The creation of art has always had a place in the political canon: films, writing and art pieces, such as murals, often serve to send a message of support to social movements. Reproductive rights are one such issue that has been under attack in the United States after the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022, with many states instituting anti-abortion legislation.

The continued civil discourse that is promoted by events such as the Reproductive Rights Film Festival must continue in Ithaca to maintain a flourishing democratic tradition. The city of Ithaca also holds the title of an abortion sanctuary city, which was instituted in July of 2022.

Current research from Best Colleges journalist Jessica Bryant shows that 39% of prospective undergraduate students take their access to reproductive health services into account when choosing a college. Of pro-abortion students, 85% believe that colleges should assist students with accessing reproductive health care, and 70% of the anti-abortion students who were polled believe the same.

Ithaca College recently created barriers to accessing sexual health and wellness services at Hammond Health Center by instituting a copay that was previously waived. This provoked alarm on social media amongst students who were concerned about the availability of services. However, the college is now offering expanded services for which it would previously refer students to off-campus providers.

Access to reproductive healthcare in the city of Ithaca is especially important considering its transient student population, who may not have access to the same services in their home states. It is also important to expose students to a forum of artistic expression that is intertwined with political activism in many forms because this allows for the expansion of ideas across campus. The continued awareness of the student body regarding these issues must be prioritized.