(6/28/22) On Friday, June 24th, the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade (a landmark 1973 ruling), thus declaring that a Constitutional right to abortion no longer exists.
We understand this decision may affect our community. We affirm your feelings and spectrum of emotions regarding this decision and stand with you in solidarity as we collectively and individually process the fear, confusion, and ramifications of this decision.
What does this mean?
This decision means that abortion rights and restrictions will now solely be in the hands of each state. Presently, nearly 50% of states have or will in the near future pass laws that will ban abortion. We acknowledge that this decision will disproportionally and profoundly impact many of us, especially Black, brown, LGBTQ+, and disabled people across the country.
In Maryland
In 1991, the Maryland State Legislature protected the right to abortion within the state, and in April, a Maryland law was passed expanding access. It is yet to be seen how this decision will impact Maryland’s reproductive healthcare as folks from across the country turn to MD for access.
The Future
In his Roe v. Wade decision, Justice Thomas wrote how landmark cases establishing the right to contraceptives, the right to engage in private sexual acts, and marriage equality [Griswold vs. Connecticut, Lawrence vs. Texas, Obergefell vs. Hodges] “were demonstrably erroneous decisions.”
These writings and the concerning future they point to may illicit emotions of fear, panic, anger, sadness, rage - and we stand with you in experiencing these reactions.
Chase Brexton will continue to support our staff, patients, and greater community in advancing health equity and the right to make your own decisions regarding healthcare and reproduction.
To learn more please visit the resources below.
Know Your Rights: Reproductive Health Care | HHS.gov
19-1392 Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (06/24/2022) (supremecourt.gov)
