About Loretta Ross

Reproductive Justice and Human Rights

Loretta Ross is a pioneering figure in reproductive justice, having co-coined the term alongside Black women activists to expand beyond choice to include the right to have children, parent in safe environments, and live free from oppression [10]. She links reproductive oppression to broader human rights violations like sterilization abuse and eugenics [10][3]. Ross transformed personal trauma into activism, detailing her history from childhood survival to leading movements [9][11]. Recent reflections highlight reproductive justice's relevance post-Roe, demanding intersectional strategies against Trump-era threats [31][27].

Calling In vs. Calling Out Culture

Ross critiques cancel culture's excesses, promoting 'calling in'—private, empathetic engagement to educate and transform rather than publicly shame [2][4][6]. Her book Calling In argues for clarity and courage in dialogue, drawing from her fiery past shaped by battling racism and sexism [8][21]. She warns call-out toxicity fractures movements, urging 'tell me more' curiosity over denunciation [14][17].

Critique of Cancel Culture and Intersectionality

Ross denounces call-out politics as divisive, evolving from 'politics of inclusion' to 'ownership' that excludes dissenters [16][19]. She calls out intersectionality's overuse as a litmus test, prioritizing relational dialogue [19]. Experiences like growing up with brothers honed her debate skills [6].

Anti-Racism and White Supremacy

Ross addresses white supremacy in Trump era, linking it to election subversion and jury nullification [20][22]. She advocates voting out injustice post-walkouts [13] and critiques NAACP leadership needs [15].

Women's Movement and Solidarity

Ross pushes for inclusive women's marches, rejecting cults for broad coalitions [18]. She reflects on 50+ years of Ms. magazine's feminism [30] and inspires through elder wisdom on Black motherhood [11].

Activism and Public Intellectual Work

As educator at Smith, Ross keynotes on dialogue across differences [5][23][32]. She emphasizes sustainable activism via calling in [12] and human rights education [1].