National Urban League and CEO Call on Senate to Protect Roe v. Wade

Washington, D.C. (May 4, 2022) – Today, National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial issued the following statement in response to the leaked U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade:   

“The initial draft opinion by Justice Alito is both horrifying and unprecedented. For nearly 50 years, Roe v. Wade has allowed women the right to choose what to do with their bodies and when to start their families. If Roe is overturned, nearly half of states would likely outlaw abortion services, putting the millions of people in those states at risk of being without important health care services. Access to safe abortion services have proven over time to discourage women from exploring unsafe methods to end their pregnancies, especially women in underserved communities or who have experienced the trauma of abuse, rape, or incest.

“While this news is upsetting, we must keep in mind that the document released was only a draft, and not a final decision made by the U.S. Supreme Court. Patients who have made their appointments will still be able to receive the care and services they need. The Justices on the Supreme Court still have an opportunity to respect the rights of women to control their own bodies by reversing course and upholding Roe. And the Senate still has an opportunity to codify Roe by passing the Women’s Health Protection Act, which we call on it do without further delay.

“Until then, the National Urban League stands with all women who will be impacted should this leaked decision be made final. Abortion and other reproductive health services is health care, and it is imperative that we protect women’s access to health care and their freedom, regardless of personal beliefs or political party affiliation.”