Recorded Webinar

How Companies Are Engaging With Reproductive Rights Issues In The Texas “Sue Thy Neighbor” Law Era

How Companies Are Engaging With Reproductive Rights Issues In The Texas “Sue Thy Neighbor” Law Era

October 28, 2021

Planned parenthood

This year, more state abortion restrictions will go into effect than in any year since Roe v. Wade was decided in 1973. Foremost among them, on September 1, Texas Senate Bill 8 (S.B. 8) banned abortion after six weeks. The law allows a neighbor, abusive partner, or even a stranger from out of state to sue anyone who helps someone get an abortion after six weeks — with a $10,000 financial bounty for each successful claim.

S.B. 8 has emboldened lawmakers to introduce copycat laws and on December 1, the Supreme Court will begin hearing arguments on a Mississippi case that threatens the precedent set by Roe v. Wade.

Since September 1, there have been a wide range of corporate reactions on this issue. Planned Parenthood Federation of America SVP of Communications and Culture Melanie Newman, tees up the discussion by providing an analysis of the issue and corporate responses. From there, OKCupid Global Chief Marketing Officer Melissa Hobley and The Body Shop Activism Manager, North America Kasha Huk share why and how they have stepped up.

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Melissa Hobley

Global Chief Marketing Officer, OkCupid

Melissa Hobley has a reputation for marrying powerful brand marketing with data-driven digital advertising, in bold and breakthrough ways that jumpstart brands and create measurable value. Currently, Melissa is the Global Chief Marketing Officer of OkCupid, one of the largest dating apps in the world. Under her direction, OkCupid has become famous for its message of inclusion and affirmation, winning numerous awards for its breakthrough social campaigns throughout the years.

Kasha Huk

Activism Manager, North America, The Body Shop

Kasha leads activism for North America at The Body Shop, a global beauty brand. The focus of her work over the past few years has been in addressing social, economic and environmental justice issues through a systems-change perspective. Most recently, she has been engaging to rethink the role of business in supporting equity outcomes, aligned with The Body Shop’s mission to fight for a fairer and more beautiful world.

Melanie Newman

Senior VP of Communications and Culture, Planned Parenthood Federation of America

Melanie Newman is the Senior Vice President of Communications and Culture at the Planned Parenthood Federation of America and the Planned Parenthood Action Fund. In this role, she oversees the Media, Digital Content and Campaigns, and Brand and Culture teams. Together, these teams help shape awareness of the organization’s programs, services, activities, and brand.