What is happening?
The Supreme Court is considering overturning Roe v. Wade, one of the leading cases supporting abortion rights. Roe v. Wade says that the U.S. Constitution protects a women’s right to get an abortion without excessive government restrictions through the core constitutional principles of privacy and liberty.
Why is it a big deal?
Overturning Roe v. Wade would instead allow each state to determine how legal they make abortions. Already it can be seen that 26 states will be trying to ban abortions if Roe v Wade is undone. States that choose to keep abortions legal will likely see an influx of out of state patients. Some states, for example California, are introducing legalization to help support and cover costs of out-of-state residents who came for an abortion. In other states, abortion clinics are planning ahead for a potential increase in patients.
Why should you care?
Overturning Roe v. Wade isn’t a good option for anybody. Roe v. Wade will not increase or decrease the amount of abortions. People will still get abortions regardless of if a ban is passed. According to the World Health Organization 23,000 women die from unsafe abortions each year. What Roe v. Wade will do is determine if that number goes up or down. A recent study estimated that banning abortion could lead to a 21 percent increase in pregnancy-related deaths. This risk would increase 33 percent in specifically Black women. Instead of pregnant women deciding to keep their baby, it will instead force them to look for riskier alternatives.
The risk is not only with dangerous abortions. Some people get abortions because of a health condition where having a baby could put both the parent and the child at risk. Reducing the availability of abortions will only hurt these mothers.
What can you do to help?
Donate to organizations like Planned Parenthood, the Afiya Center or the Texas Equal Access Fund
Spread awareness. Share this article with your family and friends!
