U-32 high school juniors Ella Thomas and Annalise Eckhaus, both from Calais, have been talking about what’s next for HERVermont after revealing their mural for reproductive justice. The project kicked off in the fall of 2023 as a way for students to earn health credits through a self-directed learning program instead of taking a traditional course. Eckhaus, Thomas, and other students teamed up with Kayla Becker, a Montpelier-based reproductive health educator and independent psycho-spiritual bodyworker.
HERVermont was founded by these five students from central Vermont to share their knowledge and more. Thomas explained that they started by learning about the history of reproductive justice and the unimaginable hardships women faced in the past. The organization’s goal is to spread awareness about this history, particularly focusing on eugenics and the forced sterilization of women, which is often overlooked.
The students are currently in talks with various schools to arrange presentations on this sensitive topic, emphasizing the importance of female health. They are also reaching out to women on a native reservation to provide education there, especially since indigenous women were heavily targeted by oppression. Eckhaus, who has a passion for art, is considering gender studies as a potential major, while Thomas is also interested in continuing her studies in gender-related issues.
HERVermont has received financial support from Mosaic VT and recently held a mural opening ceremony at the Montpelier Arts HUB in late March. The event featured speakers like Gov. Madeleine Kunin, Dottye Ricks from the League of Women Voters, and representatives from the Akwesasne community. The organization’s future plans include developing more educational materials, hosting events, establishing peer-to-peer education programs, forming HERVermont chapters in other schools and colleges, and eventually becoming a nonprofit organization.
The mural created by the students depicts a female figure surrounded by nature, symbolizing reproductive justice and honoring those who suffered from unethical practices in the past. Three moons in the background represent the triple goddess, while healing herbs and flowers grow on the figure’s body. A giant uterus hovers above her, and names of women who were affected by such injustices are written in the sky like stars. The artwork aims to raise awareness about the struggles women have faced and continue to face in terms of reproductive rights.
Overall, HERVermont is dedicated to advocating for social justice and reproductive education, with a strong focus on empowering women and shedding light on the dark history of reproductive injustices. Through their commitment to education, activism, and art, these students are making a meaningful impact in their community and beyond.
