Tips for Holiday Dinner Conversations

The holiday season is a time for connection—but for many, it can also bring challenging conversations, especially about topics like reproductive rights and abortion access. At Lift Louisiana, we want to empower you with tools to stay informed, have meaningful discussions, and prioritize safety for yourself and others.

Here’s our Holiday Reproductive Rights Tip List to guide you this season:

1. Stay Informed

   1. Know the Facts: Brush up on current laws and policies affecting reproductive health and abortion access in Louisiana. Having accurate, up-to-date information helps correct misconceptions.

   2. Share Trusted Resources: Direct friends and family to reputable sources, such as Lift Louisiana’s resources page.

2. Set Boundaries

   1. Permit Yourself to Opt Out: Not every conversation is productive or worth your energy. It’s okay to decline discussing controversial topics if it feels unsafe or overwhelming.

   2. Use a Conversation Pivot: A phrase like, “I hear this is important to you, but let’s table this for now,” can help redirect focus.

3. Center Compassion

   1. Lead with Empathy: Many people are misinformed or struggling to understand complex issues. Sharing personal stories or explaining why reproductive justice matters to you can open hearts and minds.

   2. Ask Questions: Sometimes, open-ended questions like, “What concerns you most about this topic?” can foster dialogue instead of division.

4. Take Care of Yourself 

   1. Recognize Emotional Labor: Advocacy can be exhausting. Make time to recharge with activities and people that nurture you.

   2. Support Others: Support those who may feel isolated or judged for their views.