Sex, Soc Justice/Billof Rights

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

This seminar will explore the regulation of women’s reproductive lives in the United States through a social justice and constitutional law framework. We will examine the elements of the federal Constitution and the Bill of Rights that have been used by the courts to protect reproductive rights, sexual freedom and parenting rights. In this seminar, we will analyze public policies related to reproduction, contraception, forced sterilization, forced birth, abortion, fetal protectionism (including drug/ alcohol use and other pregnancy regulation), and welfare. Discussion will include issues of social justice, racial justice, health care access, and health care equity; gender, cultural, race and socioeconomic class issues; vulnerable populations such as incarcerated women, immigrants, minors, welfare recipients and persons with intellectual and mental disabilities. We will consider the evolution of relevant federal and state laws from a historical, ethical, social and religious framework. We may consider various international perspectives as well. Please note this seminar will not cover adoption, foster care, or IVF/ assisted reproduction.