On January 22, 1973 the U.S. Supreme Court confirmed a woman’s right to choose in the Landmark ruling Roe v Wade. Thanks to Roe millions of women across the country could now access vital healthcare and medical services safely. It set a legal precedent that affected more than 30 other Supreme Court cases. 

On June 24, 2022 the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe, dismantling 50 years of legal protection for women. 

The ruling sparked outrage across the nation. Thousands marched in protest against the ruling. Molly Smith, artistic director of Arena Stage, was also moved to action. She issued a call to playwrights, artists, and individuals to share their experiences. Many responded. These responses turned into My Body No Choice. My Body No Choice then spread beyond our stage, as we asked for submissions from women, trans, and non-binary individuals from all over the United States to share their stories about choices and their bodies. These are their stories. 

We thank Lee Cataluna, Dael Orlandersmith, Sarah Ruhl, Lisa Loomer, V (formerly Eve Ensler), Fatima Dyfan, Mary Hall Surface, and “Anonymous” for sharing their stories on our stages. And we thank Nicole Burton, Sophia, Laura, Debbie Lee, Julie, and Georgia for sharing their stories online and in our lobby.