Photo of LaKia Williams
Project Assistant, Person-Centered Reproductive Health Program, University of California, San Francisco’s Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health
Community Coordinator, Abortion on Our Own Terms Campaign
She/Her
SSE ’21
Reproductive justice is of utmost importance for LaKia Williams, both personally and professionally. As Project Assistant within the Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health and as the Community Coordinator for the Abortion on Our Own Terms Campaign, Williams is an advocate for health equity for marginalized groups through both research and grassroots organizing.
“As a descendant of enslaved people, the history of reproductive oppression of enslaved women is something that feels very personal to me,” described Williams. “Unfortunately, the history of reproductive oppression doesn’t stop in the past. The current racial disparities in maternal mortality and morbidity and the lack of access to abortion care for Black people and other marginalized demographics highlights the need for reproductive health researchers, providers, and lawmakers who are dedicated to improving the lives and reproductive experiences of the most marginalized people.”
Reproductive health, rights, and justice have long been passions for Williams, who was a Newcomb Scholar during her time at Tulane. She also served as President of Students United for Reproductive Justice (SURJ), attended Public Leadership Education Network (PLEN) seminars, and was an intern in the Institute’s Reproductive Rights and Reproductive Health Internship Program.
“I feel that Tulane, and Newcomb specifically, went above and beyond in preparing me for a career in reproductive health, rights, and justice,” said Williams. “I was afforded many opportunities, from attending conferences to doing research abroad, that allowed me to grow in my understanding of the work I currently do and to grow as an individual. I am deeply appreciative of the Newcomb Scholars Program and Dr. Clare Daniel, who was dedicated to my educational and professional growth, and constantly presented me with opportunities and connections, even after graduation.”
Williams is ready for a long career advocating for access to reproductive healthcare and hopes to become an abortion provider that can offer full spectrum services to those that need them most.