Spartanburg Women Take a Stand in Upcoming Election
Spartanburg, a city nestled in the heart of the Upstate, is known for its charming neighborhoods, vibrant community spirit, and beautiful outdoor spaces that make it a delightful place to live. As a lifelong resident of this wonderful city, I have cherished the memories of my childhood spent fishing, four-wheeling, and watching football surrounded by family and friends. Those carefree days infused me with confidence and hope for the future. However, as I grew older, I noticed a disconnect between my values and those of politicians far away in Washington, D.C., particularly my congressman, William Timmons.
Concerning Decisions from Far Away
Since taking office in 2018, Representative Timmons has made headlines for his controversial calls for a nationwide abortion ban. His decisions echo loudly here in Spartanburg, especially among women who seek control over their own reproductive health. Timmons has also voted against measures to assist our brave servicewomen in accessing necessary reproductive health care, and has even co-sponsored legislation that jeopardizes access to in vitro fertilization (IVF). This move threatens not only my personal goals but the dreams of countless families in our community who are looking to start or grow their own.
I can’t help but feel troubled over what these policies mean for Southern women like me. There is a creeping fear that looms large in my mind—what if I suffer complications during pregnancy? What if I need vital health care and can’t access it? The thought of being unable to provide a sibling for my future child is heart-wrenching, but so is the idea of leaving them motherless due to the lack of proper care.
Seeking Support from Family and Friends
As we approach the elections, I found myself re-evaluating the perspectives of the men in my life—my father, brothers, and friends. If they support Timmons, do they really believe they know better about my body and my choices than I do? The answer became clear when I saw my dad rally behind Kathryn Harvey, the Democratic candidate running to replace Timmons this November. My dad’s vocal support for Kathryn was more than just a personal endorsement; it represented a collective stand for what truly matters—protecting our rights and empowering our futures.
Empowering Southern Women
Kathryn Harvey’s campaign revolves around commonsense proposals designed to enhance our communities and tackle the issues that families face today. What sets her apart is that she believes in trusting Southern women to make decisions regarding their health care. This resonated deeply with me and gave me the renewed hope that perhaps we can change the narrative surrounding women’s health and reproductive rights.
My father’s dedication to holding his friends accountable for their voting choices was inspiring. He took the time to have tough conversations with them about why this election matters so much, especially for his daughter. I felt proud watching him stand up for what’s right, and I sent him a heartfelt message, thanking him for his unwavering support.
A Message to the Men of Spartanburg
As I reflect on my father’s efforts and the larger impact of this upcoming election, I want to reach out to the men of Spartanburg and Greenville. If you’re feeling uncertain about whom to support at the polls, just remember, your women are watching. Our mothers, sisters, wives, and daughters depend on you to stand up for their rights and their ability to make important choices for themselves and their families.
Please, when you cast your vote next month, do so with the awareness that each decision counts. Supporting a representative who will advocate for reproductive health care and defend our fundamental freedoms can lead to a brighter future for our children and families in Spartanburg. Let’s work towards protecting our rights together!
Lyndsey Atkins, a proud Upstate resident, reminds us that this election is more than just a political choice—it’s a commitment to the freedoms and futures of all Southern women.
