SXSW joins fight against Texas abortion bills: 'We are appalled'

[TexasTowelie]

In addition to supporting the women's march, SXSW will make donations to Planned Parenthood, the Lilith Fund, and Fair Fight.


Organizers behind the annual SXSW conference in Austin, Texas, are speaking out against restrictive abortion bills rolled out by state leadership this month.

Just ahead of this Saturday’s National Women’s March in support of reproductive rights, the conference is pledging to stay in its home city and fight alongside the dedicated blue pocket of Austin.

“SXSW stands against discriminatory laws and unequivocally supports civil rights for all persons, everywhere,” a Thursday statement from SXSW read. “As residents of Texas we are appalled at the passing of both SB 4 and SB 8, the most restrictive state abortion bills in the nation, along with SB 1, which deliberately disenfranchises voters.”

The bills in question, which incensed Hollywood weeks ago, open doors to civil prosecution for any party aiding in an abortion in Texas. The legislation is seen as a bellwether in overturning the landmark Roe v. Wade case.

Read more: https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/culture/article/SXSW-Texas-Abortion-Bills-planned-parenthood-16499610.php

[Susan Calvin]

1. Well, I don't think much of Austin or this fest,

But if they influence other people, which I'm sure they do, good.

[TexasTowelie]

2. It was an okay festival when they were showcasing local and even statewide bands,

but they expanded and it also became too expensive for most people to attend. Then it became a celebrity attraction about ten years ago and really went downhill.