Assemblywoman Jean-Pierre Stands Against the Supreme Court Decision to Overturn Roe v. Wade

“Today is a dark day in American history. Years of struggle and progress have been thrown out the window in a single decision made by a right-wing Supreme Court that does not represent the views and values of our nation. A ruling that advanced the rights of women and provided bodily autonomy should never be up for debate. The right for Americans to make their own health care decisions should never be up for debate. The other side's lust for unchecked power and disregard for majority rule over the last few decades has driven us to this point – and will no doubt have long-lasting consequences. But while it was a decision we saw coming, that does not quell the anger and disappointment many of us now feel, or the fear of what’s to follow.

“Here in New York State, we’ve been preparing for this day and passed the Reproductive Health Act in 2019 to codify Roe v. Wade into state law. As a woman, making New York a safe haven for individuals across the country seeking reproductive care is of the utmost importance to me. As anti-choice states across the country begin to strip away the rights of women, New York will continue to safeguard human rights and protect individuals who come here for medical care.

“This Supreme Court decision will not only hurt millions of Americans, but it has also opened the door to the potential rollback of gay marriage, same-sex relationships and access to contraception. We cannot and will not compromise on human rights. While we allow ourselves to feel outraged and disheartened today, New York State will always be on the right side of history and remain a leader in the fight for equality and justice for all.”