By: Cat Duffy
Executive Summary
The Consent for Sterilization policy has provided much-needed protection against coercive sterilization. The United States has an ugly history of forcibly sterilizing low-income people. BIPOC communities, immigrants, people in detention facilities, and people with disabilities were especially targeted to advance eugenics principles. In comments to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the National Health Law Program, together with 58 health and advocacy organizations, reiterated the importance of the form in combating coercive sterilization practices. The letter also provides recommendations to specific recommendations to improve clarity and enhance the quality and utility of the information collected through the Form.
