In 1987, in a frontal challenge to Section 251 of the Criminal Code, the B.C. Coalition for Abortion Clinics approved a motion to establish a free-standing abortion clinic in Vancouver, and to work for reproductive health centres, funded by MSP, throughout the province. This action rose from a powerful belief that a woman is the best judge of whether an abortion is the right response to her pregnancy, and that traditional medical care is inadequate for women individually and collectively.

When Section 251 was overturned by the Supreme Court on January 28, 1988, the Coalition continued to pursue our goal of founding a clinic sensitive to women's need for control over their reproductive lives and accountable to the women's movement. Our clinic would be guided by a feminist ethic: a deep appreciation for the complexity of women's life experience and commitment to a feminist model of participation, empowerment, and teamwork in service delivery and in working relationships within the clinic.

In the five years since it opened, the clinic has flourished. It has established policies and procedures for client care, clinic operation, and personnel matters in accord with the philosophical tenets of the Society, acquired a Charitable Tax Number, and achieved the goal of government funding so that women no longer have to pay for the care they receive in the clinic.

Everywoman s Health Centre is a triumph for the Women's movement--a treasure of and for women. Counselling, education on reproductive self-care, and client-focused abortions under local anaesthesia have gained it a reputation is a high quality service within the province and beyond. The clinic has demonstrated that feminist care which empowers women is both feasible and economical.

We can all share the deep satisfaction of having founded a truly woman-centred health care service. But what of our long-term goal? Should we be content to have created a small, unique place of safety for women within the boundaries of the medical establishment? Or is it now time to take up the challenge of dismantling the old models and making connections with others in the health care system and the community who share the vision that inspired us at the start?

It will take energy and effort if we are to remain in the forefront of the struggle for a new model of women's health care.

EHC is our cIinic, a symbol of the health and strength of the women's movement. It is our connection with women's needs and dreams. It can also the the starting point of a renewed struggle to put women's reproductive health back where it belongs---in our own hands.

IT IS OUR CHOICE. We can comply with the status quo, or we can "Run With the Wolves". United, we can go forward to challenge compliance.

We ask for your help and support in charting the future.

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