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Where Women Aren’t As Free
United States
by Alyssa Meadows
Published January 2025
“Where Women Aren’t As Free” chronicles the continuing battle over women's bodily autonomy and the erosion of abortion rights across the United States.
The project began in October 2021, initially a focused critique of the blossoming inequality and inequity forced on Texan women after the passage of the 2021 Senate Bill 8 (also known as the Texas Heartbeat Act) which banned abortion in Texas after the detection of a fetal heartbeat. However, the project quickly expanded and grew to encompass the entirety of the United States after the repeal of Roe v. Wade in June 2022, as more states have continued to adopt anti-choice policies in the aftermath of abortion and bodily autonomy rights no longer being federally protected.
Alyssa Meadows
I grew up in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania and studied photography at the University of Miami and Penn State University. Photography has been a deep-seated passion for years and a supremely rewarding endeavor. My body of work predominantly explores photojournalism, documentary, and reportage, often focusing on political issues ranging from environmental concerns to the ramifications of rampant sexism in our society. If I don't have my camera in hand, it's most likely because I'm hiking, kayaking, or producing documentary films.
My experience in the photographic industry is varied and focused heavily on strengthening the community. I was previously the Vice President of the ASMP-NY Board, and served on the board for six years. During that time, I revitalized the Young Photographers Alliance summer mentorship program. I also previously freelanced as a photo editor for Shutterstock and was formerly a photo editor with People Magazine.
Whether I’m working on personal projects, bringing a client's vision to life, or developing behind-the-scenes and promotional materials for films, having my camera in hand is a natural extension of self. I aim to capture critical moments, share important stories, and explore life's greatest adventures, while lending inspiration to others.