naral

Naral most commonly refers to NARAL Pro-Choice America, a United States non-profit political advocacy organization that campaigns for abortion rights and reproductive freedom. The organization was founded in 1969 as the National Abortion Rights Action League and has since become a leading voice in the U.S. reproductive rights movement.

Structure and branding: It operates as a federation of national and state affiliates, with a lobbying arm (a 501(c)(4) organization) and a separate educational and policy foundation (a 501(c)(3)). In the early 2000s the group rebranded to NARAL Pro-Choice America while retaining the NARAL acronym.

Activities and focus: The group lobbies Congress and state legislatures, endorses political candidates, publishes policy reports and voter guides, and conducts public education campaigns on abortion access, contraception, and reproductive health. It also participates in legal advocacy and amicus briefs in court cases affecting reproductive rights.

Impact and reception: NARAL has been a major organizer in the abortion-rights movement and has faced criticism from opponents of abortion as well as praise from supporters of reproductive rights. Its influence varies with the political climate and it maintains multiple state affiliates to coordinate activism and outreach.