Why Cobalt?

 

Colorado was the first state to legalize abortion in 1967. Since then, our state has served as a model for reproductive healthcare policies. We always want to be a state that respects everyone’s ability to make healthcare decisions that are right for them. As Cobalt, we intend to keep it that way.

It’s been nearly five decades since Roe v. Wade established abortion as a constitutional right. Since then, states have enacted 1,074 laws restricting abortion - 288 of which were passed in this last decade alone (via Guttmacher Institute). We currently face the possibility of a future without Roe v. Wade - a future where abortion rights are entirely in the hands of each state. Based on our opposition’s intensifying pattern of assaults on reproductive healthcare and autonomy at the state and local level, we know too well that this future could be grim and dangerous. In a post-Roe world, we may indeed be the only state amongst our neighbors (KS, UT, WY, NE, AZ) without some form of an abortion ban, which means our work here in Colorado is even more critical.

With the attacks on reproductive healthcare taking center stage, it’s more important than ever to be ready to tackle new challenges head-on. That’s why Cobalt has decided to part ways from NARAL Pro-Choice America. We will be hyper-focused on Colorado and the unique barriers to access that exist within our state. NARAL will continue to concentrate on federal policy and a myriad of other priorities in addition to abortion rights. Their work is crucial. However, given the uncertain political landscape, we believe our full energies are needed in Colorado to secure our state as a stronghold for reproductive healthcare and abortion access.

Biased policies, stigma, dangerous misinformation, and countless other barriers are standing in the way of your important health decisions. This is unacceptable. Cobalt believes nothing should stand between you and your health decisions. While our name has changed, our goals remain the same. We are still fiercely committed to being a champion for your reproductive autonomy.

We’re thrilled about this opportunity to create the local impact that Colorado urgently needs. We’re also proud to do this work under a new name - one that represents concepts that are core to our purpose of advancing abortion access and reproductive rights.

As a strong metal element, Cobalt is a fundamental component of the earth’s crust - the same way abortion access and reproductive rights are fundamental components of a healthcare system that works for each unique individual.

Cobalt is also the color of clear skies and seas, places we can move through unencumbered. Our goal is for every Coloradan to be able to make their healthcare decisions with that same freedom.
And the dark shade is deep and stable - something you can count on and trust. As a source for science-based, trustworthy information, Cobalt is committed to actualizing structures and policies that protect everyone’s reproductive autonomy.

Together, we’ll lay a strong foundation for a state that will defend your reproductive health and abortion access now and in the future.
Here’s how we’re doing it:

  • Cobalt will push for bold policies that advance reproductive freedom and rights, work to elect lawmakers who will actively fight for these critical rights, and oppose anyone who works against them.
  • We’ll hold our local officials and federal representatives loudly accountable for policies that impact access to abortion care and reproductive rights here in Colorado.
  • We’ll ensure everyone can benefit from access by providing resources to navigate financial and other barriers people may face through our robust Abortion Fund - the Women’s Freedom Fund.
  • We’ll serve as a regional resource for abortion access by connecting with those states that have increased barriers to care and become an ally in securing better access and more rights for them.
  • We’ll shape the public conversation around abortion and reproductive health so that it is supportive of every individual’s decision through the powerful combination of community-based stories and science-based research.

And here are some ways you can get involved with Cobalt:
Tell your story. Help others understand the unique needs and barriers of those who are seeking or providing reproductive healthcare.
Advocate with us. Join us at the Capitol, get involved in our election work, or participate in our other civic engagement efforts. Sign-up for our newsletter for upcoming opportunities.
Donate. Alleviate the financial burdens of those seeking abortion and other critical reproductive healthcare services.

Thank you for joining us on this journey, we’re glad you’re with us.