That Party for Women's Rights

On June 24, 2022 the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the landmark 1973 case, stripping women across the country from their right to abortion care. This ruling means that in states where abortion is not protected at the state level, the life-saving surfaces are illegal for doctors to perform.

In response to this act of violence, CASP Studio 4’s ¥ung Cry Baby and Laura, a local activist, concocted this idea for Lubbock House Shows for a Cause to fundraise for organizations focused on women’s reproductive rights, specifically Planned Parenthood and Buckle Bunnies.

"I was thinking about how we go to these house shows all the time, for no real reason except for to party anyway," said Laura. "Then when they made the Roe v. Wade decision -- well basically it made me really depressed and I didn't know what to do. And this is the only way that I know how to cope with everything thats going on."

This event, coinedThe One Where They Party for Abortion Rights, brought together musical acts such as Tales of Dionysus, Musicodec, Robber Baron, Analog Junky, and FlipCup to the stage, while work from local artists Allie Aguirre, Krys Applegate, Dave Clayton, Julie Raven, and curated vintage clothing from Israel Reyna are showcased around the studio.

"The neutral point, in my opinion, is just being pro-choice," said Laura. "If you're not actually working toward making changes, fundraising or anything, then you aren't really making a positive effect in the world, right?"

House Shows for a Cause raised over $500 for Planned Parenthood and Buckle Bunnies.

West Texas Planned Parenthood set up a booth in front to spread awareness and information, and a city hall worker made an appearance to register attendees to vote.

This event brought out individuals from all ages and backgrounds to support women's reproductive rights, and while people often try to fight hate with hate, Laura is fighting it with community, and that might have something to do with the fact that she isn't a U.S. citizen -- she was born in Germany.

"I think that's another big reason why I'm doing this, and why I'm so vocal about political policies," Laura said. "I can't vote, so I feel like in order to do something I have to make my voice heard and empower the community."