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Various Black lawmakers are urging the nation to see the 'devastating' impact Roe v. Wade’s overturn would have on communities of color.
On Monday (May 2), a leaked Supreme Court draft opinion revealed overturns of Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, both of which protect abortion rights.
Rep. Joyce Beatty, the chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus, said in a statement, “If, in fact, this opinion is issued, it will fundamentally change us as a nation.
Beatty continued, “Overturning Roe v. Wade will have disproportionately devastating impacts on communities of color, marginalized groups already facing discriminatory obstacles to health care, and will resonate globally. Elections have consequences.”
The Supreme Court said on Tuesday (May 3) that the leaked ruling was “authentic” but “does not represent a decision by the Court or the final position of any member on the issues of the case.” They are currently investigating the source of the leak, The Hill reports.
Rep. Maxine Walters said in a statement, “Is there any doubt that this majority right-wing Supreme Court is poised to finalize a decision that will be devastating to poor women, and minority women in particular?”
More representatives echoed Walter’s concern about the disproportionate impact the overturn would have on women of color.
Rep. Robin Kelly wrote in a statement, “Overturning Roe v. Wade will set women’s rights back generations.” Kelly noted, “The impact of this unjust decision will be felt especially by Black women, low-income women, and rural communities.”
Rep. Fredrica Wilson said, “Make no mistake, this ruling will not stop abortions, it will only put women — particularly Black and low-income women — at unspeakable risk and further limit the opportunities available to women of color, adversely affecting the lives of millions for generations to come.”
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