by Jessica, Pro-Choice North Carolina Campus Leader

A month ago, I hosted an event at UNC Chapel Hill, "Chipotle & Choice," which was a fun, food, and educational event around reproductive health, sex education, and anti-abortion center (AKA, “crisis pregnancy center”) awareness. I wanted to create an inclusive space where students enjoyed free Chipotle while also getting free contraceptives and engaging in open, non-judgmental conversations about topics that make many of us uncomfortable or are simply taboo.

The concept is simple: you take something that everyone loves (burritos) while providing people with something everyone deserves—access to honest, inclusive information about their bodies and reproductive choices. College students are often facing these issues on their own for the first time, and I wanted to be sure that learning about sexual health was not scary or stigmatized.

To my surprise and enthusiasm, around 50 students attended! Even better than I could have wished for! Some came mostly for free food (who doesn't like free Chipotle?), but many students stayed well beyond eating food and engaged in discussions that mattered. The atmosphere was relaxed, welcoming, laughter, curiosity, sharing stories, asking thoughtful questions, and learning from each other. Our discussions covered a wide range of topics: the importance of consent, how to access affordable contraception, and how to recognize the warning signs of anti-abortion centers that often spread misinformation. We talked about the gaps in sex education that leave many young people unprepared, and the need for better resources on campus and in communities. What stood out most to me was how eager students were to talk—it was clear that there’s a real hunger for spaces where people can be open, honest, and supported. I taught students a lot of information about safe sex and even how harmful anti-abortion centers are.