproductive health care is also to stay away from harmful stigma, and have conversations about issues. If you hear discussions that seem incorrect or harmful, in school, work, at home, etc. have a peaceful conversation about it and don’t be afraid to call people in on topics! Always stay educated! There is always something new to learn, and knowledge is power!
Tags: