Facts on the abortion referendum question, Circa 1972
Scope and Contents
In the late 1960s to early 1970s, several groups worked to reform abortion law in Michigan. A 1972 ballot initiative sought to legalize abortion in the state. It was voted down, but the Supreme Court decision on Roe v. Wade in 1973 legalized abortion in the United States.
Leading up to the 1972 ballot initiative, Dix worked to change the conversation in the media about abortion. Dix thought that the Grand Rapids Press showed news bias in their coverage of the issue, reflecting the conservative nature of the community.
After Roe v. Wade, Dix helped organize the New Clinic for Women, an abortion clinic serving a large portion of Michigan. Dix was involved with several organizations, including the West Michigan Abortion Reform Campaign, the West Michigan Council for the Study of Abortion, the Michigan Coordinating Committee for Abortion Law Reform and the West Michigan Pregnancy Termination Board.
His papers include letters with local clergy, lawyers, educators and doctors. In particular, he corresponded with Duncan Littlefair, Spike S. Martin, Veryl N. Meyers, Gerald Elliott and Werner Veit. At the state and national level, Jack M. Stack and Jimmye Kimmey were frequent correspondents. Dix also wrote many letters to Gerald R. Ford and received several replies. Also included are some materials on population control, including the West Michigan Chapter of Zero Population Growth (ZPG).
Dates
- Circa 1972
Creator
- From the Collection: Samuel M, Dix (Person)
Extent
From the Collection: 1 Linear Feet
Language of Materials
From the Collection: English
Repository Details
Part of the Grand Rapids History Center Repository
Grand Rapids Public Library
111 Library Street NE
Grand Rapids Michigan 49503 USA
616-988-5497
localhis@grpl.org