Today, Roe v. Wade was overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court.
This decision is an attack on millions of Americans, particularly women and members of TLGBTIAPQQ2S+ communities.
This decision is an attack on low-income women, Black and racialized women, victims of sexual assault, and millions more in the U.S. who have lost access to safe abortions where they live.
This decision is an attack on a person’s right to ownership over their own body.
This decision is an attack on democracy.
In the United States and across the globe, feminists have fought for centuries for reproductive rights. Finally, in 1973, Roe v. Wade made abortion a constitutional right in the US. It was a landmark ruling that moved the conversation forward for decriminalizing abortion in many countries; Canada included.
This is no small matter. It’s a matter of life and death for some, and it’s a matter of deep inequity and injustice – especially the most vulnerable who have few choices and little ability to travel out of state, or country, to access the abortion care they need.
While the vast majority of Canadians – 70 per cent – are pro-choice, we must continue to fight against forces who would limit or deny access to abortion here at home in Canada. Abortion rights were not won overnight. They were won because a powerful movement of people came together to fight for societal change. They were won because of the conviction that defending and protecting human rights matters.
Today, OPSEU/SEFPO stands in solidarity with our neighbours in the U.S. who have had their rights and democracy stolen. We share your sorrow, and we will rise up with you!
In solidarity,
JP Hornick, President
Laurie Nancekivell, First Vice-President/Treasurer
Dianne Clarabut, Chair, OPSEU/SEFPO Provincial Women’s Committee
Morgen Veres, Chair, OPSEU/SEFPO Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel