Reports of nonconsensual surgeries on pregnant women — including Black women in active labor — expose a dangerous crisis in patient rights

For immediate release April 17 by president@flnow.org

Orlando, FL — April 2026 — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is calling for urgent state and federal intervention following alarming reports that Florida hospitals have subjected pregnant women — including Black women — to nonconsensual Cesarean sections, in some cases using the courts to override a patient’s refusal while she was in active labor.

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“Florida NOW (FL NOW) joins communities across Florida in mourning the domestic violence death of Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen, a visionary leader, environmental justice advocate, and the first Black woman elected to the Coral Springs City Commission,” said Julie Kent, President of FL NOW. “Her sudden loss, which is being investigated as a homicide, leaves a profound void in the fight for equity, sustainability, and community‑centered governance.”

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Florida is emerging as one of the strongest centers of participation in the nationwide No Kings movement, with peaceful demonstrations growing in size, energy, and diversity across the state. From Miami to Jacksonville, Floridians are uniting to affirm a simple, shared belief: democracy thrives when people have a voice — and NO ONE should hold unchecked power.

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